vCRANO LODCE<*UNITEO STATES, OE TtiElNDEPENOENT ORDER 6F./J' tl O T O 1 O I O Bee of the Grand Sire WASHINGTON, D. C., .TwZy 30, 1871. MESSRS. Moss & Co. Philadelphia. GENTLEMEN : I acknowledge, with pleasure, the receipt of your letter, together with a copy of "The Odd-Fellows' Text-Book and Manual," for which accept my sincere thanks. I cannot with any degree of propriety, as Grand Sire, endorse the "Manual and Text- Book," or any other work devoted to the interests of the Order. But I can, and do say, that I am, and ever have been since my connection with the Order, in favor of all publications designed to throw light upon the subject of Odd-Fellowship, and to eluci- date its principles. When the " Text-Book and Manual " is thor- oughly revised by our distinguished Brother Bertram, I am well satisfied that it will present to the Old as well as the Young Odd- Fellow, and to all who may make it a study a valuable book of reference, containing much useful and reliable information touch- ing the Origin of the Order, its objects, the duty of the Officers and Members of Lodges and Encampments, and other matters with which Odd-Fellows, particularly, should be familiar. I think every member of the Order should be in possession of a Manual. YONKERS, N. Y., June 13, 1807- MESSRS. Moss & Co., Philadelphia. GENT.: I thankfully acknowledge the receipt from you of a beautiful bound copy of the "Odd Fellows' Text-Book and Manual." It is a work that every working member of the Order should be in possession of, and especially the younger members, as they can find more useful and instructive knowledge in regard to their duties, as members, or as officers of their Lodges, than in any other work that has come under my observation in a num- ber of years. I trust, gentlemen, that the sale of this work may be large, and that you may be amply rewarded for your efforts to supply the Order with a good book, and believe me FORTIETH CONGRESS U. S. oj; WASHINGTON, D. C., July 8th, 1867. DEAR SIRS : Arriving here a few days ago, I found awaiting me the beautifully bound copy of your Odd-Fellows' Text-Book and Manual, Revised Edition of 1867. Some twelve or fifteen years have elapsed since I read your former edition, and I spent two evenings last week in reading it again in its present improved and attractive form. Interesting and instructive as it is, so worthy a companion of our noble ritual, and so elegantly embel- lished, it will be an ornament to every Odd-Fellow's Library, and I trust will be found in thousands of them. Truly and fraternally yours, To Messrs. Moss & Co., SCHUYLER COLFAX. Philadelphia. New Revised and Enlarged Edition, 1878. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK AND MANUAL. AN ELUCIDATION OF THE THEOEY OF ODD-FELLOWSHIP; EMBRACING A DETAIL OF THE ORDER IN ALL ITS BRANCHES; WITH FORMS, CEREMONIES, FUNERAL SERVICE, AND ODES WITH MUSIC, FOR EVERY OCCASION, AND A MANUAL OF PRACTICE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF OFFICERS AND LODGES, TOGETHER WITH AN ALPHABETICAL TABLE OF PROPER BIBLICAL NAMES AND THEIR SIGNIFICATION. BY PASCHAL DONALDSON, 0. D. GRAND-MASTER OF THE R. W. GRAND LODGE OF NEW YORK. REVISED AND CORRECTED BY SAMUEL F. GWINNEE, P.G.M., P.G.R., MEMBER OF NOCKAMlXON LODGE, NO. 536, OF PENNA. ni* jrlegani PHILADELPHIA: MOSS & COMPANY. 1878. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1877, by MOSS A COMPANY, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. HENRY B. ASHMEAD, PRINTER, PHILADELPHIA. STACK ANNEX HS PUBLISHERS' ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE SEVENTEENTH EDITION. IT is with feelings of real pleasure that the Publishers of the Odd-Fellows' Text-Book announce a Seven- teenth Edition which has been issued in response to an imperative demand from all parts of the country. Wherever the volume has gone, it has met with warm appreciation from the members of the great and be- neficent Order, the principles and practice of which it endeavors to represent. That the work has within its pages information on all that is essential, with much that is most valuable, to the Odd-Fellow, is abundantly attested by the gratifying letters received by the Pub- lishers from men representing every degree of Odd- Fellowship. PREFACE TO THE SEVENTEENTH EDITION. THE approbation the " Odd-Fellows' Text-Book " has received from the great fraternity for whom it was prepared, has been proved by the rapid and large sale of the previous editions of the work, a? well as by the commendation of many distinguished members of the Order. The numerous changes rendered necessary by the legislation of the Grand Lodge of the United States have been carefully made in the present volume, and the Publishers have the satisfaction of believing that they again offer to the Order the most perfect work on Odd- Fellowship to be found at the present time. In the various revisions which changes in the organic laws have made necessary, the original design of the Author has been carefully preserved, by rendering the work in all its parts useful and clear to every member of the Order, yet so inge- niously blended with the text, that it may be profit- ably read by every member of the family circle, as a work of great interest, and fraught with good coun- sel in all the duties of life. PHILADELPHIA, January 1878. CONTENTS. PAGE INTRODUCTION 6 Schuyler Colfax, author of the Degree of Rebekah 9 HISTORY AND TENDENCY OF ODD-FELLOWSHIP 13 CHAPTER I. General Remarks Our Mysteries Origin of the Order History Antiquity 13 CHAPTER II. Origin of the Order in America 26 CHAPTER III. Principles and Tendency of Odd-Fellowship 39 The Organization of Odd-Fellowship 49 A Word to the Neophyte 54 The Subordinate Lodge 55 Order of Business 62 Rules of Order for Subordinate Lodges 62 THE OFFICERS OF A LODGE 66 The Noble-Grand 66 The Vice-Grand 69 The Secretary 70 The Assistant Secretary 72 The Treasurer 73 The Conductor 74 The Warden The Guardians 75 The Supporters The Chaplain The Junior P. G 76 The Gavel..... 77 THE COMMITTEES 77 Of Relief 77 Of Investigation Of Finance 80 On Claims Of Trustees 81 Of Investigation and Trials 82 Payment of Dues 83 Attendance at the Lodge ; 85 Behavior in the Lodge 86 Behavior out of the Lodge 87 Duty of one Member toward Another 88 Charity should distinguish Odd-Fellows 92 Proposal of Candidates 96 Discipline of Odd-Fellowship 99 Principles of Odd-Fellowship 103 Opening and Closing a Lodge 108 Degrees and Degree Lodges Ill Past-official Degrees, etc 113 Subordinate Encampments 114 GRAND LODGES AND GRAND ENCAMPMENTS 117 Grand Lodges 119 Grand Encampments 123 The Grand Lodge of the United States 126 Organization of Lodges, etc., and Installation of Officers 131 An Odd-Fellow's Counsel: in Nine Chapters 134 3 4 CONTENTS. PACE An Gild-Fellow's Counsel: concluded 179 Secrecy I'.'l THE EMBLKMS OF THE ORDER lt'9 Of the Initiatory Degree IS) it Of the White Degree 201 Of the Covenant Degree Of the Royal-Blue Degree 202 Of the Degree of Remembrance Of the Scnrlet Degree 204 Of the Patriarchal Degree Of the Golden-Rule Degree.... 206 Of the Royal Purple Degree 207 THF. JKWKI.S AND REGALIA OF THF. ORDKR 2"S Of the Grand Lodge of the United Smt- -s 203 Of a State Grand Lodge 2n the sixth century, by King Henry, in Portugal. In the twelfth century it was established in France ; and afterward by John de Neville in England, attended by five knights from France, who formed a " Loyal Grand Lodge of Honor" in London, which remained until the eighteenth century (in the reign of George III.), when a part of them began to form themselves into a Union ;* and a portion of these remain up to this day. The Lodges which have arisen from these several or- ganizations are numerous throughout the world, and have been called, at different periods, by the names of the " Loyal Ancient Odd-Fellows" the " Union Odd- Fellows" and the " Manchester Unity Odd-Fellows" This last is of more recent date, and there is no doubt of its emanation from the original sources above-named. Its first introduction into Manchester was about the year 1800, by a few individuals from the " Union " in London, who formed themselves into a Lodge, and continued in connection with the "Union" Order for a time, when some differences caused a separation, and the Association declared itself independent; hence we now have the " Independent Order of Odd-Fellows." They have kept their word "independent" they have been since this " difference :" and they have progressed in number, in talent, and in respectability ; at this moment the banner of Odd-Fellowship proudly floats in many a clime, waving over the ruins of pov- It is due to truth and candor to remark, that there is no doubt the earlier Lodges of Odd-Fellows in England were of a coniivud character. 20 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. erty and sadness. The genius of benevolence may be seen pointing the way where sorrow may be solaced, and poverty ameliorated. Observe the immense num- ber of Odd-Fellows in Great Britain, in the United States, in Holland, Germany, Spain, and even in New South Wales, Gibraltar, and Malta : in short, from the burning rays of the torrid to the cheerless sky of the frigid zone, and in " the islands of the seas," an Odd-Fellow may find a brother. Witness the Frater- nity in California, as an example of the beneficent pur- poses of the Odd-Fellows. What have they not done for the poor, the friendless, the sick, and the dis- tressed ? How many, who have gone hence with high hopes and fair prospects who expected to bring from the "land of promise" the golden substance that was, in their own hopeful imagination, to make them for ever invulnerable (pecuniarily) to the numerous "ills that flesh is heir to," but had fallen, half-way between their starting-point and their goal have been raised from wretchedness by the kindly offices and sym- pathy of the Odd-Fellow, and restored to the home which they abandoned for what proved, to them, truly an ignis fatuns ! Yet these are by no means solitary examples. The history of Odd-Fellowship is full of similar acts. But, with all due respect for Brother COOPER'S in- teresting statement, concerning the origin of the Order, we must be permitted, to remark, that, while we will not deny its authenticity, we have very little concern in regard to the antiquity of Odd -Fellowship. We are for principles, rather than dates, and more disposed to inquire what the Order is than when it originated. There is a disposition in many minds to view with a THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 21 kind of sacredness that which bears the stamp of an- tiquity. Forgetting that " The Old yields always to the New," they often honor and revere systems and institutions, simply because they are " ancient." We are free to say even though the assertion may subject us to the charge of heterodoxy that in our view Odd-Fellow- ship would be no better, as a Fraternity simply, if it were as old as the bow of heaven, or the everlasting hills. We contend that the principles on which it is founded, the objects it has in view, and the good influ- ences that it exerts among men, are matters much more important than its " venerable age." Why should we glorify the past ? Let us for a moment consider this matter. What has man accomplished in modern days, which man in ancient times never dreamed of attempt- ing ! There is no more of the subtle, indefinable light now than there was when the Almighty created it ; but neither the wise Babel-builders, nor Diana's craftsmen, nor the Grecian or Roman philosophers and sages, understood, as Newton did, how to analyze, dissect, and subdivide it, as the anatomist divides his subject. The materials that compose the deadly gunpowder all lay in their secret chambers, when Samson slew his thousands with the jaw-bone, and Shamgar put to death six hundred men in a day with an ox-goad ; yet not until the fourteenth century of the Christian era was it sent out, by Schwartz, of Germany, in its rear and blasting, to terrify and destroy. Water would fly off in steam, and was as capable of generating this po- tent agent in the days of the battering-rams, and the 22 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. sluggish Grecian ships, as it is at the present time ; but it was left for Watt, and Fitch, and Fulton, to " give it the wings of the wind and the energies of Jupiter." From the day that clouds, mingled with fire and smoke, rolled in fleecy volumes over Sinai's summit, the light- nings have shattered the old trees of the forest, and the thunders uttered their voices of desolation over the ruins; yet nearly 1800 years of the Christian dispen- sation had passed away, when Franklin's genius, supe- rior in this respect to the most brilliant minds that had preceded his, gave identity and character to electricity, and subjected the incomprehensible fluid to his will. The principle by which the electric essence might be made the medium of thought and intelligence has ever existed ; yet among all the wise, and learned, and sci- entific of the ancients, there was no MORSE to apply it. The art of printing, a knowledge of which would have been of infinite value and importance to the book- makers of the ancient world, was not discovered by the " wise men of old ;" but, by an humble German, as late as the fifteenth century. Odd-Fellowship, as an operative, individual com- pact, may be " ancient ;" it may claim with some cer- tainty to have originated in the palmy days of old Rome ; but there is positive evidence that its princi- ples itsmafericl have existed from time immemo- rial. It was the spirit of our system which went up in acceptable incense from the altar of righteous Abel ; which warned the ungodly and vile citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah ; which went with Abraham into the wilderness, among the wretchedly ignorant and idola- trous heathen, and caused him there to re-ar his al- tar of true patriarchal piety and genuine worship THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 23 which led him to the mountain, wnere the wood and fire were prepared to sacrifice his only son ; and as he raised the shining death-knife to plunge it into the heart of his boy his beloved the angel whose soft tones came from the throne, crying " Forbear !" also recorded one of the features of this Order, Fidelity, What we would contend for is principle, not a name , truth, rather than antiquity ; original greatness, rather than ancient identity. If we affirm, therefore, that Odd-Fellowship as a compact should receive little credit for antiquity, we are always ready to elucidate the fact, that its essence, its principles and power, are coeval and coexistent with the race of Adam. We can see, in the mellow tints of the rainbow that the Almighty bended in the heavens, that principle which gives our Institution one of the gems in its crown Faithfulness to a solemn promise. We can hear, in the thunders that shook Sinai, the voice of TRUTH, as its glowing fire flashed in the clouds that lowered about that monument of the Divine presence and power. In the ephod, and the breastplate, and the curious girdle, spoken of in Scripture, we can see the symbols of that benevolence and friendship, which, even in a barba- rous and iron age, were delegated to individuals, that the name and excellence of the everlasting God might be declared and revered, and mankind might take their degrees in moral and intellectual advancement. We can see, in the two tablets of stone, that were carried " early in the morning" to the mount, when the Lord descended in the cloud, and the covenant with Israel was made, the signs and tokens of a moral power be- fore which the altars and images of paganism crumbled, nod light and reflection shed their healing influence 24 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT- BOOK. amid the unhallowed groves of the unsanctified ters. We can trace, in the friendship of David and Jonathan, an affection that made them lovely in their lives, and that united them in death a love that made tin arrow a tongue to speak, when the murderer whetted his death-knife. Do men inquire how "oW Odd-Fellowship is ? We refer them to the smoking incense that rose from the altar of righteous Abel ; to the dove, as it bore to the ark, that stood above the ruin of a world, the olive-leaf; to old Noah, amid his vine-clad farm, surrounded by the cattle on a thousand hills ; to Caleb and Joshua, as they stood by the heap of stones, reared up as an everlasting symbol to the generations to come, of Friendship, Love, and Truth , TO Jonathan and David, as they stood by the stono Esel, where, in the touching language of Scripture, " David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself thre^. times : and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded." We assert, therefore, of Odd-Fellowship, that its materials its life-blood, and heat, and soul are as old as the first Sabbath morning as old as the "sol- emn and binding obligation" that united the beating hearts of the first pair in the garden of Eden, when " angels were the witnesses, and God the priest." The patriarch Lot, surrounded by a vicious race who had corrupted the earth, seemed to be the only good man in that dense and abominable mass of wickedness to unfurl the banner on whose folds were written " Fi- delity," and the motto, " In God we trust." Daniel, and Jeremiah, and Job, with others, are examples which demonstrate the nature of those mora 1 principle 1 ; THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 25 that constitute Odd-Fellowship. As far back in the annals of the past as Cyrus, the Persian king, we can see traces of that spirit, which, superior to the contami- nating influences of selfishness, and lust, and pride, rises to the dignity of the man and the magnanimity of the philanthropist. Greece, too, had her Lycurgus, to hurl the shafts of his firmness and humanity against the miscreant demagogue, and to revolutionize the affairs of his waning country. And when Solon, like some appointed angel who can calm the storm and stay the thunders, set his foot on the code of Draco, his generation comparatively became "social and hu- mane;" and Cruelty for a time lost its " travelling- ca.rd," and Revenge had no " password." Thus we might follow the history of man from one age to another down to the present day, and show that, in the darkest periods, what men most desire, "Light" what they love, "Virtue" what they ought to practise, " Be- nerolence" what is most conducive to peace and hap- piness, " Truth," have all had their warm advocates and supporters. But we have said enough on this subject. We must, however, in conclusion, repeat the foi'cwing sentiment, which is (or should be) familiar to us all : " We are Odd-Fellows, and Odd-Fellows ONLY, when we speak and act like honest men." If we practise the precepts of our Order, we must be good men ; and, whether we be ridiculed or com- mended, we shall ever have the consolation to know that we are preserving the best treasures of the past goodness, fidelity, and friendship. Yet we must per- mit this "past" to repose upon its own merits. As in ordinary life, no man should entirely depend on the opinions and experience of his predecessors, so this 26 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Fraternity of ours (which, in a very important view may be esteemed as fixed on what may be called a " one idea," or individual basis) should not found its importance and excellence on its ability to prove that it has existed for a longer period than circumstances, or proofs of the facts, sure and unequivocal, will admit. In all conditions of life, and among all classes of men, honesty is invariably " the best policy." And Odd- Fellows, more than all other men, should be honest. But we have detained the reader quite " time enough" and we shall therefore now endeavor to show the true origin of the Order of Odd-Fellows in America, and its tendency. This we shall do honestly and sin- cerely, and will tell only what is really the truth truth which may be corroborated by testimony that must be regarded as invulnerable. CHAPTER II. ORIGIN OF THE ORDER IN AMERICA. THE actual commencement of Odd-Fellowship in America was in 1806. This, we are aware, has been disputed by some who are interested in dating its ori- gin here at a later period ; but the facts are too clearly proven to admit of any successful controversy. It will appear from the following documents, for the genuine- ness of which we pledge our veracity as a faithful his- torian, that the first Lodge was opened in the oll THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 27 'Shakspere House," or tavern, in Fair street, now Fulton, No. 135, between Nassau street and Broad- way, New York, on the twenty-third of December, 1806. The institution did not, however, prosper in the hands of the worthy and now venerable brethren who were then concerned in it. Doubtless, they ex- erted their utmost efforts to establish the I. O. of O. F. on a firm basis ; but the soil, at that day, was uncon- genial to its growth ; and the honor of its establishment in the New World was to fall upon other and success- ful pioneers. Yet the New York brethren are entitled to credit for their efforts in this cause ; and it should be remembered that their failure was the result of in- surmountable difficulties. We are indebted to P. G. DOWNING, of Columbia Lodge, No. 1, New York, for the following documents : 44 This is to certify that I, William E. Chambers, together with Solomon Chambers, John C. Chambers, William West- phall, and William Twaites, did meet together, in the fall of ] 80G, for the purpose of making inquiry and collecting together all Odd-Fellows, for the purpose of establishing a Lodge ; and, after advertising for several weeks, we found just enough to fill all offices, and the following are the names of the first five that met together: Solomon Chambers, John C. Chambers, William E. Chambers, William Westphall, and William Twaites, come- dian : and after we had collected the remainder, and in fact all we could, we then concluded to raise and form a Lodge, as three of us had passed the chair in the old country. We then made up our minds to establish a Lodge at the house of Thomas Hodg- kinson, known as the * Shakspere Tavern,' in Fair street, now 135 Fulton street, between Broadway and Nassau street, on the left hand from Broadway. This house was frequented by the- atrical gentlemen : therefore we gave it that name, and called it the 'Shakspere Grand Lodge of Odd-Fellows;' and, believ- ing that there was no other Lodge in the country, we set our shoulders to thp wheel, and all, like good Odd-Fellows, went to 28 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. work in making what we could toward it. So we persevered, tompleted our work, and had as handsome a Lodge-room as any in the city now. After that we went to work and appointed our officers, in the following order : Solomon Chambers, M. N. G. : John C. Chambers, V. G. ; William E. Chambers, R. H. S. to M. N. G. ; Richard Ford, L. H. S. to M. N. G. ; Benjamin Warry, R. II. S. to V. G. ; James Chesterman, L. H. S. to V. G. ; William Westphall, Warden ; William Helass, Guar- dian ; and J. D. Myers, Secretary. Previous to J. D. Myers being a member, William Twaites acted as Secretary, and we initiated J. D. Myers, who was afterward our regular Secreta- ry ; then we initiated our worthy host, and considered our work done. "The night we opened our Lodge we received propositions for about fifteen members. This was good encouragement, and it caused us to labor cheerfully, and we continued our labors and improvements in such a manner, that, during the first quarter, we had over eighty good and faithful Odd-Fellows ; and the Lodge continued in a flourishing state for a long time at the above house, where myself and my brother and father all passed the chairs. After some time, the Lodge was removed to the ' Trafalgar House,' in Gold street, kept by Brother Edgarly, as we had not sufficient room where it was first established. After that it was removed to the ' Ring of Bells,' in Coffee-House slip, kept by Brother Spencer ; after which it was removed to Brother William Moore's, at the corner of Cedar and Temple streets, in consequence of the death of Brother Spencer. After that time it seemed to fail, and I believe that it was pretty much the last ; for, as I had to leave New York for the fron- tiers during the last war, I heard no more of it, and when I returned I could not trace it out, and so it slept for a time. But during my time we were applied to for a branch to go to Phila- delphia ; but whether it was granted, I cannot tell. My father and brother and myself passed the chair during its continuance, and also Captain John Hewett and William Moore. "To ALL WHOM IT MAT CONCERN: The above document is a true statement of the first formation of the Order of Odd- Fellows in the city of New York, made by William E. Cham- bers, the only surviving founder in the city of New York of the THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 29 Sbakspere Grand Lodge of Odd-Fellows,' instituted and opened the twenty-third of December, 1806. *' WILLIAM E. CHAMBERS, 527 Greenwich St., N. Y." " This is to certify that I, John C. Chambers, was one of the founders of the first Lodge of Odd-Fellows, instituted and opened the twenty-third of December, 1806, at the house of Thomas Hodgkinson, known then as the ' Shakspere Tavern,' No. 17 Fair street, now called Fulton street, in the city of New York. And said Lodge was hailed and styled the ' Shakspere Grand Lodge of Odd-Fellows.' " JOHN C. CHAMBERS, Poughkeepsie, N. Y., "P. G. M. of the Loyal Independent Grand Lodge, " Westminster, England." "I hereby certify that 1 was made a member of the ' Shak- spere Grand Lodge,' held at the ' Shakspere Tavern,' in Fair street, now called Fulton street, in the year 1806; and thai Solomon Chambers was Most Noble Grand, and John C. Cham- bers was Vice Grand. William E. Chambers was R. H. S. to M. N. G. " JOHN R. THOMAS, N. Y." " This is to certify that I was a member of the ' Shakspere Grand Lodge of Odd-Fellows,' about the year 1807, held at ' Shakspere Tavern,' kept by Mr. Hodgkinson, in Fair street (now Fulton street). Mr. Solomon Chambers was Most Noble Grand, and Mr. John C. Chambers Vice Grand. " The only surviving members I now recollect are Mr. James Chesterman, Mr. John C. Chambers, and Mr. William E. Chambers. " WILLIAM DUBOIS, No. 285 Broadway, N. Y." This is to certify that I was a member of the ' Shakspere Grand Lodge of Odd-Fellows,' held at the Shakspere Tavern,' in Fair street, now Fulton street, in 1806, or thereabout : with Mr. William E. and Mr. John C. Chambers, and their father. Solomon Chambers, who was M. N. G., and John was V. G. M r . William Dubois, of Broadway, was a member. "JAMES CHESTERMAN, 710 Broadway, N. Y." 3* 30 THE ODD-FELT-OWS' TEXT-BOOK. " Shortly after my return from New Orleans, in the early part of 1819, as near as my memory serves, I was proposed by Mr. Nexson (a school-teacher, and then acting as Secretary) and became a member of ' Shakspere Lodge, No. 1.' At this period it was generally conceded that the ' Shakspere' was the oldest (if not the only) Lodge in the United States. We held our meetings in the house corner of Cedar and Temple streets, occupied by Mr. William Moore, who had been a mem- ber of the theatrical profession. I remember well that at his house we elected as Treasurer the performer, Mr. Hopkins Rob- ertson, who died while holding that office, and by a unanimous vote of the Lodge the funds then in his possession reverted to hi<5 widow, who was in indigent circumstances. "About two years after, the Lodge was removed to the house occupied by Mr. Mahany, in Chatham near Spruce street, where we opened under the name of ' Franklin Lodge, No. 2.' It was in this Lodge that General George P. Morris, editor of the 4 Mirror,' passed the chairs. I was elected Secretary at this period, and continued in that situation for two years, during which time the Lodge was removed to Water street, near Beekman slip. I left the city soon after removing to this loca- tion, and know not what became of certain books and documents at that time under my control. I can not say who succeeded me as Secretary, but understood that they merged into the ' Columbia Lodge.' "As regards the antiquity of 'Shakspere Lodge, No. 1,' I never heard it questioned ; and 1 am assured there are members now living who can testify that it existed in this city fourteen years previous to my becoming a brother, in 1819, at which time it was revived under the old dispensation. " MANLY B. FOWLER, N. Y." In the year 1816, according to the testimony of Brother CHARLES SHERWOOD, of New York, who as- serts that his authority for the statement is undeniable, there were a few Odd-Fellows, all foreigners by birth, who met together in New York, and organized them- selves into a Lodge, which they called " Prince Re- gent's Lodge." This institution, also, from various THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 31 causes, failed to establish and carry out the principles of the Order. Late in 1822, a charter was obtained from the Loyal Beneficent Duke of Sussex Lodge, No. 2, in Liverpool, England, and Columbia Lodge, No. 1, of the city of New York, which is still in suc- cessful operation, was regularly organized. There can be no doubt, however, that WILDEY was the actual originator and founder of Odd-Fellowship, as it exists in America. He was accustomed to the enjoyment of the society of Odd-Fellows at home, and he felt naturally anxious for similar society here. THOMAS WILDEY was born in London, in 1785. In 1806, at the age of twenty-one, he was initiated into " Independent Lodge," at Bath, England, in which he was subsequently raised three several times to the prin- cipal chair. In July, 1818, he embarked for America, and on the second of September of that year arrived at Baltimore, where he immediately commenced the busi- ness of coachspring-making, which he had learned with his father. On landing, he was desirous to visit a Lodge, and was much astonished on being informed by a biother of the Order whom he met JOHN WELCH, also a foreigner that there was no Lodge in Balti- more. Wildey and Welch, however, determined to ascertain if there were no Odd-Fellows in the city, and they accordingly gave public notice, calling for mem- bers of the I. O. O. F. The result was the meeting of five, and the subsequent formation of a Lodge. To HENRY M. JACKSON, the first N. G. of Franklin Lodge (the second Lodge instituted), and JOHN BOYD and JOHN CHOWDER, Mr. Wildey was much indebted for assistance in the infancy of the Order. 82 THE ODD- FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. The following thoughts, in connection with the his* O O 7 tory of this matter, have been furnished us by a brother who has been long a valuable member of the Frater nity : " In the year 181 9, two worthy brothers of the Order of Odd-Fellows by chance met in the city of Baltimore. They were foreigners by birth, and had left their na- tive land to seek an asylum in this country. It would appear that they were not strangers to each other in their mother-country, or, if they were, they at once recognised one another as having been co-workers in the great cause of humanity in the land of their birth ; and, as they were often together, their conversation was naturally directed to the subject of the Order : they had known and enjoyed its kindly principles at home, and it was with deep and bitter regret that an institu- tion so kindly in its principles, and so congenial to the government and country they had adopted, had not found its way across the ocean. " Many were the schemes they devised to ascertain what number of Odd-Fellows, if any, could be found on the western continent, for it does not appear they had any knowledge at this time of the previous estab- lishment of the Order in New York. After many vain and fruitless efforts, they accidentally hit upon the plan of giving public notice through the newspapers of the day, calling a meeting of such of the Order as should have come to this country from the Old World, and designating the time and place of meeting. The long- looked-for day and hour at length arrived, and with trembling and anxious hearts they assembled at the place of meeting and behold ! three besides them- selves, out of the vast population of the United States, THE ODD-FELLOWS* TEXT-BOOK. 33 assembled at the call of their brethren, and made them- selves known. These five humble individuals met, not as strangers to each other in a distant land, but as brothers whose hearts and souls were united in the bonds of Odd-Fellowship. Although they were stran- gers to one another in the general acceptation of the term, yet as Odd-Fellows they were brothers, and re- garded and esteemed each other as old and long-tried friends, because they knew the most implicit confi- dence could be reposed in one another, and that it mat- tered not what language they spoke, or what country or clime gave them birth : they met as friends, and were bound together in the ties of friendship. " No motive but the purest brotherly love had called them together ; nothing but the pure spirit of benevo- lence, and a desire to advance and improve the condi- tion of man, actuated them to assemble on that occa- sion ; no motives of gain, no allurements to wealth or power, no high-sounding titles of distinction, brought them together : they were men without any particular influence with no pecuniary means, except such aa was necessary for their comfort and temporal happi- ness in the humbler walks of life. They, however, firmly resolved to surmount all obstacles, and, if pos- sible, to plant the seed of Odd-Fellowship in the soil of Freedom ; firmly believing that, if properly nour- ished and watered, it would speedily take deep root, and that its branches would extend far and wide, until the inhabitants of the whole western continent could repose under its shade, and receive nourishment from its fruits. " They accordingly applied to England, and after much anxiety ^nd delay procured a charter, and this 34 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Lodge they called ' Washington Lodge.' They had no sooner obtained a charter and organized the institu- tion, than prejudice and superstition started up on all sides, and proclaimed the most unblushing slanders against all secret societies, and that this poor Lodge of Odd-Fellows was the very nucleus of all immorality and infidelity. And it no doubt appears marvellous that this small band of brothers had the courage and firmness of purpose to sustain themselves under such trials and persecutions, and with so great a weight of public opinion pressing upon them. " But these persecutions were no doubt intended for wise and good purposes ; for, no sooner had the slanders of the day been circulated, than people were led to inquire into the objects of the Order, and who- ever learned its friendly precepts and benevolent pur- poses, solicited to become members in the cause of humanity, and, if found worthy, were received as broth- ers. These persecutions, no doubt, had a tendency also to chasten their conduct, and to actuate them to walk uprightly before God and man ; they being con- scious that, without the strictest moral conduct, the world would draw the inference, and perhaps with rea- son, that their purposes were evil rather than good : and the consequence was that ' Washington Lodge' soon had its scores of followers, and ultimately became (he centre from which emanated the purest moral pre- cepts, cheering and dispensing their kindly influences in every direction ; and from this once feeble band were soon established in the city of Baltimore a num- ber of Lodges, composed of a portion of the most wealthy and most intelligent inhabitants of that city By this rime the light of benevolence and brotherly THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 35 love had been kindled in ' Columbia Lodge,' and their joint influences had fanned it into a flame, extending far beyond the bounds of the states in which these Lodges were established, and one state succeeded after another, until there are now Lodges established in every state of the Union. " What a pleasing reflection, to behold such unpar- alleled success in so short a period of time ! What a mighty host we now number ! Contemplate the charities and blessings we are daily dispensing to the widow and the orphan ; how many thousands at this moment are receiving the benefits of Odd-Fellowship's open-handed charities, and praying for its continued success !" But, to proceed to the origin of Odd-Fellowship in the United States, and to a correct statement of the commencement of the Order here, we observe that Washington Lodge, No. 1, was instituted by the five persons assembled at Wildey's suggestion. It was organized at the house of William Lupton, sign of the " Seven Stars," Second street, Baltimore, on the twenty-sixth of April, 1819, by Thomas Wildey, John Welch, John Duncan, John Cheathem, and Richard Rushworth. The two first-named were elected N. G. and V. G. of the Lodge ; and it was at first intended that the new Lodge should " work" according to the usages of the Union, or London Order, and operato on the ancient method of self-institution, or indepen- dency of any " higher-law" power. " The archives," says P. G. Sire KENNEDY, " do not furnish the exact period at which this design was abandoned ; but thers is evidence that it was in the first month of the exist- ence of the Lodg*;. The work being thus changed f* 36 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. that of the ' Independent Order,' it became necessary to be possessed of a dispensation from competent au- thority, as required under that organization. As early as June, 1819, a series of efforts was commenced to that end, directed toward various points, as one after another indicated failure. The ' Abercrombie Grand Lodge, of Manchester' (the head of one of the divis- ions of the Order which were at that time in active contest for supremacy in Odd-Fellowship), which was merged into the ' Manchester Unity' in 1826, respond- ed ; and on the seventh of January, 1820, issued a dispensation which, however, it is believed, never reached its destination." But through the instrumen- tality of P. G. JOHX CHOWDER, who visited Baltimore from Preston, England, during the latter part of 1819, the Duke of York's Lodge, Preston, Manchester Unity, by virtue of powers indisputable, granted and forwarded the following dispensation : "NO. WASHINGTON LODGE. 1. "PLURIBUS Urs'UM. ' The Grand Lodge of Maryland, and of the United States of America, of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellowship. " To all whom it may concern : This Warrant or Dispensa- tion is a free gift from the Duke of York's Lodge, of the Inde- pendent Order of Odd-Fellowship, holden at Preston, in the county of Lancaster, in Old England, to a number of Brothers residing in the city of Baltimore, to establish a Lodge at the house of Brother Thomas Woodward, in South-Frederick street, in the said city : hailed by the title of ' No. 1, Washington Lodge, the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States of America.' That the said Lodge, being the first established in the United States, hath power to grant a Warrant or Dis jpensation to a number of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellow- ship into any State of the Union, for the encouragement and support ot Brothers of the said Order on travel or otherwise. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT -BOOK. 37 " And be it further observed, that the said Lodge be not removed from the house of Brother Thomas Woodward, so long as five Brothers are agreeable to hold the same. " In testimony hereof, we have subjoined our names, and affixed the seal of our Lodge, this the first day of February, one thousand eight hundred and twenty : " JAMES MANDSLEY, G. M. JOHN COTTAM, N. G. GEO. NAILOR, V. G. JOHN ECCLES, Sec'y. JOHN CROWDER, P. G. SAML. PEMBERTON, P. G. JOHN WALMSLEY, P. G. W. TOPPING, P. G. GEO. WARD, P. G. GEORGE BELL, P. G." This instrument was received on the twenty -third of October, 1820, and was formally accepted. It con- tinued to be the warrant of authority under which the Lodge worked, until, by a unanimous vote, it was sur- rendered into the hands of the Past Grands, and the Lodge received a dispensation from the Grand Lodge in its stead. " The success of the Order," says P. G. Sire Kennedy, " may with propriety be dated from this event, as concentrated and more enlightened ac- tion was the primary result." From that time (Feb- ruary 22, 1821) the Grand Lodge of the United States* has been the head of the Order in America. A dis- pensation, or charter, was granted to the Grand Lodge of the United States, May 15, 1826, by the Grand Annual Movable Committee (the head of the Order in Great Britain), confirmatory of the dispensation granted * In 1821, and until the separate organization of the Grand Lodtje of Maryland ((January 15, 1825), called " The Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States " 4 38 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. by the Duke of York's Lodge, and authorizing the said Grand Lodge to conduct the business of Odd-Fellow- ship in America, without the interference of any other country. In consequence of important changes in the work of the Order by the English brethren, made without the ad vice or consent of the Grand Lodge of the Uni- ted States, and in defiance of its frequent remonstrance, a separation between the Order in Great Britain and America was decided upon by the Grand Lodge of the United States, at the session of that body in 1842. Previously, however, to this decision, the Grand Lodge had in vain exerted every effort to induce the Man- chester Unity of Odd-Fellows to restore the ancient language of the Order.* We are happy to say, how- ever, that, although the form used by these two bodies is slightly diverse, they are united in principle; and that the objects they have in view, and the good they accomplish, are the mainspring of their motive and action. In concluding this part of our subject the History of Odd-Fellowship we shall explain the "motive and action" of the Order, by exhibiting its practices and principles.! * For the history of this matter (which is too lengthy for this work), we refer the reader to the Journal of Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of the United States a new edition of which has been lately authorized pages 389-433. * We have borrowed on this subject a portion of an eloquent Address, by Rev. J. D. M'CABE, delivered before Ha\vkins Lodge, No. 41, at Rogersville, Tennessee, July 4, 1849, at the " laying of the corner-stone of the Odd-Fellows' Female Insti- tute," of that place. THE ODD-FELLOWS ? TEXT-BOOK. 39 CHAPTER III. THF PRINCIPLES AND TENDENCY OF ODD-FELLOWSHIP ODD-FELLOWSHIP is an institution formed by good men for the advancement of the principles of benevo- lence and truth. The foundation of the superstruc- ture is laid in the acknowledgment of universal frater- nity that man is bound to sympathize with, to aid and protect his brother-man : upon this foundation is erected a system of practical benevolence, that sends its influence through all society ; and that this may not degenerate into an indiscriminate system of alms-giving, which converts the earnings of honest industry into a reward for pauperism and idleness, it has established certain checks and balances, by which its active good- ness is restrained within proper limits. Its first duty is to its own household, but its influence is felt beyond ; uniting good men in the practice of acknowledged du- ties, requiring no surrender of religious or political creed, leaving speculation for practice, it has gone forth among the homes of men like some missioned spirit of good, with its words of kindness, its deeds of comfort; wherever it has moved, it was for the healing of disease, the alleviation of pain : the tear of sorrow has been wiped away, and the face of anguish illumined with a smile : " it has no marble altar, no wreathed statue, no offerings of incense ; but hearts of affection build up its shrine ; the widow and the orphan are its 40 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. living monuments, and gratitude pours out for it a free libation." Uniting men under the influence of the so- cial principle, Odd-Fellowship demands the practice of benevolence and charity ; and in order to impress these duties upon the mind, and furnish incentives to action in those moments of relaxation to which all men are subject, it has instituted solemn ceremonies, or- dained frequent meetings, and formed a language of signs all designed to produce a habit of benevolence, and, by educating the moral faculties, promote the well-being of society. The principles emblazoned upon our banners, and inscribed upon our altars-, are FRIENDSHIP, LOVE, and TRUTH, and it is the constant and unvarying inculcation of these principles that causes Odd-Fellowship to be strictly practical. We are associated to preserve no striking and beautiful traditions to teach no original truth to enunciate no occult mysteries. We receive with reverence the teachings of God's Holy Word, which tells us that we are the children of one common Father brethren of one family fellow-travellers through the same dark world of sin, alike needing the sympathy and support of our fellow-men ; that we are bound, as stewards of God, to use wisely the things which have been com- mitted to us in trust, for the advancement of the gen- eral good. It is true that the means of our Society do not enable us to relieve all the wants of all men, but they do enable us to mitigate the sufferings of many. The relief is, in the first place, justly restricted to the members of the Order and their families ; but, these demands answered, relief is extended to others as far as we possess the ability. The pecuniary contribu- tions of the members, which consist in small weekly THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 4J sums, constitute a fund for the exclusive purpose of relieving the sick, burying the dead, educating the orphan, and protecting and assisting the widow. In this respect our Order is a vast mutual-aid society, " differing from all others in the perfection of its or- ganization, the universality of its extent, and the mo- tives presented for action in high and benevolent teachings, which lead from specific and enforced du- ties to the voluntary performance of the noblest deeds of charity." While, therefore, our Order, in its or- ganization and development, is founded upon eternal principles, it only gives direction to known and admit- ted truth, and enforces the duties it teaches by disci- pline. It is formed for action, and he who will not work is not permitted to remain a drone in the busy hive. From this very general view, we may pass to a con- sideration of some of the specific benefits of the insti- tution secured to each and every member by the stipu- lations of covenant agreement : 1. If a member of the Order is unable to attend to his ordinary avocation, from sickness or providential disability, he is paid every week, during the continu- ance of such disability, a sum varying from three to ten dollars. He is visited by the officers and mem- bers of his Lodge, and proper attendants furnished to watch by his sick-bed and attend to his wants. 2. In case of death, he is decently buried at the expense of the Order; his remains are followed to " the house appointed for all the living," and the dust ;s smoothed on his grave by the hand of sorrowing Friendship. 3. The duties of Odd-Fellowship end not hero, 4* 42 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. The chain of earthly fellowship may be broken, but some of its severed links remain, in the persons of the stricken widow and the helpless orphan : Odd-Fellow- ship repairs to the desolate home ; re-fills the cruse of oil, and replenishes the empty barrel ; over the night of desolate widowhood it watches with sympathizing care, and comforts the stricken-hearted mother with assurance that her fatherless children will be protected and educated. Pause for one moment to examine the strong argu- ment furnished in favor of our Order by this view of its character. The young man in business far from home the man of family, who earns his bread by the sweat of his brow can, when in health, easily spare four or five dollars annually, and thus secure such aid and attention during sickness as could be obtained by no other pecuniary expense. Especially does the man of family reap an advantage in a pecuniary point of view which no other investment of the same amount of funds could yield. The merchant, the man of busi- ness, visiting our northern or southern cities, may be taken sick : and who that has ever been sick, a stranger in one of the large hotels, knows not the neglect with which persons under such circumstances are treated? They may have abundant means to procure the atten- tion of hirelings, but they can not purchase kindness and sympathy. The possession of an Odd-Fellow's card will secure all this ; for its presentation to the Lodge is an assurance of fraternal attention. These, we may say, are the common duties of humanity, ac- knowledged by all men, and needing no societies to enforce them. We grant that they are the duties of common humanity, but are they performed ? THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 43 We have no idea of the amount of suffering endured by virtuous poverty, when the supplies procured by industry are cut off by sickness ; when the strong man is prostrated, and lies stricken and helpless, knowing that loved ones are in want ; when no friendly footstep crosses the threshold of the obscure home to which he has fled to conceal from a heartless world the bitterness of his poverty. Oh ! the agony of the hot tears that blister his fevered cheek as he nightly kisses the parched lips and looks upon the famine-pinched faces of his children, as they go supperless to their bed of straw ! Who can tell the anguish of his heart, when the wife of his bosom bends over him, with her pale, earnest face, and, as she wipes the fever-drops from his brow, with the sublime energy of woman's endurance, whis- pers resignation, hope ! Alas ! what has he to hope for his loved ones, if God in his providence should call him away ? Nothing ! That wife will be a broken- hearted widow, struggling single-handed against pov- erty, exposed to the insults of a heartless world ; those children will be reared in ignorance, it may be for a life of shame a death of disgrace. But how different would be the condition of such a person, if, in the days of his health and strength, he had become a member of our noble Order ! A competency would have smiled around his hearthstone ; sympathizing friends would have watched around his sick-bed ; and he would close his eyes in death with the sweet assurance that his family was left in the care of brothers, whose con- stant duty it is to " protect the widow and educate the orphan." We could give numerous instances of the advan- tages secured to individuals who, when they entered 44 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. the Order, did not dream of ever needing its benefits The advantages of this association are further seen in the fact that it brings together men of the most dis- cordant opinions, and unites them in the bonds of brotherly love affording by its frequent meetings so- cial intercourse, free from the contaminating influence of vice. It promotes the morals of community, by re- straining its members from all intemperance and other illegal practices, under penalty of expulsion, and the publication of their names in connection with the offence for which discipline is executed throughout the limits of the Order. It is calculated to make men social and humane, by bringing them frequently together to de- vise means and measures for the relief of their dis- tressed fellow-creatures ; thus breaking down the bar- riers erected by sect and party, and uniting men as citizens of one country, "the world" members of one family, " the human race !" It is sometimes urged that the institution comes in contact with the claims of the church, and creates con- flicting duties. The Order of Odd-Fellows is com- posed of Christians of every denomination ; they all acknowledge individually the authority of the church, and in the most perfect obedience they unite to do pre- cisely what the teachings of the church command to be done. Singly they could not effect as much good as when united. Precisely the same objection may with equal propriety be made against all voluntary as- sociations. The fact is, the church makes no specific provision, in any of its branches, for the performance of the duties in which Odd-Fellowship engages ; it does not, in any one of the sects or denominations, make provision for their discharge. Where has it THE ODD-FELLOWS* TEXT-BOOK. 45 made provision for the sick members of its comrnu- r;ion, furnishing watchers by their beds every night for months supplying them with money to procure the necessaries and often the delicacies of life? What provision has it' made for the support of the widow the education of the orphan ? What provision has it made to take care of the sick stranger, and in death to give him decent burial? Where are these provisions ? No such provision exists ; there is no systematic plan in the church enforced upon its members by discipline. All the conflict our Order can have with the church is to reprove its apathy. It may be made an instrument to provoke the church to activity, by showing what a mere human society can do, with " her usages of old" her bonds of love, her deeds of self-denial, her require- ments of discipline in those days when her children showed their faith by their works of mercy and love. Odd-Fellowship wields the old means; the church refuses to use them. And is this wrong? Shall all these deeds be left undone, because a few will murmur at the expenditure, and sell the precious ointment to increase their own gains ? Is it right, is it proper, to fced the hungry, to clothe the naked, to visit the sick ? is it right to bury the dead, protect the widow, and educate the orphan ? Who will say it is wrong to do these things ? What is Odd-Fellowship, but associated action in the performance of these duties ? What has converted the howling wilderness into a home for talent and refinement, broken up the lair of the red man, and enthroned hospitality where all was w-ildness and barbarism? What has waked up the song of the laborer, the click of the artisan's hammer, the hum of the thrifty multitude, the creations of taste 46 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. and refinement? Associated action! the same kind of power that, forty centuries ago, upheaved the giant pyramids that survive the ruins of desolation, as the hoary connection between the past and the present, "like monuments over unknown graves, heralding the glory, though their worn inscriptions tell not the names, of those who sleep at their base." From the active virtue and sweet charities of the domestic circle to the integrity and stability of the mightiest nation upon earth, this principle of associated action is seen at work. It is a principle of power and of might: direct it we may, destroy it we can not. Like steam, if confined in iron bonds, it will burst its fetters, and scatter death and destruction around ; and yet, like the well- broke horse, it may be harnessed and driven in safety. Men will associate. If their association be not turned to the melioration of human wo to plans for the moral and social elevation of mankind it will be seized upon by the factious and the discontented, the licentious and the vile, as a potent engine to overturn the social and religious institutions which now serve to check their excesses. Will men, under the influ- ence of the social principle, seek the bar-room the gaming-house? Give them some other attractive place of assembly, where virtuous thoughts and moral habits will become chosen themes and preferred practices. Will they unite in secret clubs, to agitate treason, and seek to unsettle government and society with their vain discontents and Utopian schemes of social equality? Unite them by the charm of secrecy, to perform works of mercy and benevolence. God has sanctioned this principle of association in the institution of his holy church Elevated above the discords of earth, unin- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 47 fluenced by the changeful policy of time, it is to con- stitute one vast association designed to concentrate the action of its myriad members into the effective unity of one catholic body. When this perfection is attained, minor associations will not be needed. Such is a brief view of the practice, and principles, and tendencies, of Odd-Fellowship. That there will be opposition, is to be expected ; for what that is lovely or of good report has ever escaped the sneer and the scowl of the gloomy Pharisee, who, while he tithes anise, mint, and cumin, neglects the weightier matters of the law, making it void through his traditions ? But our principles may be tried by their fruits ; and who can rise up and say these fruits are evil, or that asso- ciated action, by which all the achievements of the age have been wrought, is wrong? Like "the still small voice" upon the ear of the prophet, when the wind, and the fire, and the earthquake, had passed. Odd-Fellowship, the noiseless spirit of benevolence and love, has trained its children to follow in the path of desolation and affliction, whispering peace, and bind- ing in the golden bonds of Friendship, Love, and Truth, the sheaves left standing in the fields over which Death and Sorrow, the great reapers, have passed. Look over the field of our appropriate labor for the evidence of these works. See yon stricken widow, bowed down and sorrowful ; the hope of her heart is quenched. But there is a change : an arm of affec- tion is cast around her a hand of love has wiped away her tears. That arm was our Order's arm ; that hand an Odd-Fellow's. See yon orphan, with no narthly parent to watch over him, no mother to caress 4 43 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. and wipe away his burning tears, no shelter for his defenceless head. Look! an arm is cast around him, he is sheltered and cared for, his darkness is gone, his mind and his heart are cultivated, and his glistening eye tells of gratitude and love. The spirit of Odd- Fellowship has been there ! The true Odd-Fellow ! he is out in the field, gather- ing the ready harvest ; in the workshop, laying his strong hand to the anvil, the loom, and the forge ; in the counting-house, employed in the pursuits of pro- fessional labor. He is at home, fulfilling the duties of parent, husband ; gladdening the hearth and the board by the virtues of the social spirit. He is by the bed of sickness, wiping the moist brow and cooling the parched lip ; he is in sorrowful places, ministering to poverty, comforting affliction, and relieving distress. He is upon the field of his country's fame and glory, where rank after rank goes down in the shock of bright blades, and before the volleying death-shot with dauntless heart and eagle-eye battling for freedom ! Brethren, let us go on, unfurling the white bannei of our Order giving it proudly to the breeze, till its triumphant folds intertwine, and become blended with the stars and stripes of the freeman's hope and home . till Oppression break his sceptre, War lie crushed on his harness ; " till man is bound in brotherhood to man till tears are changed to smiles, and groans to benedictions !" THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 49 THE ORGANIZATION OF ODD-FEL- LOWSHIP. THE Order of Odd-Fellowship consists of two branches, viz. : Lodges and Encampments. The Lodges comprise six, and the Encampments three De- grees. These, with the exception of Degrees obtained through official service, embrace the entire work of the Order, the Royal-Purple Degree, of the Encampment being the highest and last. The cost of attaining these nine Degrees varies in different localities ; bu' usually it does not exceed forty, and in some states it is less than twenty dollars. The qualifications re- quired are that the candidate must be a free white man, not under twenty-one years of age, of good moral character and sound health, and a believer in the Su- preme Being, the maker and ruler of the universe. All Lodges and Encampments are, directly or indi- rectly, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States ; which body meets annually on the third Monday of September, and specially, if neces- sary, at the call of the Grand-Sire. It is the supreme head of the Order on this Continent, and is the source of all true and legitimate authority in Odd-Fellow- ship therein. It consists of Representatives, elected from each Grand Lodge and Grand Encampment ; one for any number of members under one thousand, with- in the jurisdiction of said Grand bodies, and an addi- tional one for any number comprising and exceeding 6 D 50 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. one thousand ;* and of Past Grand-Sires, f Its elec- tive officers consist of a Grand-Sire, a Deputy Grand- Sire, a Recording and Corresponding Secretary, and a Treasurer, who are elected biennially, by the .Repre- sentatives. The appointed officers consist of an Assist- ant Grand Secretary, a Grand Marshal, a Grand Chap- lain, a Grand Guardian, and a Grand Messenger. It * The government of the Order in Great Britain is consti- tuted in the following manner: The entire body of the Inde- pendent Order in the kingdom is known and distinguished by the title of '* The Manchester Unity, of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows," so called from its organization and concentra- tion of power in the city of Manchester : " The Grand Annu- al Movable Committee," consisting of Representatives from districts in the ratio of one for every thousand members, is the sovereign depository of the power of the Order, not only in re- lation to the work, but also in reference to the entire detail of government, descending even to all the rules and regulations of subordinate Lodges, and leaving with them the isolated power of making By-Laws not inconsistent with the enactments of the Grand A. M. C. This body is constitutionally movable in its character and absolute in its powers. It assembles annually, on Whitsun-week, which is in England a period of universal holyday, at which time a Grand-Master and Board of Directors are elected ; all of wham must be residents of the city of Man- chester. This Board exercises during the recess a supervisory jurisdiction over all the affairs of the Order : it usually ex- pounds the laws ; responds to all applications for instruction or advice ; and heretofore was an integral part of a standing com- mittee for the determination of all questions of grievance subject to the final action of the Grand A. M. C. The propriety of a change of this government, we are informed, is under advisement f At the session held in Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept., 1850, the following amendment to the Constitution of the Grand Lodge l>f the United States was adopted : "Past Grand-Sires shall be admitted to seats in this GrandLodge, with the power of debating, and making motions, but shall not Jiave the privilegf of voting, unless they be Representatives." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 51 transacts its business in secret; but any P. G. who shall have attained to the Royal-Purple Degree, and who is in " good standing," may, by being introduced by a Grand Representative from his jurisdiction, be admitted to its meetings. The State Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments are the heads of the Order in the localities where they are severally established. Five or more subordinate Lodges or Encampments having been previously instituted by the Grand Lodge of the United States, and which are under its jurisdiction* located in any State, District, or Territory, wherein reside seven Past Grands, or seven Past Chief-Patriarchs, in good stand- ing, may petition for and obtain from the Grand Lodge of the United States a Charter for a Grand Lodge, or for a Grand Encampment. These consist of Repre- sentatives from the Lodges or Encampments, which usually comprise all the Past Grands, or the Past Chief- Patriarchs and sometimes the Past High- Priests- of the subordinates. Their chief officer is a Grand-Master, or a Grand-Patriarch, who is elected annually by the Past Grands, or by the Past Chief- * Upon the petition of five brothers of the Order, in good standing, praying for a Charter to open a subordinate Lodge, or of seven patriarchs for one to open a subordinate Encampment, in a State, District, or Territory, where a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment has not been established, the Grand Lodge of the United States will grant the same. Such Lodge or En- campment will be organized by a Past Grand, or a Past Chief- Patriarch, by authority from the Grand-Sire. Such petition, accompanied by the Charter-fee (thirty dollars), must be for- warded to the Grand- Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the United States, at Baltimore, Md. The form of the petition is similar to that submitted to a State G r and Lodge. (See p. 55.) 52 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Patriarchs and Past High-Priests. The State Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments have power to grant and revoke Charters for subordinates in their several jurisdictions, and to make such laws as may appertain to the Order in their localities. No person, except a Past Grand, or a Past Chief-Patriarch, or Past High- Priest, is permitted to visit the Grand Bodies. Past Grands are of the Grand Lodges ; Pasfc Chief-Patri- archs and Past High-Priests of the Grand Encamp- ments : these bodies are entirely separate and distinct from each other The subordinate Lodges consist of what may be ap- propriately called " THE PEOPLE : " from these, in a true and legitimate sense, proceed Encampments, Grand Lodges, Grand Encampments, and, finally, the " supreme head of the Order." They comprise a va- riety of minds ; but we may confidently say, they are of one heart. The chief officer of a subordinate Lodge is called a Noble-Grand; he is elected semi- annually ; he presides over and conducts the business of the Lodge. Other officers are elected and ap- pointed to support and assist him in his duties. We have previously stated what qualifications are neces- sary to entitle a gentleman to membership. The man- ner of introducing candidates is as follows : A brother of the Lodge proposes his friend, whom he must be willing to recommend. On the reception of the proposition, a committee is at once appointed, whose business it is to ascertain the character, age, condition of health, and standing of the applicant. If this committee, after due investigation, report that they believe him worthy, he is " balloted for," and if two (or three) black balls (as the local law prescribes) THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 53 appear against him, he is rejected ; if not, he is elected.* At the next meeting he may be initiated ; but should he fail to present himself for six meetings, his election is void, unless a satisfactory excuse is offered. Three months after initiation, he may apply for the first and second Degrees ; four weeks after receiving the second, he may apply for the third and fourth ; and four weeks after obtaining the fourth, he may apply for the fifth Degree. In every case the Lodge must be opened in the Degree applied for when the vote is taken. The Degrees may be conferred by the Lodge, or by a " Degree Lodge." The Encampments consist of brothers who belong to the Lodges, and who must have attained to the fifth, or Scarlet Degree. No person can be admitted to membership in an Encampment, unless he be a Scar- let-Degree member, in good standing. Encampments comprise three Degrees, which are considered by many the sublimest of Odd-Fellowship. Their prin- cipal officers consist of a Chief-Patriarch and a High" Priest ; whose duties are to preside over, and perform the work of, the Encampment. No brother of the Order should be content with his advancement to the Scarlet, or final Degree of his Lodge ; he should pro- ceed through the Encampment to the last, or Royal- Purple Degree. Such elevation will entitle him to privileges and advantages of much value. t * The reader will observe a repetition of this on page 99. A full explanation of the introduction of members, and other matters connected with the government of a subordinate Lodge, will be found under the head, " The Subordinate Lodge," p. 55. t We have given in the foregoing a mere outline of the va- rious branches of the Order. Elsewhere in this Book we fur- nish a full explanation of those several bodies under their ap- prupriate titl-i$. 5* 54 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. A WORD TO THE NEOPHYTE. IT may be considered an important period of life in which a man enters a Lodge of Odd-Fellows. The duties there taught him, and the lessons incul- cated throughout the progress he may make in the Order, will tend, if he be true to his nature, to his moral and intellectual advancement, and consequently to his happiness. He should therefore prepare his mind for the task he has undertaken, and determine to be attentive to the instructions he is about to receive. He will find in these instructions the voice of Wis- dom and Truth ; and he will see that whoever shall heed and obey them must be respected by the wise and virtuous. They teach him his duty to his God, his country, his neighbor, his family, and himself; they show him how he may live in the enjoyment of a peaceful, contented mind which is the highest wealth a mortal need desire ; they demonstrate to him that " vice is a monster of such frightful mien," that it should be shunned and hated ; they persuade him that there is in Fraternal Union and Love the truest, sub- limest pleasure ; they lead him to obedience of the commands of his Divine Maker, in which he can nol fail to be blessed in life, death, and eternity. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 55 THE SUBORDINATE LODGE.* A LODGE must be constituted by at least five mem- bers, including one qualified to preside at its meetings; the qualifications necessary being that such presiding officer must have been instructed in the five Degrees. The Vice-Grand, Secretary, Treasurer, O. Guardian, and Warden must also have received the five Degrees. Any number of brothers not less than five, holding clearance or withdrawal cards, or dismissal certificates from the Lodge or Lodges to which they were pre- viously attached, may apply to the Grand Lodge of a State (or in case there is no Grand Lodge in the State, District, or Territory, in which they reside, to the Grand Lodge of the United States) for a Charter to open a Lodge, in the following words : 14 The petition of the undersigned, holding withdrawal-cards from Lodges legally recognised by your Right Worthy Body, respectfully represents, that it would be consistent with the ad- vantage of the Order to establish a Lodge, to be located at blank. Wherefore, your petitioners pray, that a Charter (or Warrant) may duly issue in pursuance of the laws of your R. W. Body." This, accompanied by the Charter-fee (usually thirty dollars), must be sent to the Grand-Secretary, who will lay it before tho Grand Lodge, which will author- ize a Charter in the following form : * As subordinate Lodges usually receive their Constitution from their respective Grand Lodges, there can be no strictly uniform "form " in minor details. The article is in conformity to the prin- ciples of all. The number reqiired to obtain a Charter varies in different localities in the same States, as well as in the different States, consequently there is no uniform law on this and on other minor matters. 66 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. " To ALL WHOM IT MAT CONCERN : The Grand Lodge of the State of blank, by authority of a Grand Charter, granted to them from the Grand Lodge of the United States, held in the City of Baltimore, State of Maryland, doth hereby grant this Warrant or Dispensation, to a number of brothers of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, residing in the State of blank, to establish a Lodge at the city of blank, to be hailed by the title of blank, for the encouragement and support of brothers of the said Order, when on travel or otherwise. And the said Lodge, being duly formed, is hereby authorized and empow- ered to initiate into the mysteries of the said Order any person or persons duly proposed and approved, according to the laws of Odd-Fellowship, and to administer to true brothers all the privileges and benefits arising therefrom ; and to enact By- Laws for the government of their Lodge : Provided always, that said Lodge do act according to the Order, and in conjunc- tion with, and obedience to, the Grand Lodge, adhering to and supporting the articles and charges delivered with this Dispen- sation ; in default whereof, this Warrant or Dispensation may be suspended, or taken away, at the decision of the Grand Ludge. 44 AND FURTHER, the Grand Lodge (in consideration of the due performance of the above) do bind themselves to repair all damages or destruction of the Dispensation, or charges, whether by fire or other accident : Provided sufficient proof be given that there is no illegal concealment or wilful destruction of the same. And the Grand Lodge will support this said Lodge in the exercise of their duty, and in the privileges and honors of the Order. 44 In witness whereof, we have displayed the colors of our Or- der, and subscribed our names, and affixed the seal of [t. s.] the Grand Lodge of blank, this day of one thousand eight hundred and (Signed by the Grand-Master and all officers of the Grand Lodge, together with the names of such past officers of Lodges as may choose to sign.) THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 57 This document will be forwarded to the brothers applying for the Charter, and the Lodge will be or- ganized by the Grand-Master or his Deputy, or a brother authorized by the Grand Lodge to perform such duty. The first business of a Lodge is, of course, to increase its membership. We nave elsewhere, in this work, expressed our opinion in reference to the cau- tion which should guide Odd-Fellows in introducing individuals for membership. We are aware that it is extremely desirable to every Lodge, especially in its commencement, to enlarge its numbers ; but we are sure that a Lodge never loses by exercising the utmost surveillance over its good name. One improper per- son admitted will often restrain a dozen worthy men. The name of a person desiring membership must be proposed by a member in writing, stating the age, residence, and business of the candidate ; which must be referred to three of the brothers for investigation, who must report at the succeeding regular meeting, when the candidate may be balloted for with ball-bal- lots; and if not more than two black balls appear against him, he will be elected ; but if three or more ap- pear, he must be rejected, and so declared.* A brother of the Order wishing to become a member of a Lodge must present his card or dismissal certificate from the Lodge of which he was formerly a member, which will be referred to a committee of three ; and he must be bal- loted for, and elected or rejected, in the manner above stated. An Ancient Odd-Fellow, f whose card is out * In Pennsylvania and one or two other States, two black balls ire sufficient to reject. j- An " Ancient Odd-Fellow" is a person who, having been regularly initiated into a legal Lodge of the Independent Order 6S THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. of date, or which may have been lost, can be admitted hy referring his application to a committee, and dis- posing of it in other respects as explained above; or he may be admitted on a Dismissal Certificate, for which see page 219. When a candidate is rejected, notice must be sent to the Grand Secretary of the jurisdiction; where there is no Grand Lodge, to the adjoining Lodges in the district. No rejected person can be proposed in any Lodge under six months from the time of re- jection. Any brother who is in good standing in his Lodge that is, who is not in arrears for dues over three months, and against whom there is no charge " for conduct un- becoming an Odd-Fellow " is entitled to receive from his Lodge, in case he should be sick or disabled, a sum of money weekly. The amount varies in extent some of the Lodges giving twenty dollars per week, and others four or five. The usual allowance, however, is five dollars per week. Those Lodges which give large benefits charge large initiation-fees and dues. Every worthy brother has a positive right to his weekly al lovvance. Neither is its payment to him a matter of charity. It belongs to him as really and unqualifiedly as would insurance-money, due from the insurer of property against loss by fire. It can not be too strongly impressed upon the rninds of Odd-Fellows, that there is no humiliation in receiving the Lodge benefits. In case of the death of a worthy brother, there is of Odd-Fellows, has honorably withdrawn, by card, from the Lodge of which he was last a member; and, retaining his card, the same is out of date, by reason of more than twelve months having transpired since it was granted ; or, having lost his card, good and satisfactory evidence is presented of his honorable with drawal from the Lodge in which he was last in membership. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 59 allowed, usually, a sum not less than thirty dol- lars, to defray the expenses of burial, which is to be paid over, without delay, to the deceased brother's nearest of kin.' The N. G., in the absence of compe- tent relations, takes charge of the funeral, and defrays the expense thereof. On the demise of the wife of a worthy brother, a sum is usually allowed, for the pur- pose of assisting in the funeral expenses. Any brother who may offend against the laws of the land, or of the Order, is punished by his Lodge. And all persons in arrears beyond the time specified in the By-Laws for payment of dues, are liable to be suspended. The success and usefulness of a Lodge depend much upon the integrity and character of its members, and upon the faithful payment of its dues ; and it cannot be too circumspect in watching over the one, and en- forcing a rigid observance of the other. Yet every man should have a fair trial for an offence involving either expulsion, suspension,* or reprimand ; neither should a man be suspended for non-payment of dues until every warning and facility shall have been given him, to induce or aid him in liquidating the claims against him. * For offences against the laws, after due trial, brothers may be suspended for a definite period, to be fixed by the Lodge. The time must not be of unreasonable length. When a brother has been expelled, he may be reinstated by consent of the Grand Lodge, on application from his subordinate Lodge. A penalty of suspen- sion or expulsion imposed by a Lodge affects the member's stand- ing in his Encampment to the same extent as in the Lodge ; but a penalty by the Encampment does not reach the brother's standing in his Lodge. Restoration to membership in the Lodge restores membership in the Encampment also. 60 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. No member of a Lodge can be put on trial, unless charges duly specifying his offence be submitted to the Lodge in writing by a brother of the Order, except when made liable by non-payment of dues, in which case he is usually suspended by the action of the By- Laws of his Lodge. When the charge or charges, with distinct specifications, have been preferred against a brother, he must be officially informed of the same, and at the next meeting a committee of brothers shall be appointed, as the By-Laws direct, who shall, as soon as practicable, notify the accused and the accuser of the time and place of meeting for the pur- pose of hearing the parties, their proofs and witnesses. They shall keep a correct and full record of the testi- mony of each witness, which, after being read to him, he should subscribe. After all the evidence for the prosecution shall have been heard, reasonable time shall be given the defendant to produce his witnesses, and, when through, other evidence from either party shall be received, until all desired is admitted. When the parties have been heard, should they desire to address the committee, they must retire, to give the committee an opportunity to make a decision. The committee shall submit a written report to the Lodge, with all the testimony they have taken. The report shall be read, and the evidence, if called for ; but should the reading of the evidence be called for, the whole must be read. The committee may or may not recommend the measure of punishment, should they report the accused guilty. After the accused has had an opportunity of being heard before the Lodge, he must retire, and a vote by ballot taken on the adop- tion of the report : a white ball in the affirmative, a black ball in the negative. Should the majority of THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 61 the balls be white, the report is adopted ; if black, it is rejected. A motion shall then be made as to the punishment, the vote to be taken by ballot : if the motion is suspension, or fine, or reprimand, a majority shall decide; if expulsion, two-thirds of the votes polled are required. When a motion is pending to expel, it is subject to amendment. Should the member tried feel aggrieved by the decision of his Lodge, he may appeal to the Grand Lodge of his jurisdiction, according to the provision of the laws thereof, whose decision is final, unless a rehearing is granted by the Grand Lodge, or an ap- peal permitted by it to the Grand Lodge of the United States. Should the accused be acquitted by his Lodge, its decision is final : the accuser has no appeal from its decision. When a member has been suspended for a definite time, his dues accrue the same as if he were in good standing, and at the expiration of the time named he resumes his rights in the Lodge without any formality or action of the Lodge. The members of a Lodge should ever regard the feelings of each other. They should treat each other with due delicacy and respect ; and all ungenerous remarks, personal allusions, or sarcastic language, by which the feelings of any brother may be wounded, arid the most prominent of our objects (Friendship, Charity, and Harmony) be interrupted or defeated, should be carefully avoided. All the discussions should be conducted in that spirit of candor, modera- tion, and open generosity, which leads men to the altar of concord and good-fellowship ; and the presiding officer of a Lodge should have the aid of every brother in his endeavor tr repress anything to the contrary. 6 62 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. It is right and proper, and to be expected, that breth- ren will differ in regard to various matters which may be brought before the Lodge ; but surely there is no good reason why an honest difference of opinion should lead to angry contention and animosity. The following order of business and rules of order for the government of a Lodge are such as should be adopted by all well-regulated Lodges of Odd-Fellows ; and we cannot do better, in concluding this branch of our subject, than to present them, for the instruction and the study of the readers of this work : ORDER OF BUSIKESS. 1. As soon as the N". G takes the chair, and calls the Lodge to order at the sound of the gavel, the officers shall explain their respective duties. 2. Calling the roll of officers, and reading the last minutes. 3. Report of the Committee of Relief, Sickness, and Distress. 4. Consideration of previous proposals for membership. 5. Initiation of new members. 6. Reception of new proposals for membership. 7. Unfinished business appearing on the minutes. 8. Has any brother anything to ofier for the good of this Order? RULES OF ORDER FOR SUBORDINATE LODGES. NOBLE GRAND. 1. The Noble Grand shall preserve order and pronounce the decision of the Lodge on all subjects ; he shall decide questions of order without debate, subject to an appeal to the Lodge by any three members, on which appeal no member shall speak but once. The question shall be taken by the Vice Grand as follows : " Shall the decision of the chair stand as the judgment of the Lodge?' THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 63 2. Before putting the question, the Noble Grand shall ask, " Is the Lodge ready for the question ? " If no member rise to speak, he shall rise and put it ; after he has risen, no member shall be permitted to speak upon it. Whilst the Noble Grand is addressing the Lodge, or putting a question, silence shall be observed in the Lodge-room. 3. The Noble Grand, or any member doubting the decision of the question, may call for a division of the Lodge; upon which division, those voting in the affirmative shall rise and stand until counted, after which those voting in the negative shall rise and stand until counted. The Warden shall count the vote, and report the number to the Noble Grand as each is ascer- tained. MOTIONS. 4. No motion shall be subject to debate until it shall have been seconded and stated from the chair ; it shall be reduced to writing at the request of any two members. 5. Any member offering a motion, or desiring to speak on any question, shall rise and address the Noble Grand, and be recognized by him ; he shall confine himself to the subject under debate, and avoid all personal, indecorous, and sarcastic language. 6. When a question is before the Lodge, no motion shall be in order, except, first, for the previous question ; second, to lie on the table. These two shall be decided without debate. Third, to postpone indefinitely ; fourth, to postpone for a cer- tain time ; fifth, to divide ; sixth, to commit ; seventh, to amend. All of which motions shall have precedence in the above order. 7. A motion for the "previous question," seconded by five members, shall preclude further amendment or debate, and the Noble Grand shall immediately arise and put the question thus, " Shall the main question be now put ? " If a majority vote in the affirmative, then the vote on pending amendments, and original motion, shall immediately be taken without amend- ment or debate. 8. No motion for a reconsideration shall be entertained, un- less made by a member who voted on the prevailing side in the 64 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. first instance. The motion to reconsider shall be made at the same or the next succeeding meeting, and cannot be entertained if longer delayed. 9. A motion to close is always in order after the regular business has been gone through (except when a vote under the previous question is pending) ; if decided in the affirmative, the Lodge must be closed in form. 10. The name of the member making a motion or offering a resolution shall be entered on the minutes. SPEAKING. 11. No member shall speak more than once on the same subject or motion, until all who desire it shall have had an opportunity of being heard, nor more than twice without per- mission from the chair. While speaking, each member shall designate the person spoken of by his proper rank or title. 12. No member shall be interrupted while speaking, except it be to call him to order, when he shall take his seat until the question of order is determined, when, if permitted, he may proceed with his remarks. 13. If two or more members rise to speak at the same time, the Noble Grand shall decide which is entitled to the floor. QUESTIONS. 14. When a blank is to be filled, the question shall be first taken on the highest sum or number, and the longest and latest time proposed. 15. Any member may call for a division of the question when the sense will admit of it. But a motion to strike out and in- sert shall be indivisible. 16. When a question is postponed indefinitely, it shall not be acted on again during that or the next succeeding stated meeting. 17. The affirmative of any question shall be first put, and then the negative. In matters of form, such as reading re- ports or other communications, withdrawing motions, &c., the reading may be ordered or the request granted by the Noble Grand stating "if no objections are raised" the reading shall THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 65 proceed, or the request shall be granted without the formality of a vote. VOTING. 18. Every member present entitled to vote on questions be- fore the Lodge, shall do so unless excused by the Lodge. 19. On the call of one-third of the members present, the names of all brothers voting in the affirmative and in the neg- ative shall be recorded in the minutes. 20. No member shall be permitted to speak or vote unless clothed in the regalia of his rank or station in the Lodge. COMMITTEES. 21. The person first named on a Committee shall act as chairman until another is chosen by the Committee. 22. Any member may excuse himself from serving on a Committee, if, at the time of his appointment, he is a member of two other Committees. 23. No Committee can be discharged until all the debts con- tracted by it are paid. IMPEOPEE CONDUCT. 24. Any member who shall misbehave in the meetings of the Lodge, by disturbing the order or harmony thereof, either by personally abusive or profane language, or disorderly con- duct, or who shall refuse obedience to the Noble Grand, shall first be admonished of his offence from the chair ; if he again offend, he shall be excluded from the room for the evening, and afterwards be dealt with as the By-Laws shall prescribe. 6* E 66 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE OFFICERS OF A LODGE. THE elective officers of a Lodge are, Noble-Grand, Vice-Grand, Secretary, Permanent Secretary, Record- ing Secretary, or, as in some jurisdictions, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, and Treasurer. The N. G., V. G., and Assistant Secretary are elected for six months, and during their term of office are generally the " relief committee," who visit the sick, report weekly on their condition, and receive from the Treasurer and pay the sick brother his weekly benefits. The Permanent Sec- retary (Secretary) and Treasurer are usually elected for one year. In nearly every Lodge there are elected an- nually three members as Trustees, and in some Lodges three or more who have the care of widows and orphans of deceased members. THE NOBLE-GRAND. THE elevation of a brother to the highest position in a Lodge, is a distinction of which he may reason- ably be proud. It confers upon him a dignity, and enti- tles him to present and prospective privileges, which, as an Odd-Fellow, he may justly regard of inestimable value. He should, therefore, having such an appre- ciation of the honor conferred upon him, endeavor, by his faithfulness to the Lodge, in both his official THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 67 and unofficial capacity, to evince his sense of grate- fulness for such honor. Much of the peace, harmony, and prosperity of the Lodge will, of course, depend upon him ; it is there- fore necessary that he should deeply impress on his mind the important duties of his station. In the per- formance of those duties he should be strictly honest and correct, and should by no means permit his feel- ings his "likes or dislikes" to interfere with the justice of his government or the integrity of his decis- ions. He should act without fear or partiality ; be zealous, yet temper his zeal with prudence ; and al- ways, even in the most trying circumstances, maintain a tranquil temper, a generous disposition, and an un- sullied veracity. If he acquire for himself a reputation for the most unbending integrity and firmness, his de- cisions and instructions will not only be received with respect, but attentively observed. By the laws of the Order he is required to support and maintain the rules and regulations of those bodies to which his Lodge is subordinate, and to enforce a strict adherence to the laws of his own Lodge ; he is instructed to enforce those laws, and to preserve, during all times, in his Lodge, the strictest order and decorum : he is expected to judge of every transaction that may come before him, while presiding over the deliberations of the Lodge, impartially and without prejudice. The N. G., being the head and director of the Lodge, is the legal custodian of its Charter, books of charges, and lectures, which he is required to preserve carefully during his term of office, and to see that they shall be delivered to his successor. He is also required to see that all officers of the Lodge and members of committees perform their respective duties, as enjoined 68 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. by the laws of the Order. He must appoint commit- tees; give the casting vote on every question where there is a tie ; inspect and announce the result of all ballotings or other votes of the Lodge ; convene spe- cial meetings of the Lodge when deemed expedient ; draw upon the Treasurer for all sums that have been voted by the Lodge. It is not proper for the N. G. to make any mo- tion or resolution, nor to take part in any debate, while in the chair. Neither does it appear well for him to leave the Lodge in charge of a brother, for the purpose of taking part in a debate. He has the right to advise and to speak generally, from his place, on any subject of a general nature for the good of the Order ; but he should not enter into the arena of de- bate, and make himself a party in any question before the Lodge. In the selection of his subordinate officers, the N. G. should be circumspect and discreet. He should endeavor to judge, from an observation of the intelli- gence of the brothers of his Lodge, which of them are best qualified to fill, with credit to the Lodge and them- selves, the various duties expected of them. Espe- cially should the Conductor and Warden of a Lodge be men of capacity and intelligence men who are competent to give the charges peculiar to their office in a dignified and impressive manner. The N. G. should by all means be attentive to the sick or distressed members of his Lodge. He should be the first to call on his brother in trouble or adver- sity, and sympathize with and aid him by his coun- sel or advice. Nor should he consider that this duty is not required of him, but only of the committee appointed for this purpose. Such is an erroneous THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 69 impression, which ought to be at all times corrected, wherever it prevails. It is as much consistent with the duty and obligations of the head of a Lodge to visit weekly his sick or disabled brothers, as it is for him to be present each week at the opening of his Lodge. And such sick or distressed brothers may properly feel aggrieved, if neglected by him to whom, as an Odd-Fellow, they naturally look for sympathy and condolence in their time of trouble. THE VICE-GRAND. THE Vice-Grand, who is second in authority in the Lodge, and who, if he conduct himself with propri- ety, is always sure to succeed to the highest place in the gift of his brethren, should regard the situation he occupies as one in which he has abundant facility to make himself acquainted with the duties and require- ments of the office he will, in a short time, be called upon to fill. During the term of his occupancy of the " lower chair," therefore, he should make it a part of his business to acquire a correct understanding of the laws he will be expected to enforce, and to study the dispositions and qualities of those he will be called upon to govern. By so doing, he will be pre- pared to perform, with credit to himself and advan- tage to the Lodge, the duties we have, in the prece- ding pages, described as those appertaining to the office^ of a Noble-Grand. It is expected of the Vice-Grand, while in the dis- charge of his office as such, that he will assist the N. G. in the execution of his duties, and use his utmost efforts to promote the harmonv and welfare of 70 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-UOOK. the Lodge, and to increase love among his brethren ; and that he will check or restrain every improper sen- timent that may be uttered by any brother, in or out of the Lodge. He must also carefully attend to the support of order in the Lodge : and it is his duty and his privilege to advise with the N. G. and to remind him of any omission of anything appertaining to his office and duty. At all times, when the N. G. is ab- sent, the V. G. takes his place and assumes his duties, and is, for the time being, the head of the Lodge, with all the authority of a principal officer. It is also his duty to appoint his own supporters (two in number) ; to assist in examining the ballotiugs for members; and to take especial charge of the ingress and egress of brothers to or from the Lodge. The V. G. also should make it his business to visit weekly his sick or afflicted brothers. He should not esteem this duty so lightly as to suppose that it attaches merely to the Visiting Committee and to his superior officer; but, as he is second in his Lodge, and must soon be first, he must remember, not only that much is expected of him in his present position, but that a visit from him, and a few words of encour- agement, to a brother in pain, will lighten that brother's burden, at the same time that they raise him in the estimation of all, who appreciate such conduct in those on whom honors and authority have been conferred by the brethren. THE SECRETARY. THE office of Secretary has been esteemed, by some, to be the most arduous ?nd responsible situation in a THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 71 Lodge. We would not wish to say that we agree with this opinion, nor would we underrate the useful- ness and labor of a Secretary ; but we are of opinion that every office, while it requires abilities suited to its nature, is more or less arduous, if it be faithfully filled. Yet the Secretary's is a most important post, and one which requires a capacity which compara- tively few men possess. A correct record of the pro- ceedings of all public bodies is most desirable. The Secretary of a Lodge should be quick of comprehen- sion, and possess the quality of writing, or in some way placing ideas promptly in his memory, so rapidly as to obtain an accurate record of every subject sug- gested or acted upon. For, frequently, matters of the greatest importance must be decided by a reference to his minutes of the proceedings. It is the duty of the Secretary to keep a correct and impartial record of all the proceedings of a Lodge ; to fill up summonses ; to write all letters and communi- cations that may be ordered by the Lodge or the N. G. ; to fill up certificates and cards ; to keep securely the seal and books ; to attest to all moneys ordered to be paid ; to furnish to the Grand Lodge (at the end of the term) a correct account of the condition of the Lodge ; and to answer, by direction of the Lodge, all communications that may be addressed to it.* * He usually receives pecuniary consideration for his services. Ordinarily, he is elected for one year. It is his duty to keep just and true accounts between the Lodge and its members ; to collect all dues, fines, and assessments, as soon as imposed, and report to the Lodge any brother neglecting to pay the same when duly noti- fied ; to enter the charges as they become due, and credit tho amounts as paid; and to pay them to the Treasurer immediately, tak- inghis receipt. He must,at the time required by the By-La ws,notify 72 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. The Secretary of a Lodge should endeavor to exer- cise toward his brethren, who may apply to him for information relative to matters in his charge, the utmost courtesy and forbearance. He should be willing to take some trouble to enlighten them on all subjects connected with his business, into which they have the right to inquire ; and in no case should he allow him self to be offended at what he may consider unneces- sary inquiry. There can be no secret rightfully kept from a brother of the Lodge. He has the right to de- mand information relative to everything that is done therein, whether it be in his presence or absence ; and as the Secretary is the servant of the Lodge, he must expect to be called upon for information concerning its transactions. THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY. THE first step towards the Noble-Grand's Chair, in several jurisdictions,is to be elected Assistant Secretary ; and in this direction the aspirations of the working members are directed. When secure in this office, it rarely happens that the brother's progress to advance- ment in the Order is arrested until he is crowned with the highest honors of his Lodge. When it is other- every member who is over thirteen weeks in arrears, of the amount due by him to the Lodge. At the end of each term, he must render to the Lodge an account of the state of his books. He must keep his accounts regularly posted, and be ready at all times to render statements of the arrears of the brethren, so that their rights be not abused. No person, however, is at liberty to interfere with his books, except the N. G. of his Lodge, or the Grand-Master or his Deputy. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT- BOOK. 73 wise, the fault is that of the brother himself, either from neglect of duty in his office, or from conduct unbecoming the Order, unfitting him for the responsi- ble and exalted position to which this office leads. It is the duty of the Assistant Secretary to assist the Secretary during the meetings of the Lodge, and in the absence of the Secretary to perform all the duties he has obligated himself to do; to visit the sick during the week, and faithfully to co-operate with the N. G. and V. G. in this important duty ; to be attentive to the details of Lodge business, so that he may be prepared to discharge with promptness and dignity the important duties that lie before him in the various positions to which he may be called. THE TREASURER. THE Treasurer of a Lodge occupies a responsible and important office, which should be always confided to a brother known to possess correct business habits and the strictest honesty. He should not only keep a rigidly correct account of his receipts and expendi- tures, but be always in possession in the Lodge of ample funds for the payment of benefits voted to the sick and distressed brothers, and for all other pur- poses. It is the duty of the Treasurer to receive at each meeting whatever funds may be paid into the hands of the Secretary (through which all moneys must pass), and be so correct, careful, and honest, as to give the Lodge the most complete confidence that it is secure 7 74 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. from any pecuniary loss. He should be ready, when- ever called upon, to inform the Lodge of its pecuniary condition, and be prepared to surrender, at any mo ment, his trust with honor, in case he should be desired to do so. It has been well and truly said, for the con- sideration and reflection of the Treasurer, that " on the proper management of the fiscal concerns of a Lodge mainly depends its ability to render assistance where it is needed, and at the time it may be required." No Lodge should omit, prior to his installation, to require of the Treasurer security conditioned for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office, no matter how ample his means apparently may be. If it is not required of a brother reputed rich, it might seem invidious to ask it of one who is esteemed less wealthy. It should, therefore, never be dispensed with. The security should be bona fide, so that no member may be under the unpleasant necessity of objecting at the installation. No motive of delicacy should suffer the funds of the Lodge to be in unsafe keeping. Many Lodges have been nearly ruined by this false delicacy. When a Lodge has a safe, attentive, and faithful Treasurer, it should continue to elect him so long as he can be prevailed upon to retain the office. THE CONDUCTOR. THE office of Conductor is a most important one one which few men, comparatively, are qualified to fill. The Conductor should be a competent reader, and understand something also of elocution. His duty is a peculiar one ; in fact, on the impressions he may THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK- 75 make often depend the subsequent conduct and use- fulness of the Odd-Fellow. THE WARDEN. THE Warden, also, should be competent to read well, and to make a proper impression on the neophyte. It is his duty, likewise, to see that the regalia for the use of the members, at the opening of the Lodge, is properly provided, and to collect and preserve it in a careful manner at the close. When a division is de- manded, when voting upon motions and resolutions, he counts the members voting on either side, and acts as messenger of the Lodge (during its sittings only) when desired to do so. He must also see that no improper person is in the Lodge at its opening. He must be a Scarlet Degree member. THE GUARDIANS. No office can be of more importance than that of Guardian. On the Guardian much depends. If he neglect or refuse to perform his duty, the Lodge might soon become a scene of confusion. It rests with him almost entirely whether an improper person shall enter the ante-chambers of the Lodge. He should therefore foe wary, and promptly require every person whom hs might suspect, to give a good account of himself, or report him to the proper officer. He should be a man of nerve, too one who would not for a moment hesi- tate to eject forcibly, if requisite, any person who might presume to deceive or intrude upon the Lodge. The Outside Guardian must be a Scarlet Decree member. 76 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE SUPPORTEKS. THESE officers are more useful and necessary to a Lodge than many are apt to suppose. They have duties to perform, which, in more than one sense, are important. Among these, not the least is that which requires them to call the attention of the presiding officers to any omission of the members. They should ever remember that the eyes of the brethren are upon them, and that on the faithful and correct performance of their duties depend in a great measure their pros- pect of future preferment, and final elevation to more responsible positions. THE CHAPLAIN. IT is optional with a Lodge whether to appoint a Chaplain or not. His duty is to open and close the meetings with prayer (using none other than the pre- scribed form), to attend at funerals of deceased broth- ers, and to officiate on all public occasions where the Lodge may require his attendance. It is scarcely ne- cessary to add that the Chaplain should be, if not a religious, at least a moral man. THE JUNIOR PAST-GRAND. ALTHOUGH the Junior P. G. is not, properly speak- ing, an officer of the Lodge, he holds a dignified and honorable position. He is looked upon as a sort of father as a person of experience, whose opinion is THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 77 of much weight and he should always be ready and competent to give correct counsel. The Lodge looks to him, as well as to the other Past-Grands, for exam- ple. He and they should therefore be regular attend- ants ; they should manifest a concern for the welfare of the Lodge and the members, and evince by their conduct that they have not lost their interest in the Or- der since they had received the highest honor their Lodge could bestow upon them. THE GAVEL. EVERY member of the Order is so familiar with the use of this instrument, as our emblem of authority, that it is scarcely necessary to advert to it in this Man- ual. We will merely say, however, that our familiarity with it as Odd-Fellows must not produce in our minds a forgetfulness of its suggestions. We must obey the authority it represents promptly and cheerfully ; thas shall order ever reign in our Lodge. THE COMMITTEES. 1. The Relief Committee. This is the most im- portant committee of the Lodge. It generally con- sists of the N. G., V. G., and (Assistant) Secretary ; but, where Lodges are large, other members act with them, by election or appointment. In choosing an Assistant Secretary, it should be remembered that he is likely to be a member of the committee for eighteen months, and the character of the Lodge in a measure depends on the discharge of his duty thereon. This 7* 78 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. committee (or a member of it) should deem it their solemn duty to visit a sick brother immediately on learning the fact of his illness. And they should, in their turn, each visit such brother once at least during the week, and report such visits to the Lodge at its meeting. "We can not too strongly express the " solemn obligation" of this committee. How unlike the true spirit of Odd-Fellowship what a mockery of what we as Odd-Fellows profess is the neglect of a man, specially appointed for the purpose of carry- ing out one of the commands of our Order, to aid and comfort his sick brother ! We are all subject to sickness ; every one of us, in his turn, may some day need the presence and assistance of a member of our fraternity. Oh ! if we refuse our assistance now to those who need it and that even after we have specially promised it by accepting a certain posi- tion in our Lodge what can we say if, when our time shall come, we shall suffer by a similar neglect? The duties of this Committee of Relief do not mere- ly consist in visiting and conversing with a sick brother : not merely in saying, " How do you feel to-day ?" or. " I hope you will soon be better." No ! they extend beyond this. They teach us to speak cheerfully to him to encourage him to lead his thoughts away from the natural anxieties of a sick man. They teach us to approach him with a warm heart and a pleasant smile ; and they also remind us that it is oivr privilege to carry to him any little article of fruit, or other dainty, which might be pleasant to his taste, or conduce to his comfort.* * I can not resist the impulse to speak here of a matter per- sonal to myself; for it illustrates so beautifully the true spirit }f OJd- Fellowship. In 1844, while a member of old Jefferson THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 79 There are other duties of this committee, which our space will not permit us to enumerate and enforce. But there is one other that we will mention as of the utmost importance. It is this : Should a brother die, and leave a family necessitous, they should not only report such fact to the Lodge, but should see that the proper committee use every diligence to relieve their necessities, and guard the orphans from exposure to the vices that surround them. Lodge, No. 46, New York, I was so unfortunate as to receive a dangerous injury by a "runaway" horse, which confined, me to my room for several months. As I had previously led a very active life, it may be reasonably supposed that confinement was torture to me. But during my illness a brother of my Lodge,* who resided some distance from me, made it a part of his busi- ness to call on me nearly if not quite every day. And he ap- peared with such a pleasant smile, and so buoyantly, so cheer- fully and hopefully, and sat and talked at my bedside with so much interest and earnestness, that his presence came to be an oasis in the darkness and gloom of my sick-chamber. I would look out of the window, at the dreary brick walls of the opposite side of the street, and comfort myself with the thought that to-morrow my brother would corne and compensate me by his presence for the monotony of to-day. The very idea of his coming would bring to my mind the green fields, and the flow- ers, and the rambles of the country, or the busy world of the c : ty, where I longed once more to be. Thus, day by day, did he appear, and encourage me, and lead my mind away from my loneliness, and by his hopeful conversation so enliven my spirits a-> to make me a poor cripple that could scarcely move hijipij ! Oh ! how much better is it thus to be the instrument <.f such happiness, imparted to the unfortunate, than to wrap oneself up in selfishness for neglect to perform similar offices tor our brother is the grossest selfishness and pass our leisure time in an idleness that is a curse to ourselves and a most inhu- man injustice to our neighbor! p. D. * Why should I hesitate to tell his name ? The Rev. BENJAMIN B. HALIOCK, late of Mohawk village, Herkimer county, N. Y., was not a man to be either flat- tered or offended by a statement of a fact, intended for the general good. 80 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK 2. The Committee of Investigation. This is anoth- er most important committee. Its duties are of the gravest description. On it depends, in a very great measure, the good or evil reputation of the Lodge. It may be said to be the shield of the Lodge against the entrance of corrupt characters who would disgrace Odd-Fellowship. Hence each member of this com- mittee should make it his business, not only to ascer- tain from others the general conduct of a candidate, but also to see and converse with that person himself; to see how he lives at home, and who are his associ- ciates, what are his habits, &c. It has been stated that some members of investigating committees do not even make the least inquiry out of the Lodge, but re- port on the candidate at a hazard ! It is sincerely hoped, for the honor of the Order, that there are few such Odd-Fellows ; and we will add, as our opinion, that any brother who would be thus remiss is deserv- ing of a severe public reprimand from his Lodge ; for he surely is a most gross violator of the solemn prom- ises he has made, as well as of the plainest obligation of a member of this Order. 3. The Auditing Committee. It is the duty of this committee to inspect and audit the accounts of the Secretary and Treasurer, or other officers or com- mittees charged with the receipt or expenditure of money of the Lodge ; and to report in writing, as speed- ily as possible, on all matters they may have in hand. They should be prompt, unprejudiced, and just; and should neither conceal nor exaggerate an error or a dishonest act of those with whom they have to deal. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 81 If they find a brother to have been a defaulter, they should carefully investigate the circumstances of such defalcation, and ascertain whether he can redeem his lost credit ; and if he can, and do, in a reasonable time, they should admonish and forgive him. By this course, perhaps, they save not only a pecuniary loss, but pre- vent the ruin of a brother whose intentions were never eventually to wrong the Lodge. We do not mean by this that a defaulter should be screened and permitted to escape punishment : we mean that a brother should not be driven into hopeless dishonesty by an unrea- sonable haste, or a bitter and unnecessary persecution. 4. The Committee on Claims (or the Widows' and Orphans' Committee). This committee, when provided for, should be elected by the Lodge annually, and may consist of three or more brothers. Its duty is to attend to the welfare of the widows and orphans of deceased brothers, and see that they do not want for anything absolutely required for their health and comfort. They should visit such widows and orphans at least once in each month, and render any service, reason- able and necessary, which may seem to be called for. Great responsibility rests on this committee, and they should not shrink from it. On them devolves, in an eminent degree, the direction of the minds of the orphans of their dead brother, and they should exercise the control and authority of a father over those bereaved children. Can any office be more responsible? "Good men and true" should be this committee on claims ! 5. The Trustees. There should be a Board of Trustees, consisting of three members, one of whom should be elected at each semi-annual election to serve F 82 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. eighteen months. It is the duty of the Trustees to in- vest such funds as shall be placed in their hands for that purpose, collect the interest thereon, call in the same when directed so to do, have a general supervision over all the property of the Lodge, and perform such other duties appertaining to their position as may be required of them. They have no authority to call upon the Treasurer for money unless they present an order properly voted by the Lodge and signed by the proper officers. 6. The Committee for the Investigation of Charges, and for the Trial of a Brother. This is anothei most important committee. It is a committee of judges, and should be a discriminating and an impartial one. It should be an intelligent one. It should consist of men of firmness, such as would have "justice done, though the heavens fall." It should not be in too great haste, but take sufficient time to weigh and con- sider well the business it has to perform. While it should not screen the guilty, it must not hesitate to shield the innocent. Too many charges have been pre- ferred in this Order from malicious motives ; too many from frivolous causes ; too many from pecuniary diffi- culties. We have known a man to bring: a charge o o against a brother who owed him (the charger) money which he could not pay ; which charge the Lodge re- ceived, and afterward permitted the base complainant to withdraw : yet the poor brother, had he possessed the friends and the means, might have crushed the wretch who, in the very temple of " Friendship, Love, and Truth " Heaven save the mark ! sought an in- famous revenge. This committee must discriminate between such men and those who bring charges only THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 83 for the general good. They must weigh and examine well the probable motive of the prosecutor; and, if they find it unworthy, whether the brother charged be proven innocent or guilty, they should cause a search- ing investigation to be made of the whole matter be- tween the two. They must not suffer wealth, or stand- ins:, or influence, to blind them ; the sword of Justice O' should descend on the guilty, whether he be Croesus or Lazarus. Neither fear nor favor, neither pity nor regret, should lighten that blow in the weight of a single hair. PAYMENT OF DUES. BROTHER, " whenever you visit this Lodge, you must immediately, after addressing the officers, attend the Secretary, and pay him your weekly dues, or you will be liable to a fine." Such were the words that for- merly were addressed to the newly-initiated brother as a part of his instructions. So much has been said and written on this matter, and so really and palpably important is it to every member of the Order, that it is scarcely possible to present any new idea on the subject. The payment of dues is so necessary to the life and being of an Odd- Fellow, as such, and of the Order at large, that a gen- eral failure in it would destroy us and our means of good in a year's time. We would advise the brother- hood by all means to pay in advance. Those who find it difficult to command or to spare the necessary amount for a quarter's dues, should pay weekly. Ten or fifteen cents paid each week would not be missed, 84 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. and any brother can easily do it ; but even this it would be well to pay a week in advance. Brothers, keep yourselves beyond the reach of accident. Pay in advance, for the Grand Lodge of the United States has decided that no brother who may be taken sick or become disabled while in arrears to the Lodge of more than three months' dues, can by the payment of his arrearages become beneficial during that sickness or disability. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 85 ATTENDANCE AT THE LODGE. IT is the duty of an Odd-Fellow to be vigilant and attentive. By this we mean that he should not only be strict in the payment of his dues to the Lodge, but that he should also be a punctual and regular attendant there. No brother can be fully impressed with his duty as an Odd-Fellow who attends only once or twice in a year, and then merely for the purpose of paying his dues. The reasonable inference would be, that such a man had become a member of the Fraternity for the extremely selfish object of obtaining pecuniary advantage, and that he could not, or would not, see any excellence in the system beyond that of its benefi- cial character. This, unfortunately, is a " too common error," and he who is under its influence should be at once undeceived. If brothers absent themselves from the regular meetings of the Lodge, those who do at- tend will naturally feel indignant or grieved, or both, and consider that a slight has been put upon them : and those who are not members, observing the careless- ness of brethren in this matter, will be apt to think that there must be very little attraction in Odd-Fellowship, when those who are connected with the Lodge appear to feel so little interest in its prosperity. Every broth- er should be at his Lodge, weekly if possible, but cer- tainly once in each month. A general attendance at the meetings makes them interesting, and is an encour- agement to officers and members. Let it be therefore ever borne in mind that punctual attendance at the Lodge is an essential duty of every Odd-Fellow. 8 86 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. BEHAVIOR IN THE LODGE. BROTHERS, during the work-hours of the Lodge should conduct themselves with the utmost propriety and decorum. We would call particular attention to this subject. It is the object of all our ceremonies to make a good as well as indelible impression on the minds of those who would become Odd-Fellows. There is a solemnity in the " work" a reality in the em- blems a truth in the official instructions which should not be trifled with. It would seem to be a mere farce to ask another to be serious, while all around him are talking and laughing. We do not say that any Lodge has so far forgotten its dignity as to act thus we accuse none but we say plainly, that, if any Lodge should perform its work in the midst of confusion or uproar, it would bring a scandal upon the Order, for which it would deserve to be severely reprimand- ed. Such conduct, indeed if indulged and permitted for a single evening, would soon show its fruits out, of the Lodge. We may rely upon it, the world would soon laugh at us, if we should begin the joke ourselves. If we wish to have our " mysteries" preserved, there- fore, we must most sincerely respect them, and thus give an example which will command respect from others. Brothers should also be attentive in the Lodge to its regular business ; they should listen to whatever may be proceeding, in order that they may be able to vote upon it with a correct apprehension of its propriety or importance. Neither should a brother " dodge" a question, or refuse or neglect to vote upon it, without a very substantial reason. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT- BOOK. 87 BEHAVIOR OUT OF THE LODGE. ODD-FELLOWS should endeavor to convince the world, by their conduct as neighbors and citizens, that the teachings and objects of their Institution tend to make them wiser and better men. They should be upright and correct in their dealings should be char- itable and benevolent willing to relieve the distresses and wants of the poor, when they may do so consist- ently. They should be industrious and virtuous, and .provide for those dependent upon them. The Odd- Fellow who behaves ill to his family, either personally in not providing for their wants, or by idling away his time in dissipation and drunkenness, should be accused before his Lodge, and condemned for conduct unbe- coming his profession. It is well enough for Odd-Fellows to encourage each other in business, preferring to employ brothers rather than strangers, provided they can be accommodated equally as well. This they are not of course enjoined to do by the laws of the Order ; but they may as broth- ers prefer one another, and no reasonable man can consistently complain of such preference. Brothers should be strictly cautious in their conver- sations and communication with others relative to the business of their Lodges. They should not only make no improper discovery to the uninformed, but they should also not, by any hint or double entendre, excite the curiosity of the world. They should never forget that curious people are constantly on the alert to catch at any word on this subject which, they imagine, may enlig'iten them with reference to our " secrecy." 88 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. DUTY OF ONE MEMBER TOWARD ANOTHER. EVERY one should feel and display a deep interest in the prosperity of the society in which he has a part. Its interests are his interests; he, too, is a professed supporter of its objects ; he is, as far as his abilities go, responsible for its proceedings ; he will actively concern himself for the faithful preservation of its tenets ; he will rejoice in its peaceful state of activity. This only is to be accomplished by a continued affa- bility and familiarity of manner toward those among whom he associates ; austerity, pride, and pedantry, are the three greatest enemies to such a consummation : he will not, therefore, by exercising an undue degree of the baneful tendency of self-opinion, destroy that fellow-feelmg so requisite among all who enter a Lodge- room. Let no degree of slight originate between us, because the individual who sits next us has, by his ordinary avocation, a more grimy dye upon his fea- tures, or the shallowness of his purse causes his coat to be made of a coarser material than our own. His interests in the Lodge are conjointly formed with ours ; consequently, so long as the principles of the Order are held in deference and esteem by him, he deserves the same mark of respect from us which perchance is due from us to others of a higher caste. Again, let not the latter party imagine a slight where none is meant. His fellow-member's carriage and deportment in common life may seem to rank nigh to pedantry, or his style of language and general comportment seem like affectation ; still, however dissonant it may be to THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 89 our own feelings, he may hold good the principles ol Odd-Fellowship, and condemnation of his demeanor is not justifiable without sufficient proof to his prejudice. On either hand we must withhold judgment until ex- perience shall have decided us. Particularities should have very little to do with the Order, which is noble and plastic, is meant for the world, and is adapted for man in all his diversified circumstances ; equality and brotherhood should be our greatest aim. In all our dealings, all our discussional points, let us not assume a loftier degree of superiority than the most well-founded pretensions can warrant ; neither let us lack spirit enough to think ourselves inferior to those who by dint of pleasing though powerful language may carry an argument, when the smallest iota of sound i sason may tell us we excel them. To dwell on our own distinctive points, or those of other parties, has an alienating and divisive tendency. The very nature of things tells us that arrogant pretensions en- kindle resistance ; that ascendency generates discon- tent; that insolence awakens scorn. Again, fear pro- duces contempt ; truculence strengthens authority ; adulation confirms pride. To enjoy more fully the desirable connection which our frequent intercourse affords, we should ever grace our conduct to each other with mildness, and generosity, and frankness, and confidence ; always open to advice when needful, whether it emanate from those whom we may consider a grade below us, or from those in a station superior to our own ; and ever ready to perform the same office to others, as far as in us lies, without pride and arro- gance, always remembering that cordial affability gen- erally begets esteem. Under any other system social 8* 90 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. kindness dies away, and jealousy, resentment, and envy, usurp its place. But what need be said more than this "we are members one of another," and we should ever nourish a feeling of brotherly love to all who join us. The "law of love" is the rule of Chris- tian intercourse: let not a perversion of its principles be shown among Odd-Fellows. To every one we should stand ready to exercise kindness, gentleness, forbearance, fidelity. To any that are erring from the strict path of rectitude, we should be assiduous in im- parting warning, reproof, and instruction thereby ce- menting more firmly the bonds which endear us. To the afflicted we should administer, as far as ability will admit, to their comfort ; at the same time manifest our sympathy. By thus bringing together our good inten- tions, and combining their influences, every individual will partake of the general energy. Our scattered light will thus be concentrated into one orb, shedding a lus- trous halo on all around. Toward those who are elected our officers let us exercise a beseeming degree of respect and deference, that they may find we do not set an idle value upon the offices they fill. By our own voice they preside over us, and consequently we virtually engage to accept their instruction in all that pertaineth to the good of the Order. Hence, members of the Order are expected to welcome official admonition, reproof, and advice. We mean no slavish mental or bodily fear or adulation no sacrifice of conscience or judgment ; but a readi- ness to hear the inculcation of the different principles of the Order a uniform obedience to its laws, how- ever apparently disagreeable. This is a duty we sol- emnly promise when we enter a Lodge, and to swerve THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 91 from such duty is a gross violation of honor as a man and an Odd-Fellow. Odd-Fellowship is, in our opinion, founded on the strictest principles of piety ; and we must perceive, in its social regulations, that the happiness of an individ- ual member must rise or fall in proportion to the inter- est he feels in the welfare of his- fellow-members, and for the preservation of the Order in common. Like the heavenly bodies, which are preserved in their rela- tive position to each other by their common attraction to the sun, Odd-Fellows are kept in unison with each other by their attachment to principles which directly govern them. Those who can not heartily perform the social duties of Odd-Fellowship, want an essential mark of fellow-feeling to mankind in general. What other proof need be afforded of the efficacy and moral tendency of the Order, than the increasing, and rapid, and astonishing progress it has made throughout the world within the last few years? As the light of intel- lect improves, Odd-Fellowship will acquire adherents and keep pace with it. Wherever it once becomes known, its benign influences are embraced, and no excitement is needed to blazon forth its precepts to accumulate disciples. Opposition has been made to it is likely to be made by the base, the self-suffi- cient, and the unworthy ; but its purity has ever stood the fiery ordeal, and come forth in more vivid colors its pristine brightness untarnished, unsullied. Let us, then, persist in the glorious work we have commenced, with vigor and unflinching stability ; let our bark, while sailing on the extensive ocean of Fel- lowship, be guided by the compass of justice ; and, if we may continue the metaphor, let us perse'veringly 92 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. pursue the track its needle indicates ; that, when ar- rived at our destined haven, we may, with a pure con- sciousness of having supported to the utmost our pur- pose of benevolence and charity, securely recline our heads on the satisfactory pillow of contentment, and indulge in the aspiring hope that when summoned from this sublunary sphere, we may meet with an eternal welcome in that " angel-land" where " sorrow intrudes not" where "the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest !" CHARITY SHOULD DISTINGUISH ODD FELLOWS. AMONG the several moral virtues, Charity occupies a very prominent station. It is not, indeed, so much an independent virtue, as it is the element in which the other virtues move and operate. Its influence is remote, rather than immediate ; and its excellence is seen to the best advantage, when observed in the various accidents and circumstances of practical life. When we think of Charity, we think of it rather as an energy to give tone and character to other graces, than of something which is in itself a grace. Performed in the true spirit of Charity, the simplest act wears an aspect of beauty and sublimity ; apart from its pres- ence and influence, the most important action appears altogether hideous and revolting. Hence, an inspired writer has aptly called it " the very bond of perfect- ness ;" which is, in effect, to constitute it a sort of atmosphere for the other virtues to move in. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 93 Charity is that universal feeling of good-will and kindness, which, rejecting local circumstances and prejudices, is willing to embrace the breathing uni- verse in the spirit of concession and compromise : and which, where its object is smitten by the hand of pov- erty, is desirous of displaying itself in acts of pecu- niary assistance. If we would make a just estimate of its importance, let us look abroad upon the face of the peopled earth. Let us observe the myriads upon myriads of active beings dwelling upon its surface, who, as civil and social beings, are bound together mainly by the cold law of selfishness ; consider the numerous weaknesses and errors of human judgment ; mark the perpetual liabilities to collision of feeling and interest ; and we may then be prepared to form some idea of the importance of Charity. It is true that man, as an individual, possesses sympathies and incli- nations that lead to seek with avidity the fellowship of his species ; but, so soon as he enters into a state in society, his feelings of selfishness gain the ascendency of all the rest : hence the necessity of some strong opposing principle, which shall be, in fact, the great conservative principle of humanity. Such a principle is Charity. Like an angel of mercy, it has gone forth into the various departments of society with " healing in ics wings ;" often humbling and subduing the proud oppressor's heart ; and ever seeking to soothe the wretched and disconsolate. The monuments of Charity are more enduring than those of the hero ; for they speak not of devastation and blood, but of positive deeds of mercy that can never be forgotten, until nature has forgotten to do its wonted work upon the memory of man. And while 94 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. systems that have grown weak from age shall have fallen with a crash that shall shake the earth, it will be the province of Charity to gather up the fragments that lay around, and march on, to shape to better purposes the destiny of the coming period. But, if Charity be thus important in itself, institu- tions tending to extend and perpetuate its influence must be of vast utility also. Such an institution is Odd-Fellowship. It is based upon the purest prin ciples of equality, extending like privileges and immu- nities to all its membership ; and, rejecting all prefer- ence for any particular creed in religion, it clings, with the utmost tenacity, to those great moral principles which are shadowed forth in the impressions of nature, and confirmed by the precepts of Divine Revelation. Its membership, particularly those of more elevated condition, should learn to lay aside feelings of pride and ostentation, by the frequent recurrence of scenes of sorrow and wretchedness ; while from those scenes they should gather a practical commentary upon the unstable character of earthly pomp and glory. Les- sons taught by example are more thrilling than those gathered from the history of past events. There is no school so good as that of self-experience. We read of events of gone-by generations, as things about which we are concerned but little ; and of those who were long since subjected to the sad fluctuations of earth!} fortune, we are too apt to feel that they were beings with whose destinies our own are but slightly identified. We read of Xerxes, who marshalled his millions upon the plains of Asia-Minor, and fancied himself capable of shaking the pillars of the universe. A moment more, we see him flying from a handful of detested THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 95 Grecians. We read of Tadmor in the desert, whose splendor almost added additional lustre to the sun Alas, she is gone now ! and she and Xerxes sleep in the same oblivious tomb. We read the sad illustration of the fleeting nature of earthly glory : it is an old story ; and our hearts turn away but slightly affected. But when from a tragedy, which was acted many cen- turies ago, we turn aside to gaze, for ourselves, upon a scene of wo and wretchedness, the tear of sympathy will glisten in the eye, and the visage, despite of itself, will begin to express the commiseration that rules the heart within. Such feelings indicate the true spirit of Charity ; and such feelings Odd-Fellowship is well calculated to create and preserve. But while Odd-Fellowship thus fosters Charity, and extends its influence as a social principle, it strips it of its most revolting character, when made to assume the garb of almsgiving. To a sensitive being, how- ever desolate his condition, the idea of being the receiver of accidental charity is a loathsome thing. This feeling Odd-Fellowship takes away, since, in sending its alms to the desolate widow who stands in silent but. speaking wretchedness over the couch of her deceased husband it places it in her hands as that which is hers by right of inheritance. This is an incalculable good. It is not enough that alms be given : they must be so given that the subject does not feer. the sad necessity he is under to receive them. Otherwise, in relieving an immediate necessity, alms- giving would often lead to a remote and fearful evil, by making its subject repine at his lot, and curse the hard hand of Providence for subjecting him to so sad u state of vassalage. 90 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. In promoting Odd-Fellowship, then, we are sub- serving the best interests of humanity by advancing Charity. Together may they run out into the variou? departments of society, until they shall have com- passed the four corners of the earth ! And while Charity shall erect its temple in every land, may benevolence and love rule the feeling of every breast ! THE PROPOSAL OF CANDIDATES. THIS is unquestionably one of the most essential matters, in reference to Odd-Fellowship, that can be suggested ; and we shall, therefore, speak plainly, though we trust not harshly, upon it. If we assert that much harm has resulted from negligence or hasti- ness in this business, we trust that those who may have been to blame will take no offence, but that they will " make haste" to atone, in some measure, for the evil they have done, by restraining others from following their example. There was an old charge (and an excellent one), which Odd-Fellows heard very often, and which might still, with much propriety, be impressed on their minds. The spirit of Innovation has " flung" that good old sentence of advice, with some other good things, into the shade ; but we shall print it here, with the hope that some thousands of Odd-Fellows, now and hereaf- ter, will read and ponder it. It is as follows: " Should you, at any time, propose a friend to be- come a member of this Order, see that he be such a THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 97 man as will be likely to conform to the, rules and pre- cepts of Odd-Fellowship ; for nothing is so painjul to the feelings of faithful Odd-Fellows as to see the requirements of the Institution trampled upon and profaned" With such an injunction as this impressed upon the mind, surely no Odd-Fellow could conscientiously be instrumental in bringing an unworthy person into the Fraternity. He would be careful to propose no such character. It will not do to say that a bad man may be expelled, and that his admission, therefore, will produce no harm. For when a worthless character once gains access to a Lodge, and is enrolled among its members, although it is true we can always remove him from a place he is unfit to fill, yet, as every one has some friends, the cure, in this case, is at least as bad as the disease. How much better is it to be care- ful, and allow no such person to be even proposed ! If a person heedlessly rush into danger, and break a limb, or engender a pestilential fever, his physician may restore him to health ; but how preferable to the physician would prevention have been ! So, more mischief can be avoided, and more good effected, by employing our vigilance and caution in proposing can- didates, than in healing*the wounds caused by unworthy men after they have once entered our halls and been initiated into our mysteries. It is a lamentable fact, and one which has done us, as an Order, more harm than all the opposition of our enemies, that there have been bad men introduced among us. We can not deny this fact, humiliating as it is, but we can surely prevent a repetition of occurrences so much to be deprecated. 98 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. We would not undertake to set up any particular standard or rule in this matter ; but we would suggest that any brother who proposes for Odd-Fellows men whose characters are known to be bad, violates, as a member of our Brotherhood, every principle of honor, and deserves himself expulsion from any Lodge which ho thereby so deeply disgraces and injures. Scoffers, bigots, gamblers, drunkards, slanderers, liars, sensual- ists, misers, swindlers, men who abandon wives and children, men who "grind the faces of the poor" should no more be admitted into an Odd-Fellows' Lodge than the thief or the murderer ! Every man who becomes a member of a Lodge, signs his name to a written or printed paper, in which occurs something like the following: "Any person not under twenty-one years of age, of good moral character and industrious habits, and exempt from all infirmities which may prevent his gaining a livelihood for himself and family, shall be eligible to membership in this Lodge. Brothers, before proposing a candidate for membership, must first ascertain if he is qualified according to the pre- ceding conditions ; his name must then be submitted, and, at the time of making the proposition, the sum of blank dollars must be deposited with the Secretary ; and in case the candidate shbuld not come forward within six weeks after being notified of his election (unless prevented by some sufficient cause), he shall forfeit the same, and it shall be paid over to the Widow and Orphans' Fund, and the proposition shall be void ; but should he be rejected, the amount so paid shall be refunded. When a proposi- tion for membership has been made, the same shall THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 99 be referred to a Committee of three brothers, who shall report at the next regular meeting, when the candidate shall be balloted for, and if he receive an unfavorable vote, the same can in no case be recon- sidered ; unless all the members who voted black balls, voluntarily, in open Lodge, declare they did so by mistake. Every member, on being admitted into this Lodge, shall sign the Constitution and By-Laws thereof, agreeing to support the same and pay all legal demands against him so long as he remains a member of this Lodge ; he shall also ,furnish the Secretary with his residence, and, in case of removal, shall notify him within three w.eeks thereafter." This is what Odd-Fellows should consider carefully, in all its bearings, ere they propose any man, no matter how much a friend he may be, to the Order. DISCIPLINE OF ODD-FELLOWSHIP. HUMAN nature is formed of a material so frail in texture, that, however plausible may be its tenor for a time unless bound by an adamantine chain of reso- lution temptation soon makes an inroad upon its ter- ritories, and wantonly destroys all its barriers, all its good intentions. It cannot therefore be surprising that in a Fraternity of over 450,000, let their designs be ever so pure, some means must be taken to exercise a spirit of consistency among them, having for its object the perpetuity of the cause and the benefit of each in- dividual Every human institution provides against 100 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. departures from the purpose and spirit of its establish- ment. We see the Society of Friends a fraternity 1 whose apathy to form is proverbial, where it can in the slightest case be dispensed with even they have rules framed so as to protect its principles against the possi- bility of perversion. Every bill for the enclosure of a waste or the construction of a railway is marked by the suspicious prudence of mankind in dealing with their brethren. Now in scarcely any other case is there so great danger of innovation as in the case of Odd-Fel- lowship a tender plant in an ungenial soil. Hence our General Laws, hence our By-Laws : how they operate, the increasing prosperity of the Order shows. To prevent a general decay, we must put forcible re- strictions upon a defaulter. We must have control somewhere. It is nothing but reasonable, therefore, that a government be formed, like that of the Grand Lodge of the United States, for the guidance of the whole, and the preserving a general and perpetual spirit of uniformity. If we are to remain a company of unflinching advocates in the cause of philanthropy, we must exact an unrelaxing discipline from all. The object to be kept in view is the purity of the Order and the good of all who oppose its interests by a base perversion of its principles. Still we are to avoid all rashness, all hasty conclusions. Reproof should be administered where a disposition is shown to infringe upon a law, and that in a serious manner, " with great meekness and pity," and with perfect impartiality. Admonition will often bring an erring brother to con- trition. St. Paul treats admirably on this point, when writing to the church at Thessalonica : "Note that man, and have no company with him, that he may he THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 101 ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but ad- monish him as a brother." In every case of infrac- tion the object should be to " restore" an offender, rather than to punish or expel him. We see, then, the necessity of not entirely abandoning those who err : they should be warned, and, if possible, convinced of their departure from rule, that they may be " restored in the spirit of meekness." Persons are placed in a very delicate situation who incur the censure of a Lodge, and ought to feel and know the dishonor and danger that fall, not only upon themselves, but upon the Order in particular; for the prejudice of the world is strong, and many who " lie in wait for our halting" would rejoice at the prospect of our downfall. Earnest adherence to rule is particularly necessary to Odd-Fellowship. We must never allow discipline to be relaxed, as the number of cases, which may by such means require it, increase, and the Order must contain many who are indisposed to employ the goodly resoluteness. Hence, too, non j save such as entertain a strict desire for the prosperity of the Order, can be expected to maintain a real discipline. Many " roots of bitterness" will spring up in Lodges, and we can not expect to arrive at so desired a state of perfectness but some will be "found wanting;" for whereunto is the palace that foul things sometimes intrude not? The time must eventually arrive when our elder brethren will be " gathered to their fathers," and the guidance of the Order devolve on the younger mem- bers. If, then, we indulge in odious petty differences now, we must bid farewell to the tranquillity, content, and peace, exhibited and enjoyed to-day, and dread the anarchy, confusion, and turbulence, that will assu- 9* 102 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. redly prevail to-morrow. " Can such things be, ana overcome us, like a summer's cloud, without our spe- cial wonder?" To obviate so dire an aspect in the perspective, so bitterly repugnant to the feelings of every true Odd-Fellow, so utterly at variance with the purposes for which our praiseworthy Institution was founded, let us, by our uniform adherence to its prin- ciples, evince our determination to secure unviolated, unsullied, without stain and without alloy, the purity of Odd-Fellowship in our own day. A decided enforcement of discipline is necessary in the promotion of unity among us, without which we may, as the numerous sands on a seabeach, lie in acci- dental proximity in a seeming connectedness with each other but, upon a more superficial observance, our manifold and important parts are wofully disjointed. We must exhibit a solidity of purpose and principle entirely connected. We must, like a mass of gold, uniformly allow all our parts and particles to adhere and combine; and so evince an ardent desire of reso- lution to fulfil the important duties we are called upon to perform in a manner that will reflect credit on the Order, and convey satisfaction to ourselves. We must, by unity, not only constitute a great number, but a great ONE. We must be united in both common interests and reciprocal esteem. THK ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 103 PRINCIPLES OF ODD-FELLOWSHIP. ONE of the fundamental rules of life, laid down by our great Master, is, to " do unto others as ye would that others should do unto you." An injunction ema- nating from so divine a Source, can not fail to inspire every rational being with that sense of social fellowship which is due from one created individual to another, and must, therefore, elevate his mind to a perfection of purity far above the common feelings of life. This, we apprehend, was the chief intention of our ancestors, in guiding them to the attainment and general spread of Odd-Fellowship throughout the universe. The ordinary obligations of Odd-Fellowship are attached to the members of Lodges in their collective charac- ter; but there are some positive and some negative duties, arising therefrom, which specially belong to such members ; every brother is required to have faith, and all the virtues therein composed are to be evinced by him. Before entering on this topic, it may be useful to notice, generally, the purposes of Odd-Fellowship. Odd-Fellowship is the exercise of the social principle in matters of common life the junction of men who agree in views, and tastes, and purposes, for their joint assistance and united endeavors for providing relief in the hour of need. It is not confined to one particular 104 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. occasion, or limited to one transaction ; it extends its advantages to all who recognise each other as mem- bers who rank under one common head ; ever) expression of fraternal regard, every participation in the enjoyments of friendship, every act of sympathy and benevolence, as truly belongs to the principles of Odd-Fellowship, as the celebration of a natal day. Such ought to be the predominant feature displayed in the conduct of all who enter a Lodge-room. In truth, if we are strangers to communion with our brothers on other occasions, it is impossible for us to enjoy it there ; for the mind is not a piece of mechan- ism, which can be set going at pleasure, whose move- ments are obedient to the call of time and place. Nothing short of habitual sympathy, springing from the cultivation of benevolent feeling and the interchange of kind offices, will secure that reciprocal delight, that social pleasure, which are the soul of our communion. Our frequent flow of benevolence should not be limited to those who belong to the Order alone, but to all our fellow-creatures, when time and circumstance give oc- casion, in order that we may more cheerfully fulfil kind intentions to those who have a more immediate claim upon our liberality in the Order ; as, if such sentiments do not sway our bosoms upon ordinary occasions, how can we voluntarily, and without a struggle, perform an act of good-will to our individual Lodge-members? And when a moiety is contributed with a turbulent spirit, the recipient had much rather remain in his penurious state than seek relief from such a donor. Thus Odd-Fellowship requires its vo- taries to manifest a feeling of benevolence in public as well as private ; the one will naturally lead us to THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK- 105 perform good deeds toward the other : therefore, if we fail on the one hand, a total neglect and indifference will arise on the other. To advance the principles of Odd-Fellowship, it is necessary to cultivate and enter-- tain its foremost purpose, the benign spirit of philan- thropy, as regards the welfare of others. Can we, without compunction, exercise benevolence to our in- dividual relatives, if we exhibit a dereliction of that principle for a stranger ? Can we imitate the timely compassion of a Samaritan, if we foster the detestable feelings of vicious pride and contempt of a Levite? " When" asks Cowper " When was public virtue found Where private was not ? Can he love the whole Who loves no part ? he be a nation's friend, Who is, in truth, the friend of no man there ? Can he be strenuous in his country's cause, Who slights the charities for whose dear sake That country, if at all, must be beloved ?" Thus, then, we may conclude that the principles of Odd-Fellowship as much depend upon our general conduct out of the Order, as our character in common life depends upon our energetic fulfilment of disciple- ship in the Order. A constant provision (which is the great object of Odd-Fellowship) against the needs of brethren, is an operation and display of principle far more exalted in the eyes of all good men than the incidental manifesta- tion of charity, under the impulse of a momentary sympathy. To lay by a store of bounty for suffering and needy brethren, is to treasure up love and happi- ness in the heart is a work of principle far surpassing the acts of a temporary compassion ; it is the founda- tion-stone on which the sublime structure of Odd-Fel- 106 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. lowabip was raised, and finally became the formidable edifice we now behold. Nor could a more suitable plan be brought into operation, for expressing our filial attachment to that portion of mankind whose reci- procity of feelings demands our aid. Whatever plan might be adopted, we arrive but at one conclusion : we are bound by not only the law of nature, but the law of God, " not to see any brother have need, and shut up our bowels of compassion from him." Odd- Fellowship is constructed upon as divine principles as those which sway other institutions. Every votary at its shrine is expected to love and exalt its precepts to .ove them for the sake of their excellence to love them for the sake of those benefits which we all, in common, enjoy to love them in this life, for the sake of that heavenly communion in which we hope to dwell hereafter. Odd-Fellowship is loud in prohibit- ing all jealousies ; all rejoicings in the evils of another ; all encouragement to vice, irregularities, and vicious propensities : it encourages all good deeds, and con- demns all frail habits ; it advances man in the social scale of life, and retards, by avoidance, him whose absolute viciousness requires admonition ; it requires us to cherish love toward all mankind, though not immediately connected with them : not that it requires us to neglect the officers and brothers of a Lodge with whom we are directly allied no, this would be to destroy our membership in a particular coterie, and lose our social privileges and the peculiar advantages therewith attended, in a vague generality of commu- nion. The very fact of our entering one particular Lodge, intimates our preference for that Lodge, in dis- tinction from the rest, and requires our participation THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 107 and exertions in its services : still, while such doea not merge our membership in a vagrant indifference to its privileges, we are not to loae our feeling of catholicity in the restrictiveness of a general commu- nion. Here, Odd-Fellows maintain a visible bond of union in the world. An individual unites himself to a Lodge, that Lodge is united to other similar bodies, and thus has arisen universal association, whose praise- worthy efforts to do good is augmented by each indi- vidual putting ' his shoulder to the wheel." It must be remembered that a union with one particular soci- ety does not dissociate us from the general body ; we are members of a community, though immediately con- nected with a particular family ; we belong to a king- dom, as well as a city within it, and are not allowed to lose either our patriotism in our citizenship, or our citizenship in our patriotism. All Lodges are to be regarded with the same benevolent feelings which char- acterize its uniformity, notwithstanding our intimate connection with one of them in particular. In an army are many companies; yet one great fraternity " distinct as the billows, yet one as the ocean." So with Odd-Fellowship : we belong to a Lodge, yet are accountable to the Order for our actions ; and it appears but reasonable that one Lodge should recog- nise, as a sister, a Lodge similarly consisting of indi- viduals acting under the same authority, and seeking to promote the same cause. In this spirit, our Lodges are allowed to visit each other as brethren, and even to receive each other's members as brethren ; they co-operate for the good of the Order, and thus recog- nise each other ; they reciprocally seek and render advice ; they relieve each other's necessities, and 108 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. in various ways are esteem and confidence exhibited and expressed. The principles of Odd-Fellowship emphatically hold forth, that however useful, and de- lightful, and legitimate, it may be to hold communion with other Lodges, regular attention to our own is obligatory is indispensable. In a word, " universal love to all mankind," and a mutual sympathy with the wants of our fraternal breth- ren, are the two great pillars that support the laudable capital of Odd-Fellowship. Long may they stand ; long may they remain an impenetrable barrier to rebut the attacks of the prejudiced and unprincipled ; long may they flourish in the refined sculpture that now decks them ; long may they serve as a beacon-light, to guide the hesitating and the wavering unto where true felicity may be experienced ; and long may they prove a source of relief to the afflicted, the needy, nnd the oppressed ! OPENING AND CLOSING A LODGE.* PREVIOUS to the opening of a Lodge, the officers and members must be clothed in proper regalia, and each take his station or seat. The door must be * The method (not the form) of opening and closing an EN- CAMPMENT is similar to that of opening and closing a Lodge, The Chief-Patriarch requires the officers to specify their duties, and he must see that these duties are performed. The High- Priest, at the opening and the close, offers an appropriate prayer. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 109 closed ; and the Warden will see that all the brothers in the room are " correct." The respective officers will then severally state what their duties are ; after which the N. G. will remind the brothers of their duty as Odd-Fellows and members of the Lodge, and cause the Lodge to be declared opened for such business as may be lawfully brought before it, and for the diffusion of the principles of benevolence and charity. The chaplain may then offer the following prayer ; after which the business will proceed : " Almighty and most merciful God ! we adore thee as the Creator of all worlds, and the righteous Governor of all beings, upon whom we are dependent for life and all its blessings, and without whose favor no human enterprise can permanently pros- per. Lift upon us, we pray thee, O Lord, the light of thy countenance, and bless us while we are together this evening. May all things be done in the spirit of charity and brotherly kindness, and may our labors of love be blessed to the promotion of the best interests of our beloved Order. Hear us, O God, in behalf of the stranger, the sick, the afflicted, the widow, and the orphan, and bless them as thou seest that they may need. Keep us ever in thy fear and wisdom, and save us all with an everlasting salvation : and to thy great name be all the glory, 4 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.' Amen.*' When the business shall have been finished, the brothers will rise at the call of the N. G., and after the officers shall have stated their duties at the closing (the V. G. having first thanked the brothers for their com- pany, and requested it again), the Lodge will be de- clared closed until next Lodge-night : after which the chaplain may offer the following prayer : 14 We bless thee, O Lord, that we have been permitted td this another Lodge-meeting. Pardon what thou hast 10 110 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. seen amiss in us ; and now, as we are about to depart, let thy blessing be with us, and with all our brethren throughout the globe. May brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue adorn our lives, while members of this Lodge below, and at last may we be admitted to the joys of a better world : and thine be the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Ill DEGREES AND DEGREE LODGES.* DEGREE Lodges are formed for the purpose merely of conferring the five subordinate Degrees on members who may have been elected in their Lodge to receive them ; their legality is recognized by the Grand Lodge of the United States. The time, place, and manner of conferring the Degrees, are proper sub- jects for local legislation. They may be conferred by the Grand-Master, the D. G. Master of a District, or his deputy ; by the Noble-Grand of the Lodge to which the applicant may be attached, or by a Degree Lodge established for the purpose. But no Lodge can confer Degrees upon a member of another Lodge, without the consent of the Lodge to which the member belongs. The minimum price for Degrees is left to the control of the local Grand Lodges. Certificates for Degrees must be granted by the subordinate Lodges to its members, by ballot, on the presentation of which certificates to the proper officer the brothers are entitled to be instructed in the Degrees named therein. Not more than the first two Degrees can * The time between Initiation and the first Degree, and the period between the Degrees, and between rejection and re-appli- cation, is left to the legislation of State Grand Lodges. The article is correct as to some jurisdictions, but not in all. 112 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. be conferred at one time, unless the most urgent necessity be shown to exist, in which case the Grand- Master of the Grand Lodge, or his Deputy, may grant a dispensation permitting the five to be con- ferred on the same day. . A Degree Lodge is sanctioned by the Grand Lodge of a state, to which it is amenable. Its officers consist of a Degree Master (who occupies the principal chair), a Deputy Degree Master (who occupies the chair of the Vice-Grand), a First and Second Assistant Deputy De- gree Master (whose stations are to the right and left of the Degree Master), a Warden, a Conductor, a Secre- tary, and a Treasurer, whose positions are the same as in the subordinate Lodge. It is usually supported by a charge of from twelve to twenty-five cents for each Degree it confers, the Lodge to which the member belongs always receiving the sum fixed upon by the Grand Lodge as the price for Degrees; but it is not uncommon for the Lodge to pay the charge of the Degree Lodge. Upon the written petition of five or more Past Grands and five or more Scarlet-Degree members of the Order, praying for a warrant to open a Degree Lodge, the Grand Lodge may grant the same ; and such Degree Lodge will receive its charter and the necessary lectures and instructions in the same manner as is provided for subordinate Lodges. No Degree Lodge can admit or retain in member- ship any person who is not a regular contributing member of a subordinate Lodge, unless it be one whose card is in the possession of the Grand Lodge or its officers as an applicant for a charter for a Lodge. Persons to whom is confided the duty of conferring Degrees should be men of known and unquestionable ability. They should be able to read and speak well. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 113 and be capable of impressing the truths they are called upon to teach, in a solemn and dignified manner, upon the mind of the candidate. They should be rigidly accurate in their explanations, and be competent 10 express them so perfectly and correctly as to render the slightest mistake or misapprehension impossible. PAST-OFFICIAL DEGREES, ETC. PAST-OFFICIAL DEGREES are conferred on the Past (Assistant) Secretary, Past Vice-Grand, and Past Noble-Grand only (except in cases of newly-organized Lodges), and then for service in the Lodge for a majority of meetings in each term. The Grand- Master or his Deputy, a Degree Lodge, or the Lecture- Master of a Lodge conferring its own Degrees, are the proper persons to confer and explain these Degrees. The Grand-Lodge Degree is conferred by the Grand-Warden, usually in the Grand-Lodge room. Any brother who has passed the higher chair of his Lodge is entitled to it. It is uniform to all Grand Lodges. In order to obtain it, a brother must present a certificate, under seal of his Lodge, showing that he has served as Noble-Grand. The Grand-Encampment Degree may be conferred (by the Grand High-Priest) on all P. C. Patriarchs, and in some states also on Past High-Priests. They must produce certificates from their Encampments bhowing that they have passed the chairs. 10* H 114 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. SUBORDINATE ENCAMPMENTS. SUBORDINATE Encampments exist by virtue of war- rants, or charters, granted by a Grand Encampment, or by the Grand Lodge of the United States. Seven members of the Royal-Purple Degree, in good stand- ing, may obtain a charter for an Encampment.* To acquire or retain membership in an Encamp- ment, full membership in a Lodge is indispensably necessary. Neither can any person become a member of an Encampment who has not attained to the Scarlet Degree. A brother who wishes to propose another as a mem- ber of an Encampment, must do so in writing, and the applicant must pass the same ordeal of investigation as when entering the Order. Grand Encampments de- termine the number of balls to reject ; they also fix the minimum price for the Degree, and the lowest rate of Dues and Benefits. The Subordinates may provide by By-laws such amounts over those named as their circumstances may warrant. The amount varies from three to five dollars and upward. On the death * Petitions and Charters for Encampments are similar, in form and manner, to those pertaining to Lodges. See p. 55. The number of petitioners varies in different States, and frequently according to the location of existing Encampments. In Pennsyl- vania, fifteen Scarlet Degree members can petition for a Charter, if there is no Encampment within ten miles. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 115 of a Patriarch, also, a sum is appropriated toward as- sisting to pay his funeral expenses. The elective officers of an Encampment are a Chief- Patriarch, High-Priest, Senior Warden, and Junior AVarden, who are (as are also the officers of subordinate Lodges) elected by ballot semi-annually, and a Scribe, and Treasurer, who are usually elected annually. There are several appointed officers (besides a Senti- nel and Guardian), whose duties pertain particularly to the assistance required of them at the introduction of members; they are appointed semi-annually, by the Chief- Patriarch and High-Priest. The duty required of the Chief-Patriarch is similar to that which is performed by the Noble-Grand of a Lodge. The duty of the High-Priest is principally to read certain lectures pertaining to his office, and to give necessary instructions to initiates. He should be a man of ability, and of unquestionable morals. The Senior Warden is the assistant of the Chief- Patriarch, and, in case of that officer's absence, must preside over the Encampment. The Scribe's and Treasurer's offices are similar to those of the Secretary and Treasurer of a Lodge. The Junior Warden must assist the Senior Warden in the performance of his duties, officiate for him in his absence, and perform such other duties as may be legally required of him by the Chief-Patriarch. The patriarchal branch of the Order is, in the esti- mation of many, far more desirable than the initiatory branch. Every Odd-Fellow should make it his aim to reach the " topmost round of the ladder of Odd- Fellowship," the Royal-Purple Degree. No brother of good character, however ooor he mav be, or how- 116 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ever humble, need be prevented from attaining thus to the full stature of an Odd-Fellow. We can not conclude this subject without expressing our earnest hope that the heads and members of the Encampments will read our remarks on the duties of subordinate-Lodge officers and members, and that, so far as they may apply to them, they will endeavor to adopt the advice they contain, with the full assurance that the more careful and correct we become as Odd- Fellows, either in or out of our Lodges or Camps, the more prosperous we shall be ourselves, and the more useful we shall become to the world. The following is the order of business of an En- campment: 1. Opening the Encampment. 2. Calling the roll of officers. 3. Reading the minutes of last session. 4. Inquiry whether any Patriarch needs aid or sympathy 5. Consideration of previous proposals for membership. 6. Admission of members. 7. Conferring of Degrees. 8. Reception of new proposals. 9. Report of Visiting Committee. 10. Unfinished business. 11. New business. 12. Repori of Committee of Finance. 13. Report of Committee of Correspondence. 14. Report of Trustees. 35. Report of Committee of Revision. 16. Reports of Special Committees by seniority. 17. Reading of communications, &c. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 117 GRAND LODGES AND GRAND EN- CAMPMENTS. FIVE or more subordinate Lodges or Encamp- ments, located in any state, district, or territory, where a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment has not been established, having seven Past Grands or Past Chief- Patriarchs, in good standing, may petition the Grand Lodge of the United States for a Charter for a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment; which, if approved by a majority of the votes given, will be granted, and or- ganized by the Grand-Sire, or some qualified brother or Patriarch whom he may appoint for the purpose. Such five or more Lodges or Encampments must each first appoint one or more of its Past Grands or Past Chief-Patriarchs to represent it in a convention, to be composed of the several Lodges or Encampments in the state, district, or territory, who must consider the propriety of applying for a Grand Charter, as well as determine on a place or town for the location of the Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment. When these questions shall be decided (the vote having been taken by Lodges or Encampments, and not by the number of past officers present in the convention), the rep- resentatives must make application in the following form : 118 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. "To THE E. W. GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES, OF THE I. O. OF O. F. "The petition of blank Lodge [or Encampment] No. 1, blank Lodge No. 2, blank Lodge No. 3, of blank, blank Lodge No. 4, blank Lodge No. 5, respectfully represents, that at pres- ent they work under warrants granted by your right worthy body; that at present they have blank Past Grands [or Past Chief-Patriarchs] in good standing. They are of opinion that it would be of advantage to the Order to establish a Grand Lodge [or Grand Encampment] in the state of blank. They therefore pray your right worthy body to grant a Charter for a Grand Lodge [or Grand Encampment] in the state of blank, to be located at blank. " Witness our hands and seals, this blank day of blank, 1875. "A. B., REPRESENTATIVE OF No. 1. " C. D., REPRESENTATIVE OF No. 2. " E. F., REPRESENTATIVE OF No. 3. " G. H., REPRESENTATIVE OF No. 4. " J. K., REPRESENTATIVE OF No. 5." This petition must be accompanied by the charter- fee, which is thirty dollars, and price of books. During the recess of the Grand Lodge of the United States, the Grand-Sire, Deputy Grand-Sire, and Grand Recording Secretary, are authorized to grant dispensa- tions to open Grand Lodges or Grand Encampments, which must be submitted to the Grand Lodge for ap- proval and confirmation when it next meets. The Charter or Warrant for a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, issued by the Grand Lodge of the United States, and furnished to a state Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, is expressed as fol- lows : "INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. "To ALL WHOM IT MAT CONCERN: I, A.B., Most Wor- thy Grand-Sire of the Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, of tho United States of North America, am' THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 119 the jurisdiction of the Order thereunto belonging : FRIENDSHIP, LOVE, TRUTH. " Know ye, that by virtue of the powers in me vested, I do hereby authorize and empower our trusty and well-beloved [C. D. and others] to constitute a Grand Lodge [or Grand En- campment] in the city of blank, and state of blank, to be known and hailed by the title of blank. " I do further authorize and empower our said trusty and well- beloved [C. D. and others] to hear and determine, all and singu- lar matters and things relating to the Order within the jurisdiction of the said Grand Lodge [or Grand Encampment], according to the rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge of the United States : Provided always that the said [C. D. and others] pay due respect to the Grand Lodge of the United States, and the ordinances thereof: and provided also that this Dispensation shall be approved at the next session of the said Grand Lodge of the United States, otherwise to be of no force or effect. " Given under my hand, and seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States, at the city of Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, this blank day of blank, and of our Order the blank. [L. s.] " A. B., GRAND-SIRE. 4 E. F., Corresponding Secretary.' 1 '' GRAND LODGES. WE have previously stated that Grand Lodges are the heads of the Order in a state, district, or territory, where they may be established, and that they are insti- tuted by and are under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States. They have the control of all the subordinate Lodges under their own jurisdic- tions, and enact all laws required for the government of such Lodges. They meet either annually or semi- annualJy, for the transaction of business : and when not a representati ve body,they permit all the Past G rands of 120 THE ODD-FELLOWS FF.XT-BOOK. their subordinates the right of speech and vote.* In these exceptions the Grand Lodge is composed of one or two representatives from each Lodge, each having one vote for a certain number of members, and addi- tional votes for additional numbers. t The Grand Lodge is the supreme tribunal of the Order in its jurisdiction. No Lodge can be formed, or continue to exist, without its sanction, ft has the sole right and power to grant or suspend Charters ; to receive appeals and redress grievances ; to originate and regulate the means of its own support; and to do all other proper acts to promote the interests of the Order. The elective officers of the Grand Lodge are as fol- lows : Grand-Master, Deputy Grand -Master, Grand Warden, Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, Grand Representatives to the Grand Lodge of the United States. * Each Grand Lodge consists of all the Past Grands in good standing within its jurisdiction ; but by its constitution it may restrict its legislative power to such representative basis as it may deem best for the proper transaction of business ; but it can not abridge the privileges of Past Grands pertaining to their rank in the Degrees of the Order, viz. : their right to past-official Degrees, eligibility to office, precedence belonging to their grade, privilege of attending the meetings of their Grand Lodge, and right to vote for Grand Officers. DIGEST, p. 43. t The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania allows every Lodge of one hundred or less members one vote, and an additional vote for every fifty members over one hundred, but no Lodge is en- titled to more than one representative. One object of the re- form intended was a preveition of the confusion which might arise in legislation by th *apid increase of the Past Grands, the number entitled to admission in the Grand Lodge now in- creasing at the rate of about sixteen hundred ant ually. THE ODD-FELLOW&' TEXT-BOOK. 121 The appointed officers [appointed by the Grand- Master] are as follows: Grand Chaplain, Grand Mar- shal, Grand Conductor, Grand Guardian, Grand Herald, and District Deputy Grand-Masters who have charge of the Lodges in counties or other specified localities.* These officers are elected and appointed annually. The Grand-Master must preside and preserve order, and enforce a due observance of the laws of the Insti- tution ; give the casting vote in cases of " tie," except in those of the election of officers ; and sign all orders for the payment of moneys. He may grant dispensa- tions for conferring Degrees on a brother who may re- quire them in advance of the ordinary time, and con- fer official or other Degrees in person. He must de- cide all questions of law that may arise during the recess of the Grand Lodge ; and he must give such instruc- tions in the work of the Order as may be necessary. The Deputy Grand-Master must support the Grand- Master in presiding, and in his absence fill the chair for him. In the event of a vacancy in the office of Grand-Master, the Deputy Grand-Master becomes Mas- ter for the balance of the term. The Grand Warden must assist the Grand-Master in conducting the business of the Grand Lodge ; and, under the Grand-Master, have special charge of the door; and in the absence of the Grand-Master and Deputy Grand-Master, he must preside. The Grand Secretary must make a just and true rec- ord of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge at every ses- sion,and transmit to the District Deputy Grand-Masters and subordinate Lodges printed copies thereof. He must keep the accounts between the Grand Lodge and its *In some jurisdictions the D. D. Grand-Masters are elected by the Past Grands at the same time as the Grand Officers. 11 122 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. subordinates, receive all moneys coming to the Grand Lodge therefrom, and pay the same over to the Grand Treasurer. He must issue all necessary notices and circulars to subordinates, and to the District Grand Masters and Representatives. He must provide all stationery for the use of the Grand Lodge, and super- intend such printing as the Grand Lodge may direct. He receives such salary as may be fixed by the Grand Body. He must, previous to installation, give bonds to the three first-named Grand Officers, in such form and penalty as they may approve of, for the faithful discharge of his duties. The Grand Treasurer must receive and take charge of the moneys of the Grand Lodge ; pay all orders drawn on him by the Grand-Master, under the seal of the Grand Lodge ; make such investment of the funds as the Grand Lodge may direct; keep his accounts in such a manner as will exhibit the sources and amount of receipts, and by whom paid ; the purposes and amount of disbursements, and to whom paid ; have his accounts closed up on the first day of blank, annually, and submit them to the Finance Committee. He must, previous to installation, give bonds to the three first- named Grand Officers, for the faithful discharge of his duty. The Grand Representatives must attend the Grand Lodge of the United States, and faithfully perform the duties of legislators therein. The Grand Chaplain must attend the sessions of the Grand Lodge, for the purpose of opening and closing with prayer. The Grand Marshal must assist the Deputy Grand- Master in supporting the Grand-Master in the Grand THE ODD-FELLOWS'" TEXT-BOOK. 123 Lodge; assist at the installation of officers or organiza- tion of Lodges ; and have charge of all processions that may be ordered or participated in by the Grand Lodge. The Grand Conductor must examine the certificates of candidates for admission, and introduce such candi- dates to the Grand Lodge ; and assist the Grand Mar- shal in the discharge of his duties. The Grand Guardian must attend the door of the Grand Lodge, and permit no improper person to enter. At the installation of the officers of Lodges, he must have charge of the door of the Lodge. The Grand Herald has charge of the outer door, and performs such other duties as the laws of his Grand Lodge prescribe. The District Deputy Grand-Masters must perform, in their several districts, the duties prescribed in the laws of their jurisdiction. They are the representative of the Grand-Master in their respective districts, and exercise power and authority as such. They install the officers of the Lodges. They must report imme- diately to the Grand-Master any violation, on the part of their Lodges, of the laws of the Grand Lodge or of the Order. The revenue of a Grand Lodge is derivable from charter-fees and assessments on the subordinates. It is appropriated to the purpose of defraying the neces- sary expenses of the Grand Lodge. GRAND ENCAMPMENTS. THESE bodies have control over the Encampments of a state, district, or territory, where they may be established. They also are instituted by and are under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States. Although not subordinate to a Grand Lodge, 124 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT- BOOK. yet they can pass no laws excepting such as may relate to the government of the Encampments. In all cases where precedence is to be observed, they rank below state Grand Lodges, which are the supreme legislative heads within their respective jurisdictions. They usually consist of all Past Chief-Patriarchs and Past High-Priests, but in some instances of Past Chief-Patriarchs only, within their respective juris- dictions. The officers of a Grand Encampment are as follows : Grand Patriarch, Grand High-Priest, Grand Senior Warden, Grand Scribe, Grand Treasurer, Grand Jun- ior Warden, Grand Representatives to the Grand Lodge of the United States, Grand Marshal, Grand Sentinels, and Deputy Grand Patriarchs for each district. In some jurisdictions the Grand Marshal, Grand Sentinels, and Deputies are appointed by the Grand Patriarch. The other officers are elected. The Grand Patriarch must preside, and preserve order at the sessions of the Grand Encampment; de- cide all questions of law and order; receive and act on all complaints which may be made to him against his deputies or Encampments ; give such in- structions in the work of the Order as may be neces- sary ; and grant dispensations to subordinates in all such consistent matters as he may deem promotive of the interests of the Institution. He has supervisory authority over the jurisdiction of the Grand Encamp- ment. The Grand High-Priest must preside in the absence of the Grand Patriarch ; and in case that office be- comes vacant, he has the full powers of Grand Patri- arch. It is his duty to assist the Grand Patriarch in giving instructions in the work. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 125 The Grand Senior Warden must assist in presiding, and in preserving order. In the absence of the Grand Patriarch and Grand High- Priest, he must have charge of the Grand Encampment. He is the third officer of that body : in case of a vacancy in the offices of Grand Patriarch and Grand High-Priest, he has the full power of the Grand Patriarch. The duties of the Grand Scribe and Grand Treas- urer are similar to those of the Secretary and Treas- urer of a Grand Lodge. The Grand Junior Warden must open and close the Grand Encampment according to the regular form. He must introduce all new members. The Grand Representatives must perform the duties of legislators in the Grand Lodge of the United States. The Grand Marshal has charge of all processions of the Patriarchal branch of the Order in which the Grand Encampment may appear. The Grand Sentinels have charge of the doors, and must prevent the admission of any improper person. The duties of Deputy Grand-Patriarchs, in the gov- ernment of their Encampments, are similar to those of Deputy Grand-Masters in the government of their Lodges. The revenue of a Grand Encampment is derivable from charter-fe?s and assessments on the subordinates, and 13 appropr ated to defray necessary expenses. 11* 126 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE GRAND LODGE OF THE UNI- TED STATES. THE Grand Lodge of the United States is the source of all true and legitimate Odd- Fellowship in the Uni- ted States of America, and possesses such powers and jurisdiction over the whole brotherhood as are pro- vided in the constitution and ritual of the Order. Its authority extends, also, to such Lodges and En- campments as may be organized under its charter in foreign countries. It had in the year 1873 established a Grand Lodge in- Germany. All Grand and Subor- dinate Lodges, and Grand and Subordinate Encamp- ments, in these countries, are under its jurisdiction and subject to its control, and derive their authority from it. It may also establish Lodges in any other part of the world. The Grand Lodge of the United States is a body corporate. It was incorporated by the legislature of Maryland February 1st, 1876. It is the ultimate tribunal to which all matters of general importance to the State, District, and Terri- torial Grand Bodies are to be referred, and its decisions thereon are final and conclusive. It possesses the power to regulate and control the work of the Order, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 127 and the several Degrees belonging thereto, and to fix and determine the customs and usages in regard to all things which concern Odd-Fellowship. Its members are the representatives of Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments, and must be members in good standing of their subordinate Lodges and En- campments, members of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, and in possession of the R. P. Degree. They are elected for two years by their respective Grand Bodies. Each G. Lodge or G. Encampment of one thousand members or less, is entitled to one Representative ; if over one thousand, to two Repre- sentatives. Candidates for office must have the same standing in the Order as the Grand Representatives. The elective officers are, Most Worthy Grand-Sire, Right Worthy Deputy Grand-Sire, Right Worthy Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary, and Right Worthy Grand Treasurer, and are elected biennially by the Grand Representatives, by ballot, and by a majority of all the votes cast. They are installed at the last day of the session at which they are elected. The appointed officers are, Right Worthy Assistant Grand Secretary, Right Worthy Grand Chaplain, Right Worthy Grand Marshal, Right Worthy Grand Guar- dian, and Right Worthy Grand Messenger, who are nominated by the Grand-Sire and approved by the Grand Lodge, and are installed immediately after the installation of the elective officers. They may be chosen from any of the Grand Lodges or Encampments, and need not be elected Representa- tives. Past Grand-Sires are entitled to speak on all subjects, but the Representatives only are entitled 128 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. to vote, on all questions before the Grand Lodge, ir. the manner following : Each Grand Lodge or Encamp- ment having less than one thousand members, one vote ; and each Grand Lodge or Encampment having more than one thousand members, one additional vote. It is the duty of the Grand-Sire to preside at the sessions of the Grand Lodge, to preserve order, and to enforce the laws. He has the casting-vote in all cases of " tie." During the recess of the Grand Lodge, he has a general superintendence over the interests of the Order. He must hold no office in a subordinate Grand Lodge, or Grand Encampment, while acting as Grand-Sire. The Deputy Grand-Sire must aid the Grand-Sire, by his advice and assistance, and preside in his ab- sence. He must also open and close the meetings of the Grand Lodge. The Grand Secretary (Recording and Correspond- ing) must keep a record of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge; keep accounts between the Grand Lodge and the Grand and subordinate Lodges and Encampments under its jurisdiction ; write all letters and communi- cations ; carry on the correspondence of the Grand Lodge ; and perform such other duties as may be required of them. The duties of these two officers have been for several years performed by P. G. M. JAMES L. RIDOELY, Esq., of Maryland, whose ca- pacity and faithfulness have been such as to deserve the admiration and thanks of the brotherhood at large. As an evidence of the appreciation in which he is held oy the Fraternity, it is merely necessary to advert to the fact that he has been unanimously elected, year pfter year, by the Representatives of the Grand Lodge, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT BOOK 129 whose constituents have given unmistakable evidence of their impression that the loss of his services would be a real calamity to the Institution. P. G. Master Ridgely has done more for Odd-Fellowship, in these United States, than any other brother in the Order. He is a man of much intelligence, and of the strictest integrity. As long as Odd-Fellowship has a name and character (which will be for ever !) he will be remembered as its most eminent and competent advo- cate and exponent. The Grand Treasurer receives all moneys, and pays all orders drawn on him by the Grand-Sire. The Assistant Grand Secretary assists the Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary in the per- formance of his duties. The Grand Marshal, and the Grand Chaplain, must perform such duties as are usual to such offices. The Grand Guardian attends to the admission of the members, whom he is required to " prove " before he permits them to enter the Grand Lodge. The Grand Messenger's duty is to assist the Grand Secretary, and perform such other duty as the Grand Lodge may require. At each annual session of the Grand Lodge, the Grand-Sire must appoint in each State, District, or Territory (in which there are not a Grand Lodge or a Grand Encampment), an officer, to be styled " Dis- trict-Deputy Grand-Sire," whose duty it will be to act as the special Agent of the Grand Lodge, and perform such offices as it may direct. He has a general super- vision over all subordinate Lodges or Encampments in his district, which work under Charters granted by I 130 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOC x. the Grand Lodge of the United States. To qualify a brother for this office, he must be a regular contrib- uting member of a subordinate Lodge and Encamp- ment, and must have attained the rank of Past Grand, and be a Royal-Purple Degree member. The Grand Lodge of the United States meets annu- ally, on the third Monday in September, at such place as may be designated by itself. A majority of the Representatives of the several Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments is necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The revenue of the Grand Lodge arises from char- ter-fees, dues from Grand and subordinate Lodges and Encampments under its jurisdiction, and from the sale of books and cards for the use of the Lodges. The Grand Lodge of the United States was organ- ized February 7, 1821, by a committee of Past Grands from Lodges which had been instituted by Thomas Wildey, John Welsh, John Boyd, and others, by vir- tue of a Dispensation granted to them by the "Duke of York's Lodge, holden at Preston, Old England." It was then called " the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States." Subsequently, on the 22d of November, 1824, it was established as the Grand Lodge of the United States, and the title " Grand Lodge of Maryland" dropped. THOMAS WILDEY was the first Grand-Master; JOHN WELSH, Deputy Grand- Master ; WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Sec'y ; and THOMAS MITCHELL, Guardian. At the session in April, 1S26, the title of Grand-Sire of the Grand-Lodge of the United States was suggested, and in 1828 the Consti tution was revised and this title confirmed. From this time the Grand Lodge has increased in importance, and in the number of Odd-Fel!ows within its jurisdic- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 131 tion, until there are under its control (in 1877) 48 Grand Lodges, 6,678 Subordinate Lodges, with a mem- bership of 456,125. There are 39 Grand Encampments, with 1,806 Subordinates, and a membership of 87,785. The Lodges are represented in the Grand Lodge of the United States by 86 votes, and the Encampments by 59 votes, making a total of 145 votes. ORGANIZATION OF LODGES, ETC., AND INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS. LODGES are organized and officers installed by the Grand-Master of the Grand Lodge in person, or by his Deputy, who must be a Past Grand. He is as- sisted by the Grand Officers. If these are not present in person, their places may be filled by Past Grands. Previous to organization, the brothers applying for the Lodge must agree to conform to and support the laws of the Grand Lodge and of the Order. Previous to the installation of officers, they must be examined by the Grand Marshal, whose duty it is to ascertain whether they are competent to fill the offices to which they have been elected, and who, if the examination prove satisfactory, will present them severally to the Grand-Master, who will duly install, or cause them to be installed. As each appears for this purpose, the Lodge is required to express its satisfaction or other- wise of the choice it has made in him, for the informa- ation of the Grand-Master, whose province it is to as 132 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. certain whether the election has been regular and prop- erly understood. If objection be made to the installa- tion of any officer, the Grand-Master will ascertain if it be valid, and in case it should, he will immediately order a new election, which he will superintend in person. After the installation is concluded, the Grand- Master will instruct the various officers in their duties, and, after having delivered to the Lodge its Charter, books, and papers, he must receive (if the Lodge be one which has been previously in operation), a correct " return" of its membership, its pecuniary condition, names of officers past and present, number of Degrees conferred, names of brothers su;pended or expelled, with the causes therefor, and names of persons reject- ed, together with the amount of dues to the Grand Lodge ; \yhich he is required to forward to the office of the Grand Secretary. Such "retuins" should al- ways be prepared previous to the attendance of the Grand-Master for the purpose of installing, so that they may be placed in his hands the moment he calls for them. Blank forms for this purpose are furnished in ample season to all Lodges, by the Grand Secretary. The election and installation of officers of Lodges and Encampments occur semi-annually, usually in January and July. In the absence of the D. D. Grand-Master, or installing officer, any P. G. may install the officers of a Lodge. ENCAMPMENTS are organized and installed by the Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment, assisted by the Grand High-Priest, Senior and Junior War- dens, Secretary, Treasurer, and Sentinel. The style of their organization and installation (not theybrm) is similar to that of Lodges. THE ODD-FBI LOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 133 GRAND LODGES AND GRAND ENCAMPMENTS are organized by the Grand-Sire or his deputy. Past Grand-Officers of these bodies may install the officers elect. Previous to installation, such officers must agree to conform to and support the rules and laws of the Order as adopted by the Grand Lodge of the United States. Members of Grand Lodges consist of all Past Grands in good standing in the subordinates; they are admitted on the authority of certificates granted by the Lodges of which they are members ; which certifi- cates must specify that the brothers holding them have been instructed in the five Degrees, and served an elective term in the office of Noble-Grand. The members of Grand Encampments consist of all Past Chief-Patriarchs, and in some States also of all Past High-Priests, who are admitted on the au- thority of certificates, specifying that such officers have served an elective term as Chief-Patriarchs or High- Priests of Encampments. NOTE. For Public Installation of Officers of Subordinate Lodges, see page 244, 12 134 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. s AN ODD-FELLOW'S COUNSEL, IN NINE CHAPTERS. CHAPTER I. I. MAN, in this world of misfortune and care, needs BROTHERHOOD. In his hours of darkness and trouble, he requires a friendly hand to cheer and comfort him. How brief, indeed, is his life ! how rapidly his days fly! Soon he will reach that goal whence no traveller returns. In his brief journey, should he not be com- forted as well as admonished ? We are but shadows, floating for a moment over time, soon to be dissipated by the light of eternity How often are we called upon to shed the tear of sym- pathy over the grave of what was once great and noble, fair and lovely ! How often are the ravages of the destroyer beheld amid the busy tribes of flesh and blood perhaps in the very circle of relationship and friendship changing joy into sorrow, the fairest spots into the gloomiest wastes, and severing the most en- deared and tender associations ! Indeed, man is sur- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 135 rounded by innumerable mementoes of his mortality. To-day he looks upon the coffin of the smiling infant; to-morrow he sees the youth, in the bloom of life and hope, consigned to an untimely grave ; and again he follows one, who, after a long pilgrimage through life, has sunk, at length, to rest. Upon his own brow is stamped the seal of mortality ; and he is ever reminded, by the inroads of decay upon his own system, of that time when he shall become a tenant of the tomb. " Man cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down ;, he fleeth as a shadow, and continueth not ;" alike in the moments of solitude and sadness, when the days of other years, and the forms of the departed, long buried in the stillness of the tomb, come over the mind with the vividness of reality ; and in hours of triumph and hilarity, when mirth and festivity are in the ascendant, he is checked and dismayed by the chilling presage of death, and thinks of the time when it shall be said of him, that he sleeps the sleep that shall know no earthly waking! Yet death which is the effect of SIN if we seri- ously meditate upon the solemn admonition it affords, will teach us that our hearts should foster no EVIL evil, which is the bane of society, and the fountain of all wrong; the progenitor of crime, hatred, and vio- lence, whose fearful consequences must continue to afflict mankind, until the coming of that glorious day when " The lambs with wolves shall graze the verdant mead, And boys in flowery bands the tiger lead ; The steer and lion at one crib shall meet, And harmless serpents lick the pilgrim's feet ; The smiling infant in his hand shall take The crested basilisk and speckled snake 136 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Pleased, the green lustre of their scales survey, And with their forky tongues shall innocently play All crimes shall cease, and ancient frauds shall fail, Returning JUSTICE lift aloft her scale, PEACF o'er the world her olive wand extend, And white-robed INNOCENCE from heaven descend !" This will be the era of Universal Brotherhood when the tears and woes of this world will disappear before the light of Benevolence and Peace. ii In the course of years, many solemn changes pass before us. Man comes upon the scene of life ; he flourishes, prospers, declines, and dies ; but, if he be observant, he will see and profit by the lessons of life. One of these lessons will teach him that the good man will never be forsaken by his GOD, and that even his children will reap the advantages of his conduct. Thus, David said that he had been young, and was now old ; yet he had never seen the righteous for- saken, nor his seed begging bread. Friendship, Love, and Truth, practised by man toward his neighbor universally, would make a paradise of this world. Then, indeed, in the language of Pope " No more should nation against nation rise, No ardent warriors meet, with hateful eyes, Nor fields with gleaming steel be covered o'er, The brazen trumpet kindle rage no more ; But useless lances into scythes should bend, And the broad falchion in a ploughshare end : Then palaces should rise ; the joyful son Should finish what his short-lived sire begun ; The vines a shadow to their race should yield, And the same hand that sowed should reap the field." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 137 Friendship, Love, and Truth, if practised faithfully, are a safeguard against the ills of life. If we be actu- ated by these motives in all our transactions with our fellows, we shall be indeed happy. in. Good conduct before the world will secure to us the esteem of the wise and virtuous. The example wo show will have an important influence for good or ill. Faith and virtue are ever admired, even by the bad ; falsehood and vice are despicable, even to those who practise them. We must be honest : " an honest man's the noblest work of God." In our dealings with mankind, and especially with our brethren, we should take nothing more than our due ; in all things we should avoid the very semblance of deception. We should be honest to our neighbor by speaking well of him and, if we can not thus speak of him, by holding our peace concerning him. The calumniator can not be a man of good faith ; he is not to be trusted ; he should be shunned as a leprosy. He is more to be despised than the thief; for " He who steals our purse steals trash ; 'Twas ours 'tis his and has been slave to thousands; But he who filches from us our good name, Robs us of that which not enriches him, Yet makes us poor indeed." IV. Men are not always what they seem. We may be greatly deceived in them. The poor man, with the rough, hard hand, and humble garb may be good and 12* 138 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. generous, while another, with the manners and appear- ance of what the world calls a " gentleman," may be base and mean. We should, therefore, judge of men by their conduct, not by their appearance or profession. He who possesses a humane and a benevolent heart who is willing to do good to his neighbor who closes not his hand against his brother, is a true man, be his situation in life ever so humble. Love is the remedy for all social evils. It is the fundamental principle of all good. We should make it our aim, our study. He who loves his God and his fellow, and by his actions proves his sincerity, is a blessing to his race. Man, by his own evil passions, brings himself into a state of slavery more bitter than any human bondage. If he suffer himself to be led captive by them, he must at last be dragged to the lowest depths of wretched- ness misery despair. He should, therefore, if under their control, seek to liberate himself from their grasp, ere their hold upon him become so firm that it can not be shaken. Man gropes his way through life in darkness and doubt ; his reason and his moral nature are dark ; un- til he acquires, by virtuous perseverance, a knowledge of himself, his duty, and his destiny. Then the light breaks in upon him, and he sees clearly the path he is required to tread. The objects which so often excite men's passionate ambition are, when viewed in the light of mortality, so insignificant, that the reflecting mind will turn from them with disgust. It is far better to be an humble follower of the path of Virtue than to pursue the THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 139 ignus-fatuus of Wealth, or Power, or Pleasure. These are evanescent and perishable ; they elude our grasp : but Virtue, substantial and everlasting, will give us present enjoyment, as well as happiness eternal. v. Man is a constituent of one universal Brotherhood, having come from the hand of a common Parent. He should not, therefore, wrap himself up in self, and refuse his good offices to his brother ; for, without that brother, what would he be ? what could he do ? No human being can be "independent." " God never made an independent man ; 'T would jar the concord of his general plan." Under the comprehensive influence of Friendship, Love, and Truth, all the tribes and kindred of the earth may meet and concentrate their energies for the good of the race of man. By it, all nations, tongues, and creeds, may be brought to comprehend the motive for Fraternity. FRATERNITY ! This is our corner-stone. Upon its solid basis rests our superstructure. It teaches us to regard the great family of mankind as our brethren ; children of one heavenly Father, the great Author of our existence, " in whom we live, and move, and have our being ;" and that we should, in our conduct, reflect the image of that Father, after whose likeness Man was formed. FRIENDSHIP, LOVE, and TRUTH! fit warriors against vice in all its forms ! FRIENDSHIP prompts the contest; LOVE'S gentle influence will supply the 140 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. weapons ; TRUTH will consecrate the effort and lead to victory. Let us engage in this holy war ; nor cease our bat- tle until the world shall be conquered to our cause, and induced to enlist under our banner. CHAPTER II. I. No man, however poor or despised he may be, is entirely friendless. The natural affections never com- pletely die : sympathy will at least survive, and prompt exertion in behalf of the forsaken. Yet the kindly sen- sibilities often become blunted by time, and the heart, hardened by selfishness, forgets the tenderness with which it was wont to regard the sorrows of the dis- tressed. Association for purposes of benevolence serve to banish selfishness, and to keep alive and active the kindly sensibilities of the heart, by enforcing an ob- servance of social and humane duties. n. We must, if we would be MEN, be sober, temperate, and chaste. The drunkard is a curse to himself, his family, his friends, and the world. He renders him- self wretched in this life, and unfitted for the life here- after. The intemperate man is only one step behind THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 141 the drunkard ; if he do not pause, he must shortly overtake him. The unchaste man must bring upon himself certain disgrace ; he is a scandal to his kind, and shall be despised by the good and pure. in. Benevolence diffuses a lustre at once around the benefactor and the object of his bounty ; it is a crown of glory to the meek and merciful of heart ; and while it challenges the admiration of men, must secure the favor of him who said, " Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." If there is anything that tends to exalt man in the scale of sublime virtue, and assimilate him to the Divine character, it is this. Be- nevolence does not consist in fair words only it is not a mere name, but a deed it is a duty to be per- formed from principle, and not from the excitement of mere pity. It will carry us to the abode of the sufferer, and it will seek out sensible, living objects, with the purpose and intention of relieving them, because it is a duty so to do. IV. Brotherly Love shall dwell among those who meet for purposes of Benevolence. Kindly sentiments for each other and for the world shall be enkindled in their hearts, and burn brighter and brighter throughout all time. If Benevolence, Brotherly Love, and Charity, dwell in our breasts, and are exemplified in our lives. who can reckon the amount of happiness they shal- 142 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. bring? The fraternal relation is one around which cluster the best feelings of our nature ; and he who becomes duly impressed with a sense of the obligations of this relationship can neither be controlled by selfish- ness nor indifference. In the sacred chain that binds us, whatever link is touched by the hand of Violence or Corruption, tenth or ten thousandth, breaks that chain alike. Let there be no strife, therefore, between us, for we are brethren : yea, let us leave off contention before it be meddled with. We profess principles which shall destroy the stubble and the chaff of dissen- sion, and refine the powers and faculties which consti- tute the dignity and glory of man. Charity springs from the heart; it softens the affec- tions ; it brings to its dispenser pleasures the most sub- lime. The poor and the rich love him ; he is honored and respected at home and abroad. His home is the mansion of peace, and in all its relations he is blessed. He who is actuated by the heavenly influence of char- ity who is deeply imbued with that spirit which not only " worketh no ill to its neighbor," but which is constantly striving to do that neighbor all the good possible is always pleased with any opportunity that may present itself for relieving the destitute. The man who has true charity looks upon the world of suffering humanity as the objects of his regard and care ; and so far as he may have the power or ability to relieve suf- fering, he performs the duty with pleasure. Nor does Charity aim only at the alleviation of hu- man misery. It strives also to prevent unhappiness. It watches with anxious eye the threatened ill, and throws up its protecting hand to avert the danger. It hesitates not to step aside from its ordinary course, to THE ODD-FELLC Ws' TEXT-BOOK. 143 warn the object of its concern of any evil that may be by such friendly warning avoided. It throws its mantle over the faults and failings of humanity, and seeks to find excuses for those frailties, rather than to hold them up to the world's view, to the injury of mankind : for it considers that men are at best erring beings, and that as such they can not avoid the failings incident to poor, weak human nature. In a word, Charity, if its impulses were faithfully regarded, would change this world of gloom and misery to a paradise ; it would lead man to follow that golden rule of doing to others " as he would wish others to do to him ;" and thus might the whole human family become united in the bonds of Friendship. He who practises this charity, and teaches it to others, shall be crowned with honor, and come down to the grave in peace, with the full assurance of a blessed future CHAPTER III. I. MUTUAL relief can be afforded by a union of men for the purpose of aiding each other in the time of dis- tress, danger, or difficulty. A system of mutual relief cultivates the sympathies and relieves the woes of men. That shame of depen- dence and alms-receiving which tingles in the manly cheek, and pierces with sharp agony the heart, is not the least of the keen pangs of poverty. Often and long 144 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. will the natural pride of the sufferer lead him to pine and consume in secret, before he will let the world know the fact that the wan cheek and the hollow eye have revealed long before. Yea, at times shame will drive a man even to crime. He will not beg, be the consequences what they may ; and the fierceness of hunger preying upon our tempted, frail nature, will nerve to the commission of foul deeds the soul that a short time before would have shrunk with horror from the idea. A system of mutual relief will prevent this crushing misery, and save the victim of it from despair and crime. ir. In an association for mutual relief, men of all classes and conditions enter into a covenant, or contract, or bargain, to help and support, to protect and defend, to advise with and admonish each other. In this world of trouble and care, such an associa- tion is surely needed ; for the strongest, the wealthiest, or the most prosperous man, may, in a moment, be crushed by adversity. There are many pleasing associations in the idea of a covenant. GOD himself has made a covenant with man ; he has told us that the rainbow is the seal of that covenant ; and he thereby assures us, through the pa- triarch Noah, that this earth shall no more be deluged by the waters. He also entered into other covenants with his people evidences of his love and regard for them, amid their murmurings and disobedience, which prove the boundlessness of his goodness and mercy THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 145 Covenants have existed in all nations, among a)' people. We find them in every walk of life. Men bind themselves to each other in various business rela- tions : nations make treaties or covenants of peace; young men and maidens enter into covenants of mar riage. These, however, are mere compacts of business : the covenant of brotherhood is one more holy and sub- lime ; it is designed to remove the obstacles that inter- pose between the hearts of men. m. David and Jonathan pledged themselves in a cove- nant of friendship and love, the history of which is most interesting and affecting. David, an humble shepherd, without title or honors, and Jonathan, the son and heir of a powerful Hebrew king, were bound to each other in the equality of friendship by a tie which no power could sever. When the envious king, who was jealous of David, because of his noble and daring exploits, sought to kill him, Jonathan warned his friend of his danger, and determined to arrest it. ' Now, therefore, I pray thee," said he to David, " take heed to thyself until the morning, and abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: and I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my father of thee ; and what I see, that I will tell thee." And Jonathan, in accordance with his covenant, did speak well of. David to his father ; he reasoned with him, and persuaded him, until he obtained a promise from him that David should no 13 K 146 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. be slain. And he brought David to his father, and he was in his presence as in times past. IV. But the evil spirit of envy and jealousy came again over Saul the king, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand, and he sought to smite David to the wall with his weapon. That night David fled to his house, where Saul pursued him ; but he escaped by a stratagem of his wife, and went to Ramah, where he met the prophet Samuel, who accompanied him to Naioth, in Ramah. Saul sent messengers after him there, and at length went himself, but the Spirit of God constrained both his messengers and himself, and protected David. v. David fled from Naioth, and came and said before Jonathan, " What have I done? what is my iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?" And Jonathan said unto him, "God for- bid ; thou shall not die : behold, my father will do nothing, either great or small, but that he will show it me : and why should my father hide this thing from me ? it is not so." And David sware, moreover, and said, " Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes ; and he saith, ' Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved :' but truly as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step be- tween me and death." Then said Jonathan unto David, " Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 147 it for thee." And David said unto Jonathan, "Be- hold, to-morrow is the new-moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at meat : but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third day at even. If thy father at all miss me, then say, 'David earnestly asked leave of me, that he might run to Bethlehem, his city : for there is a yearly sacrifice there for all the family.' If he say thus, ' It is well,' thy servant shall have peace : but if he be very wroth, then be sure that evil is determined by him. Therefore thou shall deal kindly with thy servant ; for thou hast brought thy ser- vant into a covenant of the Lord with thee : notwith- standing, if there be in me iniquity, slay me thyself; for why shouldst thou bring me to thy father?" And Jonathan said, " Far be it from thee ; for if I knew certainly that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not I tell it thee ?" Then said David to Jonathan, "Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly ?" And Jonathan said unto David, " Come, and let us go out into the field." And they went out both of them into the field. And Jonathan said unto David, " O Lord God of Israel, when I have sounded my father to-morrow any time, or the third day, and be- hold, if there be good toward David, and I then send not unto thee, and show it. thee, the Lord do so and much more to Jonathan : but if it please my father to do thee evil, then I will show it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace : and the Lord be with thee, as he hath been with my father. And thou shalt not only while yet I live show me the kindness of the Lord, that I die not, but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever : no, not when 148 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-booK. the Lord hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth." So Jonathan made a cov- enant with the house of David, saying, " Let the Lord even require it at the hand of David's enemies." And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him : for he loved him as he loved his own soul. Then Jonathan said to David, " To-morrow is the new-moon : and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. And when thou hast stayed three days, then thou shalt go down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel. And I will shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. And behold, I will send a lad, saying, ' Go, find out the arrows.' If I expressly say unto the lad, ' Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee,' take them ; then come thou : for there is peace to thee, and no hurt, as the Lord liveth. But if I say thus unto the young man, ' Behold, the arrows are beyond thee,' go thy way : for the Lord hath sent thee away. And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the Lord be between thee and me for ever." VI. So 'David hid himself in the field : and when the new-moon was come, the king sat him down to eat meat. And the king sat upon his seat, as at other times, even upon a seat by the wall ; and Jonathan nrose, and Abner sat by Saul's side, and David's place was empty. Nevertheless, Saul spake not anything that day : for he thought, " Something hath befallen THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 149 him, he is not clean ; surely lie is not clean." And it came to pass on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, that David's place was empty : and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, " Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday nor to- jay ?" And Jonathan answered Saul, " David ear- nestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem : and he said, ' Let me go, I pray thee ; for our family hath a sacrifice in the city ; and my brother hath commanded me to be there : and now if I have found favor in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray thee, and see my breth- ren.' Therefore he cometh not unto the king's table." Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, " Thou son of the perverse, rebel- lious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the con- fusion of thy mother's nakedness? For as long as the son of Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shall not be established, nor thy kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely die." And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, " Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done?" And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him : whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David. So Jonathan arose from the table in fierce anger, and did eat no meat the second day of the month : for he was grieved for David, because his father had done him shame. VII. And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the field at the time appointed with 150 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. David, and a little lad with him. And he said unto his lad, " Run, find out now the arrows which I shoot." And as the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. And when the lad was come to the place of the arrow which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the lad, and said, "Is not the arrow beyond thee?" And Jonathan cried after the lad, " Make speed, haste, stay not." And Jonathan's lad gathered up the arrows, and came to his master. But the lad knew not any- thing, only Jonathan and David knew the matter. And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, " Go, carry them to the city." And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times : and they kissed one another, and wept with one another, until David exceeded. And Jonathan said to David, " Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn, both of us, in the name of the Lord, saying, ' The Lord be between me and thee, and be- tween my seed and thy seed, for ever.' " And David arose and departed : and Jonathan went into the city. VIII. But Saul, bent on destroying David for nothing could appease his malice or disarm his envious jealousy pursued him still. David abode in the wilderness, in strongholds, and remained in a mountain in the wil- derness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand. And Jona- than went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God ; and said unto him, " Fear not, for ihe hand of my father sha 1 ! not find thee ; thou shall THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 151 be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee, and that also Saul my father knoweth." And they renewed their covenant before the Lord : and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house. IX. At length (after David had generously spared his pursuer, whom he surprised while he was asleep within a trench, unarmed and helpless, and Saul, touched with this noble conduct, had acknowledged his sin and repented of his folly), when Jonathan fell in battle, and death had broken the tie which bound these friends so indissolubly together, how deeply was the heart of David moved ! " O Jonathan !" he exclaimed, " thou wast slain in thine high places ! I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan : very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women /" Ay, "passing the love of women." For it was the love of friendship, pure, disinterested, holy ; not a passion, but a deep and abiding principle, replete with sincerity and truth. In David's breast, it did not die with Jonathan's death. It followed Jonathan's seed. x. David asked : " Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may do him kindness for Jona- than's sake ?" The reply was, that Jonathan had left a son, who " was lame on his feet," and David sent for him and brought him to his palace (for he was then king of Israel). When the poor cripple, whom per- 152 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. haps the world had neglected, came trembling unto his father's friend, and fell on his face before him, and did him reverence, " Fear not," said the king, " for I will surely show thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul ; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually." And he accordingly directed that Jonathan's son should be put in possession of all that pertained to Saul and to all his house. " Thou, therefore," said he to Ziba, one of Saul's and Jonathan's former servants, " and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in the fruits, that thy master's son may have food to eat : but Mephibosheth, thy master's son, shall eat bread alway at my table." Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants. Then said Ziba unto the king : " According to all that my lord the king hath commanded his servant, so shall thy servant do." "As for Mephibosheth," said the king, "he shall eat at my table, as one of the king's sons." And Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Micha. And all that dwelt in the house of Ziba were servants unto Mephibosheth. So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jeru- salem ; for he did eat continually at the king's table. XI. In this narrative of the love of Jonathan and David, we have a most happy and impressive illustration of mutual relief as the result of a covenant. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 153 CHAPTER IV. i. THE man who will sacrifice his ease, his substance, or his life, to serve or save a friend, is truly actuated by the spirit of Friendship. There have been those who have offered their lives for their friends. There was one, also, who, to aid and deliver his persecuted race, abandoned all the pleasures and endearments of the world, and willingly endured privation, calamity, and trouble, through motives of love and friendship such as few men have felt or practised. ii. And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shall have no other gods before me. Thou shall not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or thai is in ihe earth benealh, or that is in the water, under the earth. Thou shall nol bow down ihyself lo them, nor serve them ; for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generalion of them lhal hate me ; and showing mercy unto thousands of them thai love me and keep my commandmenls. Thou shall nol lake the name of the LORD thy God 154 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. in vain : for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Remember the sabbath-day to keep it holy. Six days shall thou labor, and do all thy work : but the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God : in it thou shall not do any work, thou, nor ihy son, noi thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates : for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all thai in ihem is, and resled the seventh day : wherefore ihe LORD blessed the sabbath-day, and hallowed it. Honor thy father and thy mother ; that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD ihy God giveth ihee. Thou shall nol kill. Thou shall nol commil adultery. Thou shall not steal. Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neigh- bor. Thou shall nol covel thy neighbor's house, thou shall nol covet ihy neighbor's wife, nor his man-ser- vant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anylhing lhat is thy neighbor's. in. Our infinite Creator, who is the Soul of all true Friendship, and the Source of all good ; who is abun- dantly worthy of our love ; and who may rightfully command our obedience is the only proper object of our worship. HE hath said, through the mouth of his servant : " If thy brother be waxen poor, and falter THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 155 in decay with thee, then thou shall relieve him yea, though he be a stranger or a sojourner, that he may live with thee." HE requires us to sympathize with our brethren in distress, and to relieve them in their time of need. IV. Bright pages of history, like stars beaming out in the midst of the dark and stormy heavens, have reflected the lustre of Friendship, and exhibited its beauty. Who has not felt a thrill of unutterable sublimity when contemplating the heroic friendship of Damon and Pythias the melting affection of Jonathan and Da- vid the noble, self-sacrificing love of the great law- giver of the Jews, who chose rather to share the wretchedness of his despised countrymen, than to enjoy the utmost favor of their powerful oppressors? How beautiful, amid the havoc of war and the bar- barous customs of the ancient world, shines forth the inimitable conduct of Tygranes, a prince of Armenia, who, when asked by his conqueror, Cyrus, " What ransom do you offer for your life ?" replied : " My possessions." "What for your wife ?" " My life !" was the prompt reply. Penetrated by the magnanimity of his conduct, Cyrus released him. On retiring from the presence of Cyrus, Tygranes inquired of his wife her opinion of the king. "I did not see him," was the reply. "Not see him !" cried the astonished prince. " No," she replied, " I was so taken up with gazing on him who offered his life for my ransom, that I saw no one else." Friendship is of every clime ; it blooms in every soi' rt- 156 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. of earth ; it sheds its sweets amid the snows of Cau- casus, and cheers the Greenlander and Esquimaux, as they wander forth among their bleak hills and gaze upon the cliffs of their ice-bound shore ; it flourishes amid the sand-hills of the desert, and strengthens un- der a torrid sun ; its beauties are alike developed where winter first puts on her robes of snow, and where the green livery of summer is longest worn : gilding, by its influence, the darkest hours of human adversity ; elevating human nature in the scale of being ; giving to the social affections their noblest impulses ; and alleviating, though it may not be able entirely to remove, the disquietudes and calamities of life. As old Memnon, touched by the genial light of the morning, sent forth spontaneous music, so does the human heart, under the influence of Friendship, until the soul feels the concord, and yields her functions to the enchantment. Its appeal is the voice of universal union to the islands of every sea and the inhabitants of every land ; and as it sheds its rays, rendered brighter by the teachings of that revealed truth which is working its healing miracles in the earth, it will exhibit new fields of moral beauty, like islands of glory in the sea of darkness, sending up a fragrance grateful to rejoicing heaven ; and, like the circlets on a summer's lake when agitated by a falling shower, it shall extend its borders and enlarge its dimensions, till it is lost in one vast circumference of light and life, that shall gird the earth around, and grasp in its ample embrace the universal family of man. This principle, in its personal and most extended bearings, we should practise. Men of all languages, of all religions, of the remotest nations, and of every habit and opinion, are, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 157 by its influence, united together in one indissoluble bond of brotherly affection. The wild Arab of the desert, the haughty Chinese, the rigid Mussulman, the pious Christian, the polished courtier, and even the untutored savage, who roams his primeval forests free as his own mountain eagle, will, through it, greet each other as brothers, and do justice to that title by every endearing expression of love and good-will. In a word, it makes affectionate companions at home, and abroad introduces the stranger to a household of brothers. CHAPTER V. i. LET us not forget the truths we have been thus far taught. Let the memory of them be precious in our sight. Do unto others as thou wouldst they should do unto thee ; love thy neighbor as thyself; regard all men as brethren : the children of the Creator are, in his eyes, equal from the monarch on his throne, to the beggar in his rags and Universal Love is what he requires. The selfishness of mankind needs correcting. How many noble spirits have been quenched by the opera- tion of the world's selfishness ; how many bold aspira- tions checked ; and how much misanthropy and ruin produced ! To cultivate a generous spirit of kindness to wake up the sympathies and purge the heart from its selfish- 14 158 TfT^ Oim-FELT.O'.VS' TF XT-BOOK. ness is the noblest mission in which man can engage, and he who would place an obstruction in the way of such a pursuit, can never have well learned the lessons of Friendship and Love. He who is bound up in the iron chain of Bigotry who is fettered by the influ- ence of human creeds whose head is filled with self- conceit has a heart tame, cold, and indifferent, and will neither bind up the wounds of the stranger, nor give shelter to the outcast, unless they yield them- selves to his dictation. Wherever man is found, in whatever situation of life, he bears his Maker's image ; he is immortal ; and, however poor, or even degraded, he may be,' in his soul are the signs of human equality. If thou canst do aught to promote his happiness, then, or canst relieve his wants, DO IT : it is thy duty. If there be a scheme of good, designed to meliorate his condition, engage in it with all thy heart, remembering that he for whom thou art laboring is thine own Father's son. Pause not to inquire his creed or his faith, his title or his condition ; but consider, that, with all his errors or imperfections, he is thy brother. Tf men would all act thus, how soon would the lost communion with heaven be restored, and the reign of Love, Peace, and Joy, be perfected on earth ! n. Divine Wisdom teaches us to love Mercy and Truth to write them on the tablets of our hearts so that we may find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man. It teaches that the fear of the Ijord is to hate evil ; that pride, and arrogance, und the THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 159 evil way, and the froward mouth, are to be avoided. They that keep the ways of Divine Wisdom shall be blessed. They that will hear her instruction, and are wise who watch daily at her gates, awaiting her ap- proach shall find her, and live, and obtain favor of the Lord : but they that sin against -her, by refusing to seek her, wrong their own souls ; and, in hating her, shall perish. in. Love your enemies ; bless them that curse you ; do good to them that hate you ; and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you : that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven ; for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth the rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love them which love you, what reward have ye? Do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? Do not even the publicans so? IV. Permit not prejudice to control thee in thy dealings with thy fellow. Blemish not thy good deeds by using uncomfortable words when thou helpest thy brother. Shall not the dew assuage the heat? So is a word better than a gift. Lo ! is not a word better than a gift? but both are with a gracious man. A fool will upbraid churl- ishly, and a gift of the envious consumeth the eyes Learn before thou speak : before judgment, examine thy self, and in the day of visitation, thou shah find mercy. 160 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. When thou hast enough, remember the hungry ; and think upon poverty and need. Rehearse not unto another that which is told unto thee, and thou shall fare never the worse. Whether it be to friend or foe, talk not of other men's lives ; and if thou canst without offence, reveal them not. If thou hast heard a word, let it die with thee; and be bold it will not burst thee. Admonish a friend ; it may be he hath not done it ; and if he have done it, that he do it no more. Ad- monish thy friend ; it may be he hath not said it ; and if he have, that he speak it not again. Admonish a friend ; for many times it is a slander ; and believe not every tale. There is one that slippeth in his speech, but not from his heart ; and who is he that hath not offended with his tongue ? Admonish thy neighbor before thou threaten him ; and not being angry, give place to the law of the Most High. v. A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jeri- cho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him ; and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan [of a race which the priest and Levite despised], as he journeyed, came where he was ; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 161 set him on his own heast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow, when he departed, he took out twopence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, " Take care of himjj and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee." Which now of these three was neighbor unto hirn that fell among thieves ? VI. Justice, temperance, and charity, are the duties of all men. We should be just in our dealings with our brethren and with the world. We should be industri- ous and honest. We should be kind in our demeanor to all with whom we have intercourse ; we should com- passionate sorrow ; we should bind up the broken heart, comfort the disconsolate, and dry the tears of the be- reaved. We should be temperate. Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging ; and whoever is deceived thereby is not wise. The drunkard shall suffer many grievous evils, and come to poverty and rags. We should be charitable, by doing with promptness and alacrity all the good in our power to our fellow- rnen. We should teach charity to others, by both pre- cept and example. Charity suffereth long, and is kind ; charity envieth not ; charity vaunteth not itself is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seek eth not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil ; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth ; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth. 14* L 162 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. CHAPTER VI. i. THE rnild and heavenly radiance of TRUTH will light man's steps, through the benighted paths of error, to the lustre of unclouded day. Truth is that grand virtue which deals plainly and honestly in all actions, without disguise, without false- hood, and without hypocrisy ; it comprehends all that is wise and good ; it is the vital spirit of every commu- nity which is well founded among men. Where the name of God is sanctified, where his ordinances are duly attended, where good laws are enacted against immorality, and those laws diligently executed in short, where that celebrated rule is the standard of dealing, that every man do to others as he would they should do to him these people may be truly said to execute judgment and seek after the truth. What eulogiums does not the world give, and give deserv- edly, to the lovers of truth ? The man that does good, and speaks truth, resembles the Deity, whose essential properties are goodness and truth ; when a man has acquired a reputation for veracity, his word is taken implicitly it has all the authority of an oath and all receive what he says with a sort of religious re- spect. No man is greater in truth than he is in God's esteem. Truth presents us with a rule to ascertain what Vir- tue is, and guides us into its personal possession. Virtue is the voluntary homage we pay to Truth, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 163 which thus becomes the basis of Virtue. Truth is essentially the only foundation of confidence, and con- fidence is the only bond of association among the wise, the good, and the intelligent. To it we are indebted for the whole sum of happiness enjoyed in time. Truth mingles its unclouded perceptions of duty with the generous grasp of Friendship and the sympa- thizing voice of Love. It is the great law of then being and mainspring of their action. Its robe is the spotless vestment of sincerity, snow-white and lustrous , it is an attribute of Deity, and has been made attaina- ble to man, that his race might be blessed and im- proved. Without it, society is like a world without a sun. There are the towering mountains, the broom-clad vale, the gushing fountain, the broad expanse of ocean lifting its foam-crested billows to the embraces of the skies, and laving with its waters the golden sands of a hundred isles : but over all rests the deformity of dark- ness. The mountain has no greenness ; the lovely flower and the enamelled vale wear the hue of death ; the waters sparkle not, and the golden sands on their island-gems send forth no lines of reflected light ! Truth rises like the day-god upon the scene, and every object is flooded with beauty and loveliness ; and a blessed influence is breathed through every portion of society. These three duties Friendship, Love, and Truth indissolubly joined in the teachings of our lessons, furnish the broad foundation upon which is erected those extensive plans of relief which distinguish associations formed for the purpose of uniting men in the bonds of brotherhood. How vivid the contrast exhibited between the abodes of Error and those delightful habitations where Truth 164 THE ODD-BELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. reigns in its unclouded beauty, and every tongue and every heart sweetly think and speak under the influ- ence of its teachings ! United in bonds of kindred feelings, Truth is, by every member of this vast and happy Brotherhood, loved, studied, embraced, and spoken, for ever ; and Confidence springs up in the soul, and claims its pure mansion as an eternal resi- dence. Friendship, twin-sister of Confidence, joins hand in hand with deathless grasp ; while Love, with links of holy Brotherhood, binds heart to heart in puri- fied communion. From heaven God looks down with complacency, and sheds over all in rich profusion the enduring blessings of his favor. II. A Fraternity whose broad foundation is Universal Brotherhood ; which opens its doors of relief and sym- pathy to all ; which teaches the sacred and sublime sentiments of Friendship and Love, and clothes its adherents with the dignity of Truth will be owned of Heaven, and shall confer incalculable benefits on mankind. Let us. then, BE TRUE to our professions. Let our walk and conversation in life be such that the world shall be compelled to acknowledge the sublime theory we teach. Thus shall we live in the enjoyment of the blessed consciousness of having performed our duty to our Maker and our kind ; and when the hour comes for us to leave this earth and join the vast Brotherhood beyond it, we shall be able to look back upon a life well spent, and prepared to meet Him who has laughi THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 165 us that love for our brethren here is a duty incumbent on ike children of one heavenly Father. CHAPTER VII. PREJUDICE imposes upon the minds of men restraints which lead to unnecessary ill feeling, and prevent that union of hearts which is essential to true happiness. Hospitality to the stranger is a duty enjoined by God, who teaches us that, as he is the Father of al. men, we are not to pause to inquire our brother's faith, or creed, or nation, before we render him the sympathy or aid he may need. God's commandments, as delivered by him to Mo- ses, embrace every duty required of us by our Maker. He who obeys these, may claim to be a true MAN. n. Virtue is the rule by which our lives should be gov erned. " The good alone are great." Virtue can never die. It will live and flourish throughout the eternal ages of God. When green wreaths shall have faded, and glorious monuments of human skill have perished when the weapons of victorious battle shall have been broken, and the sound of the poet's lyre have died away for ever VIRTUE will stand, high above all earthly power and fame, the essence of all 166 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. that is good, and great, and glorious. " Virtue alone is happiness below." It gives joy which none jut lu who practises it can understand. Its influence is felt and acknowledged even by the bad. It will be the crown of age, the honor of manhood, the guardian of youth ; it will be our guide in prosperity, and scJace in affliction. It will give us here on earth the truest happiness, and prepare us for the future state of being to which we are hastening. in. The patriarchs of old, who dwelt in tents and passed their lives in the inculcation of the social virtues, were a happy because they were a good people. The world would be better and happier were it to practise now the simplicity and purity of these simple-minded and truly-honest men. They were united as one family : no jealousy, discord, or envy, interfered among them to make them discostented or miserable. Pride that bane of humanity had no existence among them. Hospitable, generous, loving, and faithful, their exam- ple is one which we may and ought earnestly to follow. He who succors the distressed ; who gives food and rest to the hungry and weary ; who comforts the bro- ken-hearted, and raises the fallen, shall enjoy a pleas- ure far more desirable than wealth, or power, or fame. If our brother offend us, let us remember that he is weak and erring, like ourselves, and that it is far better to treat him kindly, and to tell him of his fault in the spirit of friendship, than to rise up against him in the spirit of hatred, and attempt to crush instead of lo THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 167 reform him. If he repent, let us forgive him. " To err, is human ; to forgive, Divine." He who will not act thus is no true Odd-Fellow. He may dwell among us ; he may be elevated to the highest rank ; he may be regarded as rich, or wise, or talented : but none of these can make him an Odd- Fellow in the true meaning of the title. If he be, as a man, implacable and malicious, he can not be a friend or a brother. CHAPTER VIII. " ALL things whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so unto them." Shall a man, a unit in the universal kingdom of God, stand aloof from his fellow-unit because he may not be of the same faith or nation as himself? Nay ! The question must not be, "Is he a Christian, or is he a Jew, or a Mohammedan ? is he a European, or an American, an Asiatic or African?" but, "Is he a MAN AND A BROTHER?" Human prejudice and intolerance are and have ever been the causes of more misery in the world than all other evils combined. Be it our duty to destroy their power, by asserting and maintaining the high birthright of humanity by regarding and treating our brother as our equal, the child of our own benevolent Father, created in like form and bearing th Q same image as ourselves. 168 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. n. Let us "be just, and fear not." Let us be honest. Let us never hesitate to avow oui principles. Let not fear of man induce us to falsehood. Conscience should be permitted always to govern us ; and as it directs, so should we ever act. The evils that afflict our brother should be regarded as in a measure our own. If we injure him. we shall also injure ourselves. Whatever directly affects a member of the body, must remotely affect the entire structure. Man's misfortunes are our misfortunes, and his sufferings are ours. in. Mankind are divided into numerous sects and par- ties, each of which holds opinions peculiar to itself; and, however absurd, or even ridiculous, each may seem to the other, its adherents are mostly sincere and firm in their belief. The Christian's faith in Christ is not more earnest and positive than the Jew's in his expected Messiah, the Mohammedan's in his prophet, or that of the Chinese in the object he worships as a representation of the Deity. All these, though holding opinions the very antipodes of each other, are satisfied that they'are correct, and can produce arguments in support of their theory, which, in the estimation of those who practise it, are clear and conclusive. Christendom is itself divided into scores of sects and parties, many of which, though they profess to on the most important principles of Christianity. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 169 ie so heartily opposed to each other, that they are in constant controversy ; and to the disgrace of that pure and peaceable spirit of love by which they claim to be governed, they too often conduct their disputes with a bitterness and rancor that would much better become the men of " the world" than the servants of One whose gentleness and forbearance were among the most prom- inent characteristics of his eventful career on earth : for he not only exhibited in his own person the utmost forbearance toward those who were opposed to him, but gave the most positive directions to his followers to love even their enemies, and to extend to all men the rights which they claimed for themselves. As no two countenances among the thousand mil- lions of the race of man now on earth are alike, so perhaps no two in this vast multitude of minds think alike. Difference of opinion, on religious subjects es- pecially, has always existed, and will be likely to con- tinue to divide the hearts of men until the reign of the sublime principle of Universal Brotherhood shall have been established on earth. Should we despise our brother for this " difference" ? Nay ! for he has the same right as ourselves to the enjoyment of his pecu- liar opinion, and may maintain it in opposition to the opinions of the whole world. IV. " GOD is no respecter of persons." St. Peter said to Cornelius and others who had assembled to hear him : " Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one Ifl 170 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. of another nation ; but God hath showed me that 1 should not call any man common or unclean." God had exhibited to Peter, in a vision, that what HE con- sidered as worthy of regard, man should not shun or despise. He had taught him, in a manner which, as a Jew, he could not misapprehend, the sacred principle of TOLERATION. When the golden rule shall have exerted its power, and obtained its dominion over the world, men of all creeds and nations shall sit together in love, and the light of knowledge and of pleasure shall shine around and about them. Then the descendants of Abraham, and the followers of the Crescent, and the worshippers of Christ, shall commingle in one happy family, know- ing no diversity of faith or creed. Then a calm repose shall have come upon the elements of strife : " no sigh nor murmur the wide world shall hear," and the tears of sorrow shall be changed to those of joy. Then shall man hail his brother with fraternal greetings : then shall Falsehood be driven from the earth, and the race of Adam form a universal band of Brotherhood: then shall one law and that the law of LOVE bind the nations by a golden chain which no power of darkness can ever break asunder. VI. Let us exert our utmost endeavors to hasten mis nost desirable period. Let us conquer the world to THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 171 ita, m\ri peace, by compelling it to aid us to establish the glorious reign of the GOLDEN POWER. The globe is the field of our labor. We should not pause in our efforts until the whole world shall be made happy. We should carry our Benevolence and Friendship into every corner of the wide earth, and into the remotest islands of the sea. CHAPTER IX. I. WE live in a world of change, of sorrow, and of pain : the emblems of decay and death are thick around us ; the stout arm of roseate health falls powerless be fore the ravages of disease. The strong and the mighty, who to-day " laugh at the shaking of a spear," and defy the tempest and the storm, may to-morrow be as help- less as the puny infant on its mother's breast. He who stands forth, nerved to toil, with the bloom on his cheek, vigorous as the oak of Bashan, may soon " fade as a leaf." We are subject to sickness, to misfortune, and to death. But we must struggle on, though beset with danger, toil, and strife, through the wilderness of this world, to our DESTINY. Let us therefore be stout of heart, and determine, through faith and energy, to overcome the obstacles that lie in our path. Let not fear or dis- couragement cause us to turn back, after we shall have once entered upon our journey. Let us take Honestv 172 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. for our guide : however rough or uncouth he may seem, or whatever abuse may be heaped upon him by those who love him not, if we cling to him and follow him, he will assuredly bring us at last to a peacefu. and pleasant abode. IT. Life's journey is indeed eventful. It is full of diffi- culties. We must beware how we proceed in it. We must take the true path, as pointed out by our guide. Straight is the gate, and narrow the way, that leadeth to life : alas ! there be comparatively few that go that way ! but along the broad path that leadeth to destruction, what multitudes rush ! Yet, throughout and at the end of the one are peace, and joy, and pleasure ; while in the other, beautiful though it may seem to the eye, are turmoil, and sorrow, and pain. Death in its most frightful shapes not physi- cal, but moral death lurks constantly by the wayside ; and the fiends of darkness skulk at every turn, to lead and drag their victim to ruin and despair. Brother ! take the narrow path ; it will lead thce to bliss : pursue not the broad road, enticing though it be ; it will lead thee to perdition. Follow thou thine honest guide, who will shun the siren way as he would the pestifer- ous breath of the fiends of hell ! m. The road through which thou art journeying may be a rough one. Difficulties may crowd around thee to impede thy progress. The path may be filled witb THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 17.3 obstacles that would intimidate a weak spirit. Indeed, at times, it may be a cheerless and dreary way. It may be, even, that in following it, poverty and want shall beset thee : but keep up thy spirit; look not at present ease, which is but for a moment, but rather at future rest, which shall be everlasting. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left ; make no false step in thy career ; avoid the darkness of error : be thou a TRUE MAN. and act as such. IV. Brother ! if thy heart be stout and thy faith bold, thou shall make thy way to the glorious goal thou seek- est. Yet, the farther thou proceedest on thy journey, the more the energies of thine enemies will be put forth to entice thee to thy ruin. The pleasures of the world, in the forms of Mirth and Revelry, of Wine and Woman, of Pride and Ambition, of Wealth and Power, of Worldly Fame and Glory, will be presented before thee in their most tempting blandishments. Oh, heed them not! they will afford thee an uncertain and brief pleasure, and forsake thee in thine hour of greatest need. They will leave thee when thou shall most require consolation, and abandon thee to a repentance that shall be too late to serve thee, and a despair that shall be full of horror ! Thy time, indeed, is too .brief to permit of thy de- laying to dally with the pleasures that surround and entice thee. Behold how soon the years are gone ! behold how rapidly thou art travelling ! The light of life with thee is already waning soon thou must ler- minate thy journey. 15* 174 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. v. Brother ! cheer thee ! Thou hast done well ; thou art far on thy toilsome way. The impediments and the incitements thou hast overcome are in the distance ; thank Heaven ! thou hast pressed nobly through them. But, alas ! how many, ere they come thus far, sink under the difficulties, or embrace the sirens that crowd thick about them ! Thou mayst indeed " thank God and take courage." Thou hast learned and attained much through perseverance and firmness. Thy prog- ress now shall be more calm : thy foes shall abandon thine as a hopeless case. Thou hast passed the criti- cal point, and shall henceforth proceed more safely. So is it with all who commence this journey betimes ; who set out early for the goal of Virtue and of true Happiness : the longer they delay, the greater the dan- ger I at they shall perish ere they shall attain to the point to which thou hast arrived. Thou nayst not know all that is yet before thee. Thou shalt feel nevertheless, in the midst of thy darkness, that thy Father will not forsake thee. And though a storm more fearful than any thou hast yet encountered that of physical death shall soon burst upon thee, the hand of God Almighty, which has sustained thee thus far, will protect thee amid that storm, and thou shalt come up through it with joy and gladness to the land of eternal delight. In that glorious Rest, thou shalt behold the innu- merable hosts who have travelled this path before thee. Thou shalt join " the Patriarchs of the infant world," and mingle thy voice with theirs in the music of the angels. Thou shalt dwell in the presence of the Most THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 175 High, whose smile is heaven. Throughout the eter- nal ages of Jehovah thou shalt be the associate of angels and just men made perfect, in a land where, far more than in this, Faith and Truth are lovely and divine. VI. Whoever travels the road that we have thus de- scribed, must expect to be ill treated by the world. The wicked and perverse are ever ready to sneer at and discourage the good and the true. Yet we must endure this contumely with patience ; we should rather pity than despise the benighted beings who treat with scorn the dignity of virtue. Are they not objects of pity ? They are pursuing the false and flattering charm of earthly pleasure, which, when they attempt to grasp it, vanishes from their presence. Frail mor- tals that they are, knowing not what a day or an hour may bring forth, encompassed with peril on every side, with the seeds of disease implanted in their na- ture, and the very air they breathe impregnated with death fading as a leaf, and passing as the shadow that fleeth away let us force them from the frightful precipice on which they are standing, and, by the power of friendship and love,, compel them to fly from their impending danger, ere it be too late for ever. VII. Brother ! let the character and conduct of the Pa- triarchs of old, as exhibited in the Bible, be thy study, and, in all their good deeds, be thou their imitator. They were, amid the idolatry and temptation whicb 176 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. surrounded them, sincere worshippers of the God! whom thou shouldst also adore. Amid the base cor- ruptions of the world, that beset them on every hand, they were ever true and faithful to him : so shouldst thou be. They were devoted to all that was worthy of frail man's consideration : so oughtest thou to be. They lived not alone for themselves, but for their age and for their race in all future time : so shouldst thon live. The possession of virtue such as theirs is far preferable to all the power or glory that this world might bestow. It will afford thee higher and truer pleasure than could be derived from the possession of the wealth and the honor that all the money or earthly fame of a thousand worlds like this could heap upon thee. Follow, then, their example, and, like them, be wise, and good, and happy. VIII. Trust 'God with the most unfaltering confidence. Thou mayst do so unhesitatingly : the patriarchs trust- ed him, and were never once deceived. Brother, let thy Faith be firm and steadfast, and no good thing will thy Father withhold from thee. Thou shalt not ask in vain : He will hear and answer thee when thou entreatest his aid and presence. Do thou sacrifice thine own will on the altar of truth and confidence, and in the spirit of Faith approach thy Maker, and thy days shall be sweet and precious ; thy peace shall How like a river ; thou shalt be blest in thy downsit- ting and thine uprising, at thy labor and at thy home, and no ill of life, however afflicting, shall disturb thj mind's repose. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 177 IX. " Faith," says Sf. Paul, " is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts ; and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated, that he should not see death ; and was not found, because God had translated him ; for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house ; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed ; and he went out not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise ; for he looked for a city which hath founda- tions, whose builder and maker is God. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a-dying, bles- sed both the sons of Joseph ; and worshipped, leaning M 178 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel ; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter , choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season : by faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king ; for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. By faith the Israelites passed through the Red sea, as by dry land, which the Egyptians essaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. And what shali I say more? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae, and of David also, and of Samuel, and of the prophets ; who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again : and others were tortured, not ac- cepting deliverance ; that they might obtain a better resurrection : and others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprison- ment: they were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword ; they wan- dered about in sheepskins and goatskins ; being desti- tute, afflicted, tormented : (of whom the world was not worthy .) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 179 AN ODD-FELLOW'S COUNSEL. [CON CLUDED.] I. No man can reflect upon his admission to the mys- teries of Odd-Fellowship, and his advancement through its various degrees, without feeling the force of the truth that " Virtue alone is happiness below." When we speak of virtue here, we use it as a generic term, including every disposition and every duty inculcated at our altars. We have endeavored, in the preceding pages, to lay before our brethren of the Order a synopsis of the great principles of our institution, and the duties we are, as Odd-Fellows, pledged to practise. Never, we trust, will subjects less ennobling displace from our ritual these rich teachings never may the foul footsteps of a recreant Odd-Fellow pollute our temple never may its walls echo to the voice of violated obligations and slighted vows ! Brethren, the task imposed upon you, while it is honorable and dignified, is responsible and arduous ; and it is only by an observance of those rules, which our founders in their wisdom have ordained, that you will acquit yourselves in such a manner as to obtain the approval of each other and the approbation of your 180 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. own hearts. To effect a consummation so devoutly wished, cultivate temperance ; shun as the second death the intoxicating draught it may do harm it can not do good. Odd-P^ellowship most impressively forbids intemperance ; the public voice demands ab- stinence ; benevolence unites with public opinion, and duty commands obedience. No Odd-Fellow can be intemperate without violating his engagements, and no Lodge can retain in her bosom a member guilty of in- toxication, without shamefully violating that truth to the maintenance of which we are all pledged. Another important prerequisite to the performance of the duties required of us, is chastity of mind ; and here we would enjoin the repudiation of all licentious pursuits. No unchaste mind can realize the duties of Friendship, experience the lofty emotions of Love, or discharge the obligations of Truth. In this connec- tion we may refer to that unbecoming practice so to- tally disreputable to Odd-Fellows, profane swearing, as a fruitful agency in destroying chastity of mind. Confessedly an idle habit, by indulgence it becomes fixed, the name of God is profaned wantonly, and the ear of decency shocked by the blasphemy. No true Odd-Fellow should thus act : how can he, when he remembers his duty to his God, and that the All-see- ing Eye is fixed upon him ? If any should so far for- get his duty as to indulge in these things, we should caution him of his danger ; and if he still persist in a course of evil, regardless of his duty, " let him be as a heathen man and a publican :" yet let us do our duty and from his broken and disregarded vows shall arise a voice, loud as the seven-fold thunder, proclaim- ing to hi" 3 recreant heart, " Remember thy end!" THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 181 n. What is the object of Odd-Fellowship, and what is the influence it should exert upon us? We need not be told that its chief object is charity. But charity, in a pecuniary sense, is, in our view, one of the least im- portant of its objects. It has higher aims ; it has no- bler ends. It cultivates the charities of life. Its ten- dency is, to remove the barriers which an artificial society has thrown around its members ; to tear awai the film of repulsion which we find to exist in the world, and to make us feel and act toward each other as BRETHREN. The causes that have been at work to separate man from his neighbor are various. They seem to have existed since the fall of our first parents, and are co- eval with the existence of sin. Jealousies, heart- burnings, and contentions, which were first exhibited in the factious spirit of Cain, have ever since existed, and still are found in the bosoms of all the children of earth. " Mountains interposed have oftentimes made enemies of nations that had else, like kindred drops, been mingled into one." Do we not speak truly when we say that a state of warfare is an unnatural condition of man ? Men were not born to be enemies to each other. For God is not an enemy to man. The fair and beautiful earth, the glorious sun, the moon, the Btars, the seasons all, all speak to us of Love : " From harmony, from heavenly harmony, This universal frame began : From harmony to harmony Through all the compass of the notes it ran, The diapason closing full, in MAN !" 16 182 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. When we meet together, week after week, and month after month, to engage in the business of Odd-Fellow- ship, do we not feel our spirits softened, our rougher natures smoothed ? Do we not feel the influence of Friendship and of Love stealing over us, binding us by the holiest ties to each other and to itself? But it is not the only tendency of Odd-Fellowship to cultivate the charities of life. There is another principle incul- cated by our Society, of more importance than any we have yet considered. Friendship and Love may be ranked among the charities of life, and they form but two of the links in the Odd-Fellows' chain. It is only by the addition of TRUTH that the chain is made perfect. We remark again, therefore, that Truth is one of the most important principles of Odd-Fellowship. " Truth," it has been said, " lies in the bottom of a well." It might be said with equal propriety that it lies upon the top of a high mountain, or in some other place equally inaccessible to man. It is indeed a commodity rarely to be met with in this world of ours. But among Odd-Fellows it comes up from the bottom of the well ; it comes down from the mountain's top ; it takes up its abode in the Lodge, and dwells here as our continual companion. May the time never come when it shall cease to dwell among us ! Let its presence be cher ished here. Let not the sacred chain be broken. ' Seize upon Truth where'er 'tis found ^ Among your fr'ends, among your foes ; On Christian or on heathen ground, The flower's divine, where'er it grows ; Neglect the prickles, but assume the rose.' THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 183 As Odd-Fellows, we should be sincerely wedded to the Truth. In the present state of society, we must expect to find her a portionless virgin, and we must take her for herself alone. Let the contract be to love, cherish, and obey her, not only until death, but beyond it. For our union with Truth shall survive, not only Death, but Time, the conqueror of Death. As Odd- Fellows, therefore, we must be sincere adorers of the Truth. So shall we be above all present things ; we shall stand firm in the midst of temptation ; we shall be frank and free in the minds of treachery. And if we should be decried as a bad bargain by those that want to purchase us, it will only be because we are not to be bought. Closely allied to Truth is the spirit of self-trust self-confidence the spirit of independence. We should think for ourselves in all things. We should be distrustful of the opinions of men. True wisdom lies in the holy of holies, in the temple of Knowl- edge ; and Doubt is the vestibule that leads unto it. Luther began to doubt the infallibility of the pope. Copernicus and Newton doubted the false systems of others before they established a true one of their own. Columbus differed in opinion from all the Old World be- fore he discovered a new one ; and Galileo's terrestrial body was confined in a dungeon because he doubted the existing theories of astronomy, and asserted the motion of the celestial bodies. Let us never yield to the tyranny of opinion. Let the mind ever be kept free. Let us be patient and careful searchers after Truth. Should all others forsake her, we will not forsake her. Should she be temporarily crushed to earth, she "shall rise again." If, like Galileo, we 184 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. shall be confined in a dungeon for saying that the world goes round, we will cry out through the key- hole, " The world goes round still !" We dc not sufficiently cherish the freedom of the soul. We are too apt to receive our opinions at sec- ond hand ; to be content with the opinions of others, and with the researches of other men. We should take the mysterious divining-rod into our own hands, and become diligent and faithful explorers throughout all the wide domain of science, of politics, of litera- ture, of morals, and of religion if by any means we may search out and embrace the beautiful, the true, and the good, of human life. in. The duties which Odd-Fellowship enjoins upon her children are these : she teaches them to be good citi- zens ; to be obedient to the civil power ; to cultivate the social duties ; to be good husbands, fathers, brothers, friends. She teaches them not to regard mere external appearances, which all Odd-Fellows know are often de- ceptive, but to judge of the character of men by their actions, by their conversation, " by their fruits " She teaches a reverence for humanity. She tells us that " MAN" is a greater name than " President" or " King." Though his back may be ragged, his hands hard, and his countenance sunburnt, yet, inasmuch as he possesses the human face and form, insomuch does he partake of the Divinity: and if his character is unsullied and his morals fair, we take him by the hand and hail him brother! We disregard the factitious distinctions of rank and privilege which station confers, and judge of THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 185 men by the only true standard, their intellectual anil moral character. This is the voice of Nature ; it is the voice of God. It must be gratifying indeed, to those who are now members of our Order, to look back upon its earlier years, and witness the small be- ginnings from which all our present greatness has sprung. We were once small and weak ; we are now great and powerful. We number in our ranks a fair proportion of the intellect, the talent, and the wealth of our country. We have brushed away the rising tear from many a widow's eye and from many an orphan's cheek. We have healed the broken heart. We have bound up the bruised soul. When the spirit of the widowed mother has been borne down to the earth, crushed by the weight of accumulating sorrow when her last prop and support has been removed, and the tenderest tie that bound her to earth has been sev- ered the friendly hand of Odd-Fellowship has raised her up. again. Our Order is a living witness that the earth is not all a moral desolation. It has green spots scattered here and there over its surface. And in the wilder- ness of the world there is no brighter spot, there is no lovelier oasis amid the desert, than the Independent Order of Odd-Fellowship. IV. The benefits of our Order are yet to be enlarged ; its sphere of usefulness extended ; its roots will be planted broader and deeper in our country. The spread of Odd-Fellowship will be but the spread of the principles of benevolence, and charity, and love. It 16* 186 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. will be but another step in the civilization of our race- Let the members of the Order, not forgetting the principles of benevolence, turn also their attention .somewhat to the pursuits of the SCHOLAR. For it is he that is the excellency of his country, the beloved of his race, the happiest of men. His vocation does, indeed, lead him directly to the holy ground, where other men's aspirations only point. Let us not only fete pioneers in the world of morals : we may become intellectual backwoodsmen, ever upon the outskirts of ttfl empire of the mind, reclaiming continually from the wilderness new fields for the display of the genius and the intellect of man. Let us become acquainted witn our thoughts ; let us cherish the soul, and our faculties will rise up within us full and fair, like the forest-oak, or the magnolia-grandiflora of the sunny south. Let us enjoy the private, sincere, divine expe- riences of the scholar. Let noble, manly thought be ours. Let us study the lessons of human life ; catch and keep the harmonious strain of upper music that peals from it. Let us worship the immortal divinities who whisper to the poet and the scholar, and make each the utterer of melodies that pierce the ear of eternal time. v. Above all, let us love one another. This is the Divine command, and it is the command of Odd-Fel- lowship. Let us be, truly and sincerely, BROTHERS. " Brother !" Beautiful word ! and how pleasant when kindly spoken ! How much of love is bound up in those seven letters ! how the human heart hugs THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 187 the heavenly sound ! Surely it has a peculiar fitness to symbolize pure affection. Blessed be the lips that first uttered it ! and let the wretch never be known whose bosom could not respond to it! What a relationship it expresses ! It is the name of him who is our equal ; our father is his father our mother is his mother. The love which cares for us cares for him ; and the eyes that weep when we sorrow, weep also when he sorrows. He is our coun- terpart, and has with us equal rights beneath a com- mon paternal roof; he eats from the same table, and sleeps beside us on the dreamy couch. He is partaker alike of our joys and pains ; and when an enemy ap- pears, we stand back to back and shoulder to shoulder. Boys together, we grow to manhood : the stream of life sweeps one hither, and the other thither, and years pass on ; but neither distance nor years can prevent our longing spirits from speeding over land and ocean to commune with our second self. Brother ! Generous epithet ! Every man should speak it lovingly to his fellow ; but how much "more the Odd-Fellow ! Who should utter it if he does not to his brother! The term is his peculiarly; God has given it to him ; and will he not use it? Is the poor Odd-Fellow afraid or ashamed to apply it to the rich one? is the rich one too exalted to call an humble one by so sweet a title ? And is it so ? Children of one family who are, or should be, going to the same glo- rious home, to live there together for ever refusing or neglecting to love one another! Never never should an Odd-Fellow permit an unkind feeling to have a place in his breast against his BROTHER ! 188 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. VI. It is well enough for us sometimes to analyze our feelings and actions as Odd -Fellows, to ascertain whether we are truly actuated toward each other by the broad, eternal principle of LOVE. What is its spirit ? It is mild as an infant's breath, yet resistless as the thunderbolt ; gentle as the lamb, that licks the hand raised to shed its blood, yet more controlling and powerful than the elements that melt the rocks and rend the mountains. The prophet Elijah went and stood on Mount Horeb, to witness the majesty and grandeur of the Almighty. The roaring winds, as the rushing of a thousand cataracts, were let loose from their secret chambers, and the strong rocks and frag- ments of the mountain yielded to the sweeping blasts ; but the Lord was not in the wind. Then came the earthquake : the mountain reeled, as though it would have been dashed headlong by convulsive throes, and shaken to pieces by the power before whom its quaking summit trembled ; but the Lord was not in the earth- quake. Then the devouring fire, in terrifying and ser- pentine streams of flame, flashed along the shattered mountain, carrying destruction and devastation in its train ; but the Lord was not in the fire. After these fearful and portentous sounds were hushed, what did the prophet hear? Nothing like storm, earthquake, or bursting fire, but " a still, small voice" exhibited the power and the glory of Jehovah ; in it did the Eternal manifest himself to his servant. That was the voice of LOVE ; which shall conquer, and subdue, and win it? trophies, when the storm of passion shall have wasted its energies, and the fire of Revenge and Mai- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 189 Ice shall have been quenched for ever. Brethren, he it our intent to exhibit this principle in our lives, and, by example, as well as precept, to teach it to others ! VII. Whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God ; neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer ; and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. We ought to be wil- ling to lay down our lives for the brethren. Whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him ? Let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth. Hereby we know that we are of the Truth, and shall assure our hearts before God. For if our heart condemn us not, then have we confi dence toward God. God is love ; and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. If a man say, " I love God," and hateth his brother, he is a liar. He who loveth God, loveth his brother also. VIII. Our future prospect is full of promise : nothing but our own misconduct can dim its brightness. It rests with us alone whether our Fraternity shall perish or 190 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. prosper whether it shall retrograde or advance. What will give us the certainty of a bright and joyful future as a Fraternity of Odd-Fellows ? We answer, " UNION." The maxim is as true of us as of any body of men, " United we stand ; divided we fall." We have all read the story of the bundle of sticks. One, alone, was broken with scarcely an effort ; but the bundle was proof against the physical strength of the strongest. There is such a union of interests, and of feeling and action in our Brotherhood, that it may be, not inaptly, compared to the physical frame of man. If one member of the body suffer, the entire frame is affected. If we make a puncture on the hand or arm, and infuse poison into the blood, the whole system becomes contaminated. W T hatever is calcu- lated to disorganize and disunite us to scatter dis- cord and foment strife among us must weaken our power and destroy our peace. Brethren ! let union of sentiment, union of effort, union of interest and action, be engraven on our altars and reign in our hearts and councils, and we may defy the sneers and enmity of a thousand worlds ; our Fra- ternity shall increase, and flourish, and become more and more useful to our race and when we shall have passed away in the flood of time, it shall be said of us, what Goldsmith said on another subject : "As some tall clifF, that lifts its awful form, Swells from the vale, and midway leaves the storm, Though round its breast the rolling clouds were spread. Eternal sunshine settles on its head /" THE ODD-FET.LOWS' TEXT-HOOK. 191 SECRECY. SECRET societies, for mutual relief, protection, in- struction, and religious worship, were probably first known in Egypt, in the days of her greatest glory and refinement. History has handed down the renown of the ceremonies which these secret societies enacted at their public festivals. The feasts called Cerealia, of the Eleusinian Order, in honor to Ceres, and the Dyo- nisia, or the feasts of Bacchus, together with the "Or- der of Pontifices" of Numa, king of Rome, were prop- agated from Egypt over all the world. From these orders, Moses (who was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians) probably derived much of that wisdom which made him the greatest lawgiver in the world. From these, the Greeks made models of institutions which lasted to the latest day of their historical glory. From these, the Druids of Britain modelled their reli- gious rites, so imposing that nothing but the revelation of the religion of Christ could have dissipated their power. From these, we doubt not, the aborigines of our own land have derived by tradition their annual festive ceremonies, to which none but their own blood and nation are ever admitted. That such societies existed in all the ancient empires of the world, we have abundant evidence on the pages of history. We 192 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. read that the highest honor that could be bestowed upon Hippocrates, in the city where his art first tri- umphed so signally, was to initiate him into all the mysteries of their secret orders, to which strangers were never before admitted. But these ancient orders, with the causes that made them useful, have passed away before the transmuting hand of Time. The religious sublimities of Egyptian and Grecian mythology have given place to a holier and more simple religion, the precepts of which are written upon all the pages of Nature's great book, in characters so plain, that the weakest in intellect may read them as he runs. Thus has ended the mystery that was once deemed necessary to preserve religion from oblivion. The archives of learning, too, have been spread before the world by the magic power of the press, while Science is knocking and importuning at the door of the humblest of the poor, that its inmates may be made wise. Hence the mystery of that mo- nopoly of wisdom which once existed with the priests of a heathen religion, has vanished, and its altars have crumbled to the dust. But the general diffusion of science, or even the Divine light of a wisdom that cometh from above, are powerless from oppression and want, or the relief and comfort of the sick in body and the broken in spirit. Though Wisdom and Devotion need no longer the veil of mystery over their altars, the heavenly attribute of Charity still loves the shade still loves to shun the eye of the world, and do good by stealth. Let no one say that there should be no secret concert in the cultivation of the virtue of Benevolence. Pharisees may give alms before men, and make their show of THE ODD-FELLCTW'S' TEXT-BOOK. 193 figures on subscription-papers ; they may board to- gether their thousands for splendid schemes of public charity : but scarcely a mite of all their bounty ever reaches a deserving object ; scarcely a drop of their consolation ever relieves the distresses of a really de- serving sufferer. To those who possess a tolerable acquaintance with human nature, and are in any wise familiar with the history of mankind, either past or present, the impor- tance and usefulness of societies in ameliorating the condition of man, in correcting the evils of his" nature, and in bringing forth the latent principles of his mind into healthful exercise, are sufficiently obvious. There are, however, in this strange and contradictory world, many persons who oppose secret societies on the mere ground of their SECRECY, and who ask, " If there is any good in them, why do they not open their portals to the public gaze?" We would ask, in reply, "Are those who make the most ado about the secrecy and mystery of others, willing that every act of their own should come to the knowledge of the world ?" No ! Their stammering tongues and blushing cheeks would be evidence of their unwillingness to surrender the keys of their hearts. The truth of the matter is, that mystery and secrecy abound, and will ever abound, through each and every department of society. That maxim which taught men that a secret should be held inviolate, sprang from a ^nse of the importance of implicit confidence in every relation of life. Those concerned in secret societies only act up to the principles of every-day existence. Is not a man's household the place wherein his best affections centre ? While troubles beset him on either 17 N 194 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. hand while attending to his daily calling, he looks to the domestic hearth as to the Mecca of his heart, the haven of his rest. But if the world were to gaze upon the concerns of his family, or if he himself were to pro- claim all the events which might occur within his little circle, need it be said that all the charms of his fire- side, all the sacred associations of home, would for ever depart? The fact that his family is a small commu- nity, separate and distinct from the mass of mankind, makes it the means of domestic felicity. If you were to enlarge this community by the admission of the mul- titude, would it not lose its fascination ? Yet, upon the principles of the opponents of secret societies, unless he proclaim to the world the affairs of his family, unless his household gods are prostrated and trodden under foot, then, forsooth, vice and immorality must reign within his dwelling ! What would be the fate of every sacred engagement, of all the relations by which the best feelings of the soul are promoted from which arise the greatest blessings of the social system if there were no obligations of secrecy on those who con- tract them ? As well might the silver cord at once be loosened, and the chain of affection become as a rope of sand. There are mysteries and secrets in every department of society, which can never be fathomed. There are secrets which occupy but few breasts, and will never be extended to others ; secrets, too, into which no person of refinement would think of prying. There are secrets among all classes of men, in every pursuit in life, which are held inviolate. Business-men have secrets which they studiously confine to their own bosoms, scarcely allowing them to escape even to those engaged in their service : professional men have secrets. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 195 which they will not reveal to any excepting menvbers of their own calling. Why do not the opponents of secret societies complain of these ? There are none so blind as those who will not see. Men who oppose Odd-Fellowship on the ground of its secrecy merely, and. who, with an inconsistency that would seem to indicate monomania, object to secrecy in any form, as though it were some fell destroyer, may not be easily persuaded. But there are those who sim- ply misapprehend this matter, who are willing to be convinced ; and to such we now address ourselves. If these people could enter a Lodge of Odd-Fellows as members, they would be astonished at the simplicity of our " mysteries." There is nothing horrible, noth- ing terrifying, in our secrets. They have a single object, and that is one which no sensible man would condemn. They are practised for the simplest of pur- poses one of which is that of recognition. Many of our brethren come from a distance to visit the Lodges, and some of them require our aid in seasons of adver- sity. If we had no means of knowing them, we might be the constant dupes of imposture, and the prey of deception and fraud. By the proper employment of the intelligence derived through our " secrets," we can always recognise an Odd-Fellow ; and thus, without even speaking with him, can give him our aid. No matter what language he may speak, if he be a brother, we are able in a moment to know him as such. The " secret," then, of our secrets, is simply this : to know each other, and to prevent imposition. What evil, we ask, can they do to society ? why should they be made such "bugbears" among men and women? But supposing, after all, that our secrets were appalling, 196 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. and horrifying, and to be properly distrusted by those who are ignorant of them ? If we elevate the charac- ter of men, and send them forth to the world better fitted to discharge their various duties, what matters to the world the means we employ to do it? What profit would it be to the unlawful " priers" into our mysteries to know whether we " rebuild the temple of Solomon," or practise the incantations of the witches of Macbeth, in our ceremonies? Some have said that secret societies are inconsistent with, and dangerous to, our republican institutions. We need not argue any abstract political theories on this subject. They are sufficiently answered in the fidelity and patriot- ism, exemplified in their conduct to the world, of the members of the Order. To the initiated, who know how perfectly harmless to all the world is the secrecy of a Lodge-room, this objection is a matter of ridicule. Odd-Fellowship is a philanthropic institu- tion, which has been more successful than any similar association ever established in this country. How many, professing a like object, have had an existence, in all the forms which the ingenuity of man could de- vise, within the comparatively brief space of the last half century? And what of them, save this and Masonry, now remains? Why is it that destruction has been written upon them all, by the finger of time, ere its mould had covered them ? Because their prin- ciple of association, consisting in the mere promptings of benevolence, however good in itself, embraced no fellowship of hearts, no community of interest, and consequently they possessed no bond of union nor element of life. They imposed duty without incul- cating affection ; and they extended charity with the THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 197 cold hand of formality, instead of accompanying it with the warm and generous emotions of the heart. It is the principle of secrecy that forms our bond of union, because it is that which, though it be common to us, is unknown to the world ; it constitutes our Brotherhood, links us together in a community of feeling and affection, and enables us to preserve the organic capacity which in all other forms has crumbled to pieces. If it were dangerous to any principle of government, or any interest of society any precept of morals, or any fundamental doctrine of our faith is it likely that we would hold it out to every one, and invite all to come and be made acquainted with it? Or, if it contained any or all of these elements, is it probable that it could retain in its embrace the hundreds and thousands of great and good men who are enrolled among its members ? Would there not be at least one, among them all, who, scorning the trammels of deceit spurning all obligations requiring the concealment of vice, immorality, and even treason itself would at once unmask them to the world? Is secrecy, in itself considered, a crime ? If it be, then all men and women are criminals; for all, in whatever situation of life they may severally be placed, have secrets which they will not reveal to mortal ear. It is no crime. Heaven and earth, .God and nature, death and eternity, life, love, and even Truth itself, are full of it. Why, then, should Odd-Fellows be condemned for their " secrecy ?" We have sometimes thought that Odd-Fellows them- selves have been to blame for the opposition our " se- crets" have encountered. They are not, in all cases, sufficiently careful in their conversations with the world 17* 198 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. on this subject. Indeed, they have misrepresented facts, by absurdly hinting to their friends and neigh- bors, that there is something in our rites and mysteries extremely awful or ridiculous. They have mischiev- ously pretended that the candidate for Odd-Fellowship must undergo a certain terrifying ordeal, and that he must " ride a goat!" We contend that all this is not only foolish, but scandalous. No brother has a right to bring reproach upon the Order by promulgating such trash. In concluding this subject, we would impress upon the minds of the Brotherhood the importance of not only keeping our secrets, but of discouraging, in every possible manner, the practice of misrepresenting them. If we are truly Odd-Fellows, we shall keep our mys- teries inviolate. Those who fail to do this, have not well learned the lessons they have been taught. They should study them over again, and commit to memory some of the instructions they have received ; so that, by their example, they may convince the world that " good faith" and virtue are the peculiar characteris- tics of a true Odd-Fellow ; for, according to our laws, toe can be Odd-Fellows only while we act like honest men. Brethren ! let us remember this. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 199 THE EMBLEMS OF THE ORDER. THE INITIATORY DEGREE. The Eye. As Odd-Fellows, let us always remem- ber those expressive words, that can not be too deeply imprinted on our minds, " Thou, God, seest rne !" For the eye of the Lord is in every place, beholding the evil and the good. We may also, in this connection, remind ourselves that " a wholesome tongue is a tree of life ;" that the SECRETS we have promised to keep inviolate will never be divulged, except by a man devoid of the prin- ciples of honor. The Heart and Hand. The command of our law is, that we visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan. What our hands find to do in these respects, therefore, we should do cheerfully, with the whole heart ; not grudgingly and unwillingly. True friendship goes out with alacrity to the service required of it : and heart and hand should go forth in concert in the cause of suffering humanity , they must not be divided in their energies. The Coffin, Skull, and Cross-Bones. The decree of Heaven is " Dust thou art, and unto dust thou shalt return." We all await the inevitable hour. What i? 200 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. our life ? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a lit- tle time, and then vanisheth away. Where are the myriads of the human family that have lived and fig- ured on the earth ? They all sleep with their fathers, and the places that once knew them shall know them no more for ever. Oh, let us reflect let us seriously meditate, my brother, on these monitors of " what we are sure to be, and what we may soon become." The Bee-Hive. The industrious man seldom suf- fers the agony of want. Even though his labors yield him but a trifle, he is content in the knowledge that he is doing what he can to support himself. The idler is an unhappy wretch who drags out a miserable ex- istence. While the sleep of the laborer is sweet and refreshing, that of the idler is restless and unsatisfying. No man can be happy unemployed. No matter how rich he may be, he must work if he would not be mis- erable. This is a law of Nature it can not be suc- cessfully resisted. As members of this Order, we must LABOR, my brother if not necessarily for our- selves, then for our fellows. The Links and Axe. "Friendship, Love, and Truth," the motto of our Order how trite it has be- come and how little is it understood and practised by many who make large professions ! Yet what is it? Friendship, Love, and Truth, extended toward man by his brother universally, would make of this world a comparative paradise. It would turn aside half the ills that " flesh is heir to," and produce an amount of happiness that would astonish mankind itself. Friend- ship, Love, and Truth, my brother, is no unmeaning expression. Practise them, and you at least will de- rive consolation from them. Do not imitate the theo- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 201 rizers, who preach our motto through their presses and irom their rostrums, and who have none of its life and spirit; but go out among your brethren, and make them feel that YOU at least are no vainglorious boaster, whose thought is only for the loaves and fishes. Per- form the offices of Friendship, Love, and Truth do not merely talk about them. WHITE DEGREE. The Lamb, Innocence is one of the loveliest qual- ities which adorn human nature. The corrupt laugh at and affect to despise it, but in their hearts they honor it. The temperate, the chaste, the benevolent, and the charitable, are beloved by the most abandoned wretches that disgrace humanity. Innocence of wrong- doing commends itself to all, and he who evinces it in his life and conduct may command the confidence of the whole world. The Bundle of Sticks. "In union is strength,'* is a common axiom. We must be united in this cause of Odd-Fellowship, not only in our corporate capacity, but in our DEEDS. A single individual, if he labor with a will, may accomplish much in the field of fra- ternity ; but a host, united in solid phalanx in the ser- vice of Benevolence, may revolutionize the world. If the four hundred thousand Odd-Fellows we boast of in numbers were to go forth NOW, and put into prac- tice what they profess if they would labor with one heart and one mind in the highways and byways of life how soon might their influence pervade tne earth, crushing, withering, annihilating the demons of 202 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Avarice, and Lust, and Pride, and raising man to the high and holy estate for which his Maker designed him ! Brother, forget not your obligations. Wait not for others, but do your part, though you may be but one rod in the bundle. COVENANT DEGREE. Quiver and Arrows. As the marksman prides himself on the certainty of his aim, so should we, in a higher and more noble sense, study to make our gen- erous deeds sure. We must not perform our good offices at random, but so regulate and direct them as to render them serviceable at the proper time, and place, and circumstance. Thus, unlike the Indian, who desires his bow and arrows buried with him, that he may possess them in the happy hunting-grounds where the Great Spirit dwells, let us hope that the odor of our benevolent actions shall precede us, and trust that the influence of those actions shall be felt and realized after all that is mortal of us shall have perished. THE ROYAL-BLUE DEGREE. Moses 1 Rod. As "the great lawgiver of the Jews" received his authority and was directed by the Almigh- ty, so may you, my brother, by the same authority and direction, go forth as a leader in the cause of the op- pressed. Under such guidance you may smite with power and effect the high, thick walls of Prejudice THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 203 which shut man away from his fellow ; you may pro- tect him from the enemies which would enslave and crush him, by teaching him to follow the example and practise the precepts which the Jewish leader exhib- ited and inculcated. The Dove. The messenger of Peace and Good- will, of Promise and of Hope, what lot more happy more desirable than thine! "Like a tree planted by the rivers, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season, thy leaf shall not wither, and whatsoever thou doest shall prosper." Brother ! be not wearied in thy prog- ress. Go forth ever in the cause of Friendship bear ever the olive-branch of Peace to the oppressed. The Brazen Serpent. But while thou shouldst be harmless as the dove, thou shouldst also be wise as the serpent. Suffer no man brother though he pro- fess to be to deceive thee by false tokens. All are not Odd-Fellows who take the name. All are not thy co-laborers who claim to be so. He who is selfish, or avaricious, or uncharitable, is NOT thy brother. Re- form him, if thou canst, but discover not to him thy secrets. Do thy own work make not him thy part- ner in it. The Ark of the Covenant. The ark of the cove- nant contained the sublimest instructions ever given to man. On these all just laws have been founded. On these have our laws been built. As those sacred deposites were the objects of respect and reverence by the Jews, so likewise, my brother, honor thou the teach- ings thus far impressed on thy mind, and act in con formity with the lessons thou hast learned. 204 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE DEGREE OF REMEMBRANCE. The Scales and Sword. Let us weigh well and truly our conduct and our actions, and suffer the bal- ance to be a just one. The spirit cf Justice will not permit us to impose false balances. If we have erred, therefore, we must not screen ourselves, but repent. Nor should we screen other delinquents, however much our sympathy may be excited in their behalf. He is most merciful who enforces justice on the evil-doer, for it is for the general good : better one suffer than many. The Horn of Plenty. If thou art or shouldst be- come blessed with abundance, be thankful, not in words merely, but in DEEDS. If thou hast plenty and to spare, and wouldst be happy, give of thy abun- dance in the cause of Benevolence. So shalt thou greatly aid in carrying out the noble designs of this Fraternity. THE SCARLET DEGREE. The Bible. What you have been told concerning the sacred deposites of the ark of the covenant, might be appropriately repeated here. The Word of God, 'he Book of books, is the source of all true wisdom, Divine and human. It is a " lamp to our feet, a light to our path," and contains unerring directions and counsel for every phase, circumstance, and condition of life. Study it, my brother. Sun, Moon, and Seven Stars. The sun is the em- blem of power and vigor ; the moon and stars are not only subordinate to it, but dependent upon it. TRUTH THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 205 is our great light. If we, in the course of our pilgrim- age here on earth, realize its power in our hearts, per- mit it to control our actions, and in our turn reflect its strength upon others' hearts, we shall be the noblest benefactors that ever blessed humanity. We must, as Odd-Fellows, be sincerely wedded to TRUTH. For our union with her shall survive, not only earth, but Time, the conqueror of Death. The Budding-Rod. And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, and take of every one of them a rod according to the house of their fathers, of all their princes according to the house of their fathers, twelve rods : write thou every man's name upon his rod. And thou shall write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi : for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers. And thou shall lay them up in the tabernacle of the congre- gation before the testimony, where I will meet with you. And it shall come to pass that the man's rod whom I shall choose shall blossom : and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you. And Moses spake unto the children of Israel, and every one of their princes gave him a rod apiece, for each prince one, according to their fathers' houses, even twelve rods : and the rod of Aaron was among their rods. And Moses laid up the rods before the Lord in the tabernacle of witness. And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness ; and behold, the rod of Aaron for ihe house of Levi was budded, and brought forih buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds. 18 206 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE PATRIARCHAL DEGREE. The Altar of Incense. Let thy offerings, brother, be submitted in all simplicity and purity of heart. Im- itate the patriarchs. Worship thy Maker in spirit and in truth. Call on him frequently thou hast need of his guidance. Approach his altar in the spirit of hu- mility and of love, and ask his blessings, not only on thyself, but on thy neighbor. So shall thou find favor in his sight, and insure his countenance and support. The Patriarch's Tent. The patriarchs of old, who dwelt in tents, whose employment was that of shep- herds, and who passed their lives in the inculcation of the social virtues, were a happy because they were a good people. Brother, imitate their pure example, and thou shalt find the contentment which they so richly enjoyed. THE GOLDEN-RULE DEGREE. The Three Pillars. Brother, have "Faith in God, Hope in immortality, and Charity to all mankind. ' The greatest of these is Charity ;' for our Faith may be lost in sight; Hope ends in fruition; but Charity extends beyond the grave, through the boundless realms of eternity." The chief pillar of the temple we have reared is therefore Charity. Remember, then, that on this mainly depends our superstructure, and fail not, faint not in the practice of this Godlike virtue. The Globe. Let us exert our utmost endeavors to hasten the most desirable period. Let us conquer the world to its own peace, by compelling it to aid us to establish the glorious reign of the GOLDEN POWER. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 207 The globe is the field of our labor. We should not pause in our efforts until the whole world shall be made happy. We should carry our Benevolence and Friendship into every corner of the wide earth, and into the remotest islands of the sea. THE ROYAL-PURPLE DEGREE. The Hour- Glass and Scythe. While we have been thus pursuing this journey, which has brought us at length to the goal we set out to reach, the sands of our life have been falling, and we are nearer the " bourne whence no traveller returns." Old Time, with his unerring scythe, is on our track we can not escape him. Let us now impress this truth let us ENGRAVE it on our hearts that there is not a moment to waste ; that, in the brief probation allotted to us here on earth, the good or ill we accomplish is all of us that shall live among men. DIAGRAM OF AN ENCAMPMENT ROOM. 1J.N3SSO N w m NOTE. It is not proposed to fix definitely which side of the Chief Patriarch, tho Scribe and Treasurer shall sit, nor ou which side of the room the tent shall be. 208 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE JEWELS AND REGALIA OF THE ORDER THE Jewels and Regalia worn by Odd-Fellows have been made the subject of much remark by those who do not understand their object. They have been called " a useless expense," a " token without mean- ing," " an ostentatious display for the purpose of catch- ing the eye." We shall not argue in this place the propriety of the use of regalia and jewels by the Order of Odd-Fellows, but will merely say that there is a sig- nificance attached to them which the uninitiated can neither understand nor appreciate. Yet we will take occasion to remark to our brethren, that an ostentatious display of these matters is indicative of a weakness which the world, and especially the opponents of our Order, will be apt to construe to the prejudice of our institution. In describing the jewels and regalia, we shall commence with those of the Grand-Sire and mem- bers of the Grand Lodge of the United States, and pro- ceed with those of the several Grand and subordinate bodies down to the Lodge. JEWELS AND REGALIA OF THE GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. Jewel of a Grand-Sire and of P. Grand-Sires. A medal of yellow metal, three inches in diameter, on ore side of which is the coat-of-arms of the United THE ODD-FELLOWS" TEXT-BOOK. 209 States, surrounded by an ornamental edging of silver. Regalia. Collar of purple velvet, four inches in width, with a roll of scarlet velvet on the upper edge around the neck ; trimmings of yellow metal. The col- lar to be united in front with three links, from which must be suspended the medal. The Regalia of officers, representatives, past offi- cers, and past representatives of the Grand Lodge of the U. S., is similar to the above. Representatives and past representatives may wear medals of the size and style of that of the Grand-Sire, signifying the coat-of- arms of the State represented in the Grand Lodge of the U. S. JEWELS AND REGALIA OF A STATE GRAND LODGE. Jewel of a past Grand-Master. Sun, of white met- al ; heart in hand. Regalia. Scarlet sash, (or collar,) trimmed with scarlet. The sash (or collar) may be trimmed with silver lace or fringe.* The regalia for all officers and members of a Grand Lodge is as above. [That of the Chaplain is an exception ; at least we have made it so.] Jewel of a Grand-Master. Sun, exhibiting the scales of Justice. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Deputy Grand-Master. Half-moon. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. * Past Grands of the R. P. Degree may have trimmings of ye'loio metal; but the colors of the regalia of the officers of a Grand Lodge should be uniformly scarlet and white. The regalia for a Past Grand, who is also a Past Chief-Patriarch, may, in lieu of any other regalia to which he may be entitled, be a scarlet collar, trimmed with white, the collar not to be more than five and 18* O 210 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Jewel of a Grand Warden. Crossed gavels. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Secretary. Crossed pens. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Treasurer. Crossed keys. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. o Jcicel of a Grand Chaplain. The Bible. Of white metal. Regalia. A white sash. Jeivel of a Grand Marshal. A baton. Of white metal. Regalia. Scarlet collar or sash, trimmed with white. Jewel of a Grand Conductor. A Roman sword. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Guardian. Crossed swords. Of white metal. Regalia. As above. JEWELS AND REGALIA OF A GRAND ENCAMPMENT. Jewel of a Grand Patriarch. Crossed crooks and an altar, represented in the centre of a double triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. Royal purple collar or sash. Jcwlof a Grand High-Priest. The breast-plate,* represented in the centre of a double triangle of yel- low metal. Regalia. As above. Jctvelofa Grand Senior Warden. Crossed crooks a half inches wide with a roll of purple two inches wide, trimmed with yellow, the collar to be united in front with three links. The above described regalia may be worn by a brother who has passed the chairs in a Lodge and in an Encampment in any Grand or Subordinate Lodge or any Grand or Subordinate Encampment. The collar may be of scarlet velvet, with white metal trimmings, and the roll of purple velvet, with yellow metal trimmings. * Head the tventy-eighth chapter of Exodus. Grand H.I' Grand SeiuVVV Cravid.Jun.vy Sentinel. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 211 in the centre of a double triangle of yellow metal. Re- galia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Junior Warden. Single crook in double triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Scribe. Crossed pens in double triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Grand Treasurer. Crossed keys in double triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of the Grand Sentinels. Cross swords in double triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. The Regalia of a member of a Grand Encamp- ment consists of a purple collar and black gloves ; the collar trimmed with yellow lace or fringe. JEWELS AND REGALIA OF A SUBORDINATE ENCAMPMENT. Jewel of a Chief Patriarch. Crossed crooks and an altar, represented within a single triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. Purple collar, trimmed with gold- colored fringe or lace, or both. Jewel of a High-Priest. The breast-plate,* within a triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. High-Priest's robe, etc. Jewel of a Senior Warden. Crossed crooks within a triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. Similar to that worn by the Chief-Patriarch. Jewel of a. Junior Warden. A single crook withir a triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Scribe. Crossed pens in a triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. Jewel of a Treasurer. Crossed keys within a triangle of yellow metal. Regalia. As above. * See Exodus, ch. 28. 212 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. Jewel of a Sentinel. Crossed swords in a triangle of metal. Regalia. As above. The Regalia of members of subordinate Encamp- ments consists of purple collars and black gloves ; the collars trimmed with yellow lace or fringe. Brothers who have taken the Patriarchal Degree only, and who are not therefore full members, wear a plain black apron and black gloves. P. C. Patriarchs wear purple collars or sashes, trimmed with yellow lace or fringe. JEWELS AND REGALIA OF A SUBORDINATE LODGE. Jewel of a Junior Past-Grand. A five-pointed star, representing the heart and hand in the centre. Of white metal. Regalia. A scarlet sash or collar, trimmed with white lace or fringe, or silver fringe.* Jewel of a Noble- Grand. Crossed gavels. Of white metal. Regalia. A scarlet collar, trimmed with white. Jewel of a Vice -Grand. Hourglass. Of white metal. Regalia. A blue collar trimmed with white or silver. * Rosettes, displaying the color of the degree to which a brother has advanced, or indicating the office he may hold, may be worn by any member or offi.cer of a subordinate Lodge. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 213 Jewel of the Secretaries. Crossed pens. Of white metal. Regalia. A green collar, trimmed with while or silver. Jewel of a Treasurer. Crossed keys. Of white metal. Regalia. Precisely similar to that of the Sec- retaries. Jewel of a Chaplain. The Bible. Of white metaL Regalia. A white sash, which may be trimmed with the color of the highest degree to which the wearer shall have advanced ; but our impression is in favor of pure, plain white for this officer. Jewel of a Warden. Crossed axes. Of white metal. Regalia. A black sash. Jewel of a Conductor. Crossed wands. Of white metal. Regalia. Similar to that of the Warden. Jewel of the Guardians. Crossed swords. Of white metal. Regalia. That of the I. G., a blue sash. That of the 0. G., a scarlet sash. The Regalia of the R. and L. Supporters of the N. G. consists of scarlet sashes. That of the R. and L. Sup- porters of the V. G. consists of blue sashes. That of the two Scene Supporters consists of white sashes. The Regalia for members of a subordinate Lodge is as follows : For the initiatory degree, a plain white apron only. For the first degree, white collar, with White trim- mings. For the second degree, the same trimmed with Pink. For the third degree, the same, trimmed with Blue. For the fourth degree, the same, trimmed with Green. 214 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. For the fifth degree, the same, trimmed with Scar let. Of these colors of the several degrees, each one has a peculiar significance, which, in our opinion, should not be revealed to the world. The Regalia of the new Degree of Rebekah con- sists of a collar of pink and green. It is used only by ladies. These are the colors of the degree, and the ideas they convey are most beautiful and emphatic. The Regalia to be used by brothers attending the funeral of a deceased brother, is as follows : A black crape rosette, having a centre of the color of the high- est degree to which the wearer may have attained, to be worn on the left breast ; above it a sprig of ever- green, and below it (if the wearer be an officer or past officer) the jewel or jewels which as such he may be entitled to wear.* The ordinary mourning-badge to be worn by brothers, in memory of a deceased brother, is a strip of black crape passed through one button-hole of the left lappel of the coat, and tied with a narrow riband of the color of the highest degree to which the wearer has attained. Past officers and members in possession of Encamp- ment Degrees, and all other members of the Order, when visiting Grand or subordinate Lodges, are enti- tled to wear the regalia and jewels pertaining to the highest degree which they have taken. All processions and balls, or other ceremonies at which the regalia and jewels, and other emblems of * The Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment of a State may per- mit the Lodge or Encampment regalia to be worn at funerals, either in connection with or as a substitute for the above. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 215 the Order, are to be used, must be sanctioned by the Grand Lodge, or, in its recess, by the Grand Master. And all publications made in the newspapers, calling on the Order to appear in regalia, unless authorized as above specified, are improper, and contrary to the law of the Grand Lodge of the United States. The un- authorized use of the name of the Order is strictly pro- hibited. And all spirituous, vinous, and malt liquors must be excluded from the Lodge-rooms and ante- rooms or halls, connected with or adjoining thereto, under the jurisdiction of any Subordinate or Degree Lodge or Encampment of the Order. No Lodge can hold any anniversary or other celebration, ball or party, where the regalia of the Order is worn, or the name of the Order assumed, without the consent of the Grand Master being first obtained in writing, such permis- sion to be predicated only upon the direct promise of the officers of the Lodge seeking the permission, that no intoxicating beverages of any kind shall be offered by them to members or guests present on the occasion. It is a matter of much gratification that, within the last few years, the brotherhood has so far seen the impropri- ety of too much display, as to regard the wishes of the Grand Lodge respecting public demonstrations. The ceremonies and processions of the Order are now com- paratively rare, and are almost invariably directed or allowed by a State Grand body. Thus they are ren- dered serviceably attractive, and being less frequent, are more largely attended. With respect to the at- tendance at funerals of brothers deceased, what can be more in keeping with the solemnity of the occasion than the simple, unassuming, yet expressive black crapr rosette and the sprig of evergreen ? 216 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. THE A. T. P. W. THIS was adopted for the protection of the Order, and is one of the tests by which travelling-brothers are proven. It is designed for the use of brethren who are travelling beyond the limits of the jurisdiction of Lodges or Encampments to which they belong; and all Noble- Grands and Vice-Grands of Lodges, and all Chief- Patriarchs and Senior Wardens of Encampments, are possessed of it, in order that they may be qualified either to give or receive it. The Grand-Master and Grand- Patriarch of a state, and their regular deputies, possess it ; and none other than members who are placed in some of the positions above mentioned are entitled to receive it. It is originated by the Grand-Sire, is changed yearly, and goes into use on the first day of January of each year. It is communicated by the Grand-Sire to the Grand Representatives at each an- nual session, and delivered by them in their several states to the Grand-Master and Grand-Patriarch, who deliver it to their deputies, and through them to the officers of Lodges and Encampments, as above stated. Brothers who may procure a visiting card for the purpose of visiting Lodges or Encampments in other states, receive it in connection with the card. As a general rule, it can only be given by a Noble- Grand or Chief-Patriarch to the members of their own bodies respectively; but when brothers are called from home suddenly, without time to make per- sonal application for their visiting cards, it is customary to accompany the card, when sent to the brother, by a THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 217 letter, over the seal of the Lodge or Encampment, from the principal officer of the body granting it, to the Noble-Grand or Chief-Patriarch of some Lodge or Camp in the place where the travelling brother is tem- porarily resident, conveying (through said letter) a request that the T. P. W. be communicated to the brother, who will, of course, be entitled to receive it in such manner. CARDS. A BROTHER who may desire to visit other Lodges or Camps out of his district, or who may wish to with- draw from his Lodge or Encampment, receives a card, certifying that he is entitled to the privileges and ad- vantages of an Odd-Fellow. Any brother who may wish to withdraw from the Order, can at any time do so by offering to his Lodge a written resignation ; he is not bound, in such case, to take a card of with- drawal. If he shall take a withdrawal-card, which is always good for one year (during which time he may become a member of any other. Lodge or Camp), he is amenable during that year to the Lodge or Camp whence the card emanated, " whose duty it is to watch over his conduct."* These cards are furnished by the Grand Lodge of the United States, and are signed by the Secretary of that body. They are also signed by the Noble-Grand and Secretary of a Lodge, or the Chief-Patriarch and Scribe of an Encampment, grant- ing them. And they must always be signed, also, in * The Lodge or Encampment granting a visiting or with- drawal card, has power to recall or annul the same for good cause. DIGKST, p. 37. 19 218 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. the margin, by the names of the brothers receiving them. The wife or widow of a member of a subordi- nate Lodge may, by a vote of two thirds of the mem- bers present, receive a card, expressly adapted for her use, by the Grand Lodge of the United States, which is to be signed i.j manner above noted, with the addition of the signature of the Vice-Grand. Such card, granted to the wife of a member, can not remain in force more than one year ; but if granted to a widow, it continues valid during her widowhood. The following is the form of this card : " Friendship, Love, and Truth. 'INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. " To ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, GREETING! " This certifies that Mrs. E. C., whose name is endorsed on the margin of this card in her own proper handwriting, is the wife [or the widow] of our well-beloved brother, who is [or was] a member of Lodge No. , held at blank, and working under authority of a charter duly granted by authority of the Right Worthy Grand Lodge of the state of blank. We therefore rec- ommend her to your friendship and protection wherever she may be, throughout the world, for the space of blank, and no longer. "In witness whereof, we have subscribed our names, and affixed the seal of our Lodge, this blank day of blank, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty-one. [L. s.] " A. B., NOBLE-GRAND. " C. D., VICE-GRAND. " G. F., Secretary." The object of furnishing this recommendation is one wliich must commend itself to the approbation of all men. She who possesses it is entitled to receive the friendship and protection of those who claim the privi- lege of watching, not only over their brethren, but also over all who are near and dear to those brethren. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 219 BROTHEES TRAVELLING* A BROTHER travelling, who may desire to visit a Lodge or Encampment, must be in possession of a card and the A. T. P. W. He presents himself at the door, and sends his card to the presiding officer, who appoints a committee of three to examine the visitor. In a Lodge, one member of this committee must be either the Noble-Grand himself, the Vice-Grand, or a brother known to be in possession of the A. T. P. W., and the other two members must beof theScarletDegree. In an Encampment, one member must be either the Chief-Patriarch himself, the Senior Warden, or a pa- triarch known to be in possession of the A. T. P. W., and the other members must be of the Royal-Purple Degree. These committees examine the brother in the A. T. P. W., and in the Degree in which the Lodge or Encampment is open ; and, if satisfied, introduce him to the meeting. Brothers can visit Lodges or Encampments without this form, if introduced by a Grand Representative, or other elective Grand Officer, of the jurisdiction under which they wish to visit. In no other way, except as above stated, can a brother enter a Lodge or Encampment to which he is not attached, unless it be located in the state or jurisdiction in which his own Lodge or Encampment is working. It is important that this fact be well understood by Odd-Fellows. * When a visiting card is granted to a brother not beneficial from any cause, the Secretary should be particular in stating tho fact; otherwise, should the brother be taken sick and apply to any Lodge or Encampment for benefits, the body issuing the card must refund the amount advanced. RESOLUTIONS. OF the Grand Lodge of the United States on the restoration of suspended members, passed at the Annual Communication of that body in -the city of Baltimore, September, 1870, which supersede all laws of Grand or Subordinate Lodges or Encampments, and must govern in all cases of restoration of suspended members. Resolved, That a member of the Order who becomes in arrears for dues for the period of one year, may be suspended or dropped from membership, but he cannot be expelled from the Order on account of being in arrears for dues. Resolved, That a member suspended or dropped from member- ship for non-payment of dues, may be reinstated in the Lodge or Encampment from which he has been suspended or dropped, within one year after suspension, by paying the amount of one year's dues, and being reinstated in the manner prescribed by the local law. Resolved, That after one year from the date of suspension, a member dropped or suspended for non-payment of dues may be reinstated upon the payment of the fee charged for an initiate of the same age, as prescribed by the By-Laws. Resolvtd, That a member suspended or dropped from member- ship for non-payment of dues, and who makes application for reinstatement and for a withdrawal card, for the purpose of uniting with another Lodge or Encampment in the same juris- diction, may be reinstated and granted a final card at any time within five years from the date of suspension, upon the payment of one year's dues and the usual price of a card. Resolved, That a member suspended or dropped for non-pay- ment of dues, after five years' suspension, wishing to join a Lodge or Encampment in the same jurisdiction, shall be entitled to receive, and the Lodge or Encampment shall grant, upon proper application, a Dismissal Certificate, upon the receipt of one dollar. Resolved, That a member suspended or dropped for non-pay- ment of dues, wishing to regain membership in another jurisdic- tion than that in which he was suspended or dropped, shall be entitled to receive, and the Lodge or Encampment to which he belonged shall grant, upon proper application, a Dismissal Cer- tificate upon the receipt of one dollar. Resolved, That in all cases wherein a Lodge or Encampment has refused to reinstate a member suspended or dropped for non-payment of dues, he shall be entitled to receive, and the Lodge or Encampment shall, upon proper application, grant a Dismissal Certificate upon the receipt of one dollar. Resolved, That where the books of an extinct Lodge or En- campment have been lost or destroyed, the Grand Secretary or Grand Scribe, as the case may be, upon being satisfied of the good standing of any member of such extinct Lodge or Encamp- ment, may issue to him a card of withdrawal. Where the books of a defunct Lodge or Encampment are in the possession of a 220 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 221 Grand Scribe or Grand Secretary, he may issue cards to former members of the defunct Subordinate; such cards shall have the same privilege as a card issued by an existing Subordinate. Resolved, That Dismissal Certificates may be received upon deposit in any Lodge or Encampment, as the case may be, but the privilege of visiting a Lodge or Encampment shall not be awarded to the holder of a Dismissal Certificate. The Certificate shall be provided by the Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary, and be sold as other supplies are sold, and at the same rate as Cards. Dismissal Certificates shall be in the form following, to wit: INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. To all whom it may concern, Fraternally Greeting: THIS CERTIFIES that was admitted to member- ship in , No. , at , in the State of ... , on the day of ...., 18 , and by ... , and that he retained hiis mem- bership in said until the day of , 18 , when he was suspended for non-payment of dues, and he is entirely dismissed from membership in said In witness whereof, we have hereunto subscribed our names and affixed the seal of the 3 this day of , A. D. 18.. [SEAL.] Resolved, That all laws, or provisions thereof, that are incon- sistent with the above General Laws, conditions, and regula- tions, are hereby abrogated or repealed. Resolved, That in cases where the law makes it obligatory upon Lodges to grant Dismissal Certificates to brothers suspended or dropped for non-payment of dues, it shall be the duty of the Noble-Grand and Recording Secretary to issue such certificates, upon proper application in open Lodge and payment of the fee, without, a vote of the Lodge. Resolved, That non-affiliated Odd-Fellows who have been regu- larly initiated in the Order, and have retained membership therein for at least ten consecutive years, and who, at the time of making application for reinstatement or membership, shall be over fifty years of age, may be admitted to membership in any Lodge or Encampment, as non-beneficial members, upon such terms as the local law may prescribe. The amendment providing that a member of the Order sus- pended or expelled from a Lodge or Encampment in any jurisdic- tion or sovereignty shall not be admitted to membership in a Lodge or Encampment in another jurisdiction or sovereignty with- out the previously obtained consent of the Lodge or Encampment from which he is suspended or expelled ; provided, however, that members suspended or dropped for the non-payment of dues only may be admitted to membership in another jurisdiction or sover- eignty upon such conditions and under such rules and regulations as the Grand Lodge may have prescribed, or may at any time adopt, was adopted. 222 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. CEREMONY OF LAYING THE CORNER- STONE OF AN ODD-FELLOWS' HALL. IF a Grand Encampment participates, the ceremony must be performed by the Grand Patriarch or a Past Grand Patriarch. If a Grand Encampment does not participate, and a Grand Lodge does, the Grand Master or a Past Grand Master must per- form the ceremony. If a Subordinate Encampment participates with or without a Subordinate Lodge, the Chief Patriarch, or a Past Chief Patri- arch, shall perform the ceremony. If a Subordinate Lodge alone turns out, the Noble Grand, or a Past Grand, shall perform the ceremony. Should the ceremony be performed by the Grand Sire or his Deputy, the title of that officer must be substituted for Grand Patriarch or Grand Master, as the case may be. An officer, duly commissioned and officiating for a Grand Pa- triarch or a Grand Master, or as Chief Patriarch or Noble Grand, must be addressed by the title of the officer he represents. When the Grand Master, or other Grand Officer, officiates, he, with the other Grand Officers and members of the Grand Lodge present, will assemble with the brethren at the regular Lodge- room, or at some appropriate place, and proceed in procession, in regalia, to the place of ceremony. The procession will be formed as for ordinary occasions, ex- cept that the Secretary, Scribe, or Grand Secretary, or Grand Scribe, as the case may be, will carry the documents, &c., for deposit in the box ; the Treasurer^ or Grand Treasurer, will carry the box to be deposited in the corner-stone; the Chaplain will carry the open Bible, on which is laid a wreath of flowers; the Grand Warden will carry a silver vessel containing water; the Grand Conductor will carry a silver vessel containing wheat, and the Grand Master will carry the gavel. The procession, on reaching a convenient distance from the place of destination, will halt and open to the right and left, so THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 223 as to allow the principal officers to pass through. The remainder of the brethren, closing up in reversed order, will pass three times around the site of the building, (if convenient,) while the officiating officers take their places on a raised platform, erected contiguous to the north-east angle of the building, where the corner-stone is to be laid. Grand Master. My brethren, we have assembled on this occasion to perform an interesting and important ceremony ; one which we trust will have its proper influ- ence on your hearts and minds. The spot on which we stand has been selected upon which to erect a Temple to be consecrated to the great principles of our Order ; and we are here to-day to inaugurate the enterprise by laying the first foundation, or corner-stone, in the structure with the solemn ceremonies befitting such an occasion. The work so auspiciously begun can be consummated only by persevering effort and patient industry; and we should enter upon it with a determination to carry it forward to completion, until its cap-stone shall be brought with rejoicings and the edifice shall present beauty, symmetry, and proportion every way adapted to the uses and purposes for which it is designed. Before proceeding to the immediate duties of the occa- sion, it is right and proper that we invoke the Divine blessing, without which no good work can succeed. Our Grand Chaplain will now address the Throne of Grace. The Grand Master gives three raps with the gavel. Grand Chaplain. O Thou who didst lay the founda- tions of the earth, and in whom alone we live, and move, and have our being, we beseech Thee of Thy great good- ness to command Thy blessing to rest upon the work which we this day begin. Honor it with Thine approv- ing smile, and prosper it to its final accomplishment, and 224 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. to the glory of Thy great name, and the happiness of all mankind. Amen. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. The Grand Secretary will then read the record to be de- posited in the stone, with a list of the documents, coin, &c., and hand the list, with the articles to be deposited, to the Grand Treasurer, who will place the same in the box. The Grand Master, accompanied by the Grand Warden, Grand Conductor, Grand Chaplain, and Grand Treasurer, will then descend to the stone. The Grand Treasurer will then present the box to the Grand Master, who will place it in the cavity prepared for it, and adjust the lid. The stone will then be fitted accurately to its place. Grand Master. (Receiving from the Grand Warden the vessel containing water.} In the name of Friendship as pure as this water (sprinkling it three times upon the stone} I lay this corner-stone ; and as it here forms the basis of this edifice, binding together in harmony and consistency the component parts of its superstructure, so may true Friendship ever constitute the foundation of our social fabric, and unite the family of man in one fraternal brotherhood. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. Grand Master. (Receiving from the Grand Chaplain the wreath of flowers.} In Love symbolized by these flowers (strewing them three times over the stone) I lay this corner-stone ; and as it underlies and supports this material temple, so may Love ever be the chief founda- tion-stone of the moral Temple of our Order, and the divine sentiment of Love ever animate the hearts of its votaries. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. Grand Master. (Receiving from the Grand Conductor the vessel containing wheat.} In Truth represented by this wheat (strewing it three times over the stone) I lay this THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 225 corner-stone ; trusting that Truth may ever prevail over error ; and that its good seed, sown in our hearts, may bring forth its peaceful fruits in our lives. May the building here to be erected for the inculcation of Truth, ever remain unshaken by the storms of time, and our beloved Order ever rest securely upon the Rock of Ages. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. Grand Master. (Giving three blows with the gavel.) In Benevolence and Charity I lay this corner-stone, earnestly praying that as it is firmly fixed in this solid foundation, so may those cardinal virtues immutably re- pose in our organization, and be the constant practice of our Order. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. The Architect will then deliver a trowel with mortar to the Grand Master, who shall spread it upon the corner-stone, and fix thereon a corresponding stone. Grand Master. As this cement binds together the stones of the wall, so may the cement of brotherly affec- tion bind us together during all the days of our lives here below ; and so may the cement of Divine Love, in our Father's own good time, unite us as living stones in the Temple above, the "house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." Response by the Brethren. So may it be. The Grand Master and other officers will then return to the platform. Grand Master. The Deputy Grand Master will now make the proper proclamation. Deputy Grand Master. By direction of the Most Worthy Grand Master, I declare this corner-stone duly laid according to regular and ancient form, and the P 226 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. building that is to rise upon it devoted to the principles and work of Odd-Fellowship. Grand Master. The Grand Chaplain will now address the Throne of Grace. The Grand Master gives three blows with the gavel. Grand Chaplain. Almighty Architect of the Uni- verse, who spake and it was done, who commanded and it stood fast, accept, we humbly pray Thee, the work of our hands this day performed, and strengthen us, by Thy blessing, to build upon this corner-stone a Temple in which shall be taught the great principles of Friendship, Love and Truth, and where Benevolence and Charity shall ever exercise their kindly offices, and be a safe refuge from the deluge of man's passions and the dis- cordant elements of faction and selfishness. Let Thy blessing abide with those who have zealously undertaken the work of building this edifice, and may they be enabled by Thy good Providence to carry it for- ward to entire completion. Bless, we pray Thee, those who are engaged in the construction of the building ; preserve them by Thy mighty power from danger and accident while thus employed. Surround them with Thy protecting care, and may their health and lives be pre- cious in thy sight and keeping. We earnestly invoke the continued smile of Thy ap- proving countenance upon our wide-spread and beneficent Order. Give to it, we beseech Thee, the guidance of Thy Holy Spirit, and prosper it in the thing whereunto Thou hast ordained it. Give it success in all its aims and efforts to benefit mankind. May it ever build upon the sure foundation of Truth and Righteousness, and ever exert a moral influence over the minds and con- sciences of its entire membership. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK, 227 Command Thy rich blessing upon the poor, the needy, the friendless, and the destitute, and open up the way and the means of relief. Bless the widow and the orphan in their affliction, and give unto us sympathizing hearts and open hands to aid them and provide for their wants. And we pray Thee, God of Love, that the period may soon come when discord and strife and war shall cease from the face of the earth, and the reign of peace shall be universally established when the law of Love shall enter all hearts ; and the nations, tribes, and kindreds of the earth shall be united together as a band of brothers, and shall acknowledge Thee as their Father; and to Thee we will ascribe all majesty, power, and dominion, now and forever. Amen. Grand Master. Brethren of , the duty assigned us has been performed. We have begun a good work, which it remains for you to finish. Having entered upon so important an enterprise, fail not in carrying it forward to success, which I am confident you will achieve. I trust you will here erect a Temple worthy of being dedi- cated to the great cause of Humanity, and which will reflect honor upon your zeal in its behalf. The Grand Master gives three blows with the gavel. Grand Chaplain. * The Lord bless you and keep you ; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you ; the Lord lift up his fatherly counte- nance upon you, and give you peace. Ameii. ORATION. The procession will then reform in the same order, and return to the place of starting. * The benediction of the Grand Chaplain may be pronounced after the oration, if desired. 228 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. CEREMONY OF LAYING THE CORNER. STONE OF A CHURCH, ACADEMY, OR OTHER PUBLIC EDIFICE. THE same general instructions as to the proper officer to offici- ate, and for the formation of the procession as given for the occa- sion of laying the corner-stone of an Odd-Fellow's Hall, will apply to the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of any Public Edifice, except that no water or wheat is needed on the occasion. CEREMONY. The Lodge or Lodges to participate will be properly formed in procession, and will proceed to the foundation of the building. On arriving at the foundation, the procession will open to the right and left, and change the rear to the front. The Noble Grand will, with his Vice Grand and Supporters, take his posi- tion on a platform, to be previously prepared for the purpose, near the stone the Treasurer and Secretary immediately by the stone. A piece of music may be performed, or an ode sung, after which the principal workman will address the Noble Grand as follows : Principal Workman. Most noble sir, being desirous that the foundation-stone of this building should be laid with appropriate ceremonies by your honorable Order, I have, therefore, solicited your attendance upon the present occasion, and hope that it may be your pleasure to proceed in the performance of that service ; the necessary prepara- tions are all made and now awaiting your directions. Noble Grand. In compliance with your request, so politely tendered, I now proceed to discharge the duty desired, hoping that the building which will arise upon this foundation may reflect credit upon your skill, and be completed with satisfaction to the owners and profit to the workmen. The Treasurer will then present to the Noble Grand the things to be deposited gold and silver coin, laws of the Order, and other things. The Noble Grand, receiving them, shall direct the Treasurer to deposit them in the stone, naming them aloud. The Secretary will then present the Noble Grand the copper plate, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 229 upon which must be engraven the purpose for which the building is intended, the name and officers of the Lodge by whom the stone is laid, the day of the month and year, together with the name of the then Grand Sire of the United States, Grand Master of State, President of United States, and Governor of State. The Noble Grand will then direct the Secretary to put it in its place, after having read aloud the inscription. The stone is then let down into its place, the Noble Grand proclaiming : Noble Grand. In the name of the Grand Lodge of the United States, the Grand Lodge of the State of , I pronounce the first stone of this building, intended for [here state its object], to be laid in regular form and order. Brethren. So be it. MUSIC. AN ORATION. The procession will then return to the Lodge-room, and the Lodge be dismissed. NOTE. When the owner or manager of any building has invited a Grand Master or Past Grand Master to lay the corner-stone of any building, said Grand Master or Past Grand Master, and the branch of the Order which he represents, shall have precedence. FORM OF DEDICATION OF AN ODD-FEL- LOWS' HALL OR LODGE-ROOM. This ceremony may be performed in presence of a general audience, or in a Lodge-room, with closed doors. If others than members are present, the honors will be omitted, and the Grand Officers will enter in due procession, and take their appropriate seats. If admission is restricted to members of the Order, a Lodge will first be opened in due form, and Guardians stationed at the doors. The Grand Lodge Officers, properly clothed, will form in another apartment, and approach the outer door at which the G. Herald will give the usual alarm. 0. Gr. WHO comes there? a. H. The M. W. G. M. and other Officers of the II. W. Grand Lodge of , who desire to be ad- 20 230 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. R.S. N.G. L.S. WARDEN. CONDUCTOR. a a D LODGE-ROOM. Adopted by the G, L. of U. S., Session 1872, s.s. s.s. L.S. V.G. R.S. nap VESTIBULE, OR RECEPTION ROOM. o i I. GUARDIAN. ""DOOR. o ANTE OR PREPARATION ROOM. 2 o > LOCKER. This Diagram is only intended to show the position of the various offi- cers of a Subordinate Lodge. The location of the doors, either to the Lodge-Room or to the Ante-Room, or from outside of the Vestibule, can- not be determined. It is not proposed to fix definitely which side of the K. G. the Secretary and Treasurer shall sit or face, nor which side of the room the K G. shall sit; but the Chaplain, if there is one, should sit opposite the P. G. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-LOOK. 231 mitted, in the name of F., L., and T., for the purpose of dedicating this Hall to the uses of the I. 0. of 0. F., and the diffusion of the principles of Benevolence and Charity. 0. Gr. Enter, in the name of F., L., and T. The same dialogue will occur at the inner door, with the I. G., after which the Grand Lodge Officers will enter the room, and take their respective seats, the three brethren appointed as Heralds having seats in front of the G. M., when the grand honors will be given. The building will then be delivered to the G. M. as follows, by the N. G., (or Chairman of the Building Commit- tee,) who deposits the keys of the same upon the pedestal. N. Gr. M. W. G. M., the work in which we have been engaged is now completed, and our temple is at last ready to shelter us within its walls. But we first desire that you should set it apart for its sacred uses, and dedicate it to the purposes of Benevolence and Charity, according to the solemn rites of our Order; and we therefore deliver it into your hands. Gr. M. Brethren, I congratulate you upon the com- pletion of this beautiful edifice, which we are about to dedicate to those cardinal virtues which should adorn and elevate humanity, and whose names we have se- lected as the motto and watchword of our beloved Order. Beneath this roof you are to encourage one another in the duties of benevolence and charity; before this altar the good works of F., L., and T. are ever to be presented as the only acceptable sacrifice. From hence, as from a perennial fountain, are to flow the gentle streams of true Friendship, to gladden and make green many waste places. In this quiet retreat are to be cultivated those flowers that Love unfeigned bhall scatter, on the rugged pathway of life, under many 232 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. bleeding feet. Here is to be sown the good seed of Truth in many hearts, to spring up and yield its hundred- fold harvest. It is, therefore, not so much this temple made with hands that should occupy our attention at present, as the great principles that are here to be disseminated. I hope and trust, brethren, that our united efforts, with those of our brethren throughout the globe, may lead to the raising and adorning of a still nobler Temple, which shall be consecrated by the approval of the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe, without the invocation of whose blessing no work should be undertaken. 6r. C. Almighty God, the Maker of all worlds ! whom we are taught in the abounding mercy of the later dispensation to approach more nearly, and call by the tender name, Father ! we would humbly draw near and beg thy blessing on the work in which we are engaged. Whatever is amiss in us, do thou make right by thy Divine power, and in all things do thou overrule our thoughts and deeds to thy greater glory and the good of our fellow-men. Amen. PSALM cxxii. G. M. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord ! R. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, Jerusalem ! G. M. Jerusalem is built as a city that is at unity in itself. R. Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord. G. M. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. R. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem ; they shall prosper that love thee. G. M. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 233 R. For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee ! G. M. Because of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek thy good. R. So may it be. The Lodge being called up, the brethren will unite in singing the Ode, "Brethren of our Friendly Order," &c. The Heralds will then present themselves before the G. M., and receive from him, the first, a goblet of pure water, the second, a vase of fresh flowers, and the third, a cup filled with wheat; after which they will take their stations around the altar in the centre of the Lodge- room, on which rest the Holy Bible and the Charter of the Lodge. Ci. M. The brethren will be attentive while our Heralds dedicate this Hall, with solemn ceremonies, to the principles and uses of our honorable Order. Heralds, you will proceed in the performance of your duties. First Herald. In the name of Friendship, as pure, refreshing, and life-giving as this water, (sprinkling it,) I dedicate this Hall to the practice of that ennobling virtue, which, uniting men as brethren, teaches them to sustain that relation at all times, each in his turn helping and helped, blessing and blessed. Ci. M. Remember ever, brethren, that sweet as the gushing fountain to the weary pilgrim on the parched and sandy desert, is the smile of a friend to the wan- derer in life's thorny wilderness. Cr. C. Grant, Heavenly Father, that we may each BO live that the spiritual temple in our hearts shall be also sprinkled with the pure water of the River of Life, the streams whereof make glad the City of our God. Amen. Response by the Brethren. So may it be. Second Herald. In the name of Love, which, like 20* 234 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. these flowers, (strewing them,') fills the common air with fragrance, and beautifies all on which it falls, I dedicate this Hall to the practice of that highest virtue, which is in itself the fulfilling of the law, teaching us to visit the widow and the fatherless in their affliction, to bind up the broken heart, and to let the oppressed go free. G-. M. Remember ever, brethren, that as the fra- grance of the opening blossoms restores the vigor of the exhausted body, so do the gentle ministrations of love recall life and strength to the fainting spirit. 6r. (7. Grant, Heavenly Father, that we may all so direct our walk and conversation as to hasten the coming of the happy day when the wilderness of man's nature shall blossom as the rose, so that on our dying beds angel hands may scatter blossoms from the Tree of Life. Amen. R. So may it be. Third Herald. (Scattering wheat.} In the name of Truth, which, like the grain sown broadcast on the earth, springs up again an hundredfold, for future use and blessing, I dedicate this Hall to the practice of that most ennobling virtue, which lies at the foundation of all other virtues, and which, devoid of guile and hypocrisy, teaches us sincerity and plain-dealing in all our communications, and earnestness in the inculcation of whatever is good and true. 6r. M. Remember ever, brethren, that as this grain furnishes the staff of the bodily life, so does Truth the staff of the Spiritual life, without which the inward man pines and perishes. Cr. O. Grant, Heavenly Father, that the seeds of Truth that are h^re sown may fall only upon good THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 235 ground, springing up and bearing fruit unto life eternal. Amen. jR. So may it be. First Herald. May we be enabled to practise these most noble virtues, bound in the threefold links of the golden chain of brotherly affection, and may we be ahvays actuated by the blessed spirit of that FRIEND- SHIP that speaks the TRUTH in LOVE. Gr. M. "Let brotherly love continue !" As brothers may we together cultivate all those virtues that adorn humanity ; as brothers may we pass through the jour- ney of life ; and as brothers enter, in fraternal embrace, the dark valley of the shadow of death. Gr. O. And may brotherly love continue beyond the tomb! When He who sent us shall have called us home to render our final account, may we all meet as brothers in that house not made with hands, in that celestial Lodge whose members no tongue can number, and the Master of which is the Father of the spirits of all flesh. First Herald. In the name of the Great Creator of the Universe, unto whom all hearts belong, and whose All-seeing Eye watches over every action, we dedicate this Hall to the purposes of BENEVOLENCE and CHARITY. Second Herald. In the name of the Giver of every good gift, to whom we are day by day indebted for all that crowns our life with blessing, and who has given us for our guide the Golden Rule, we dedicate this Hall to the visitation of the sick and the relief of the distressed. Third Herald. In the name of the Heavenly Father, without whom not a sparrow falls to the ground, arid 236 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. who has promised us that in the day of sore trial He will be the Father of the fatherless, and the widow'? God, we dedicate this Hall to the burial of the dead, the relief of the widow, and the education of the orphan. G-. C. We humbly beseech thee, God, to bless the work in which we have now been engaged. Let the lessons we have received sink deep into our hearts, so that this shall have been to us no idle ceremony, but a means of edification in righteousness, and truth, and humanity. May we all leave this place with our good resolutions strengthened, our charities enlarged, and our hearts expanded in all-embracing love toward our brethren of every tongue and clime. Bless, Heavenly Father, the Order of which we are members. Aid us in the good work of Benevolence and Charity, to which we are pledged, and give direction and success to our efforts. Bless this edifice in the promotion of the good objects to which it has this day been set apart. Let thy protecting care be over the brethren who here shall meet together. Keep their feet upon the right path, and guide them by thy power in the way everlasting. Make them faithful to their duties, and zealous in every good word and work, so that when the solemn close of life comes, the soul of each may be stayed upon thee, in the hope of the gospel of redeeming love. And unto thee, our God and Father, be ascribed glory and do- minion and power, world without end. Amen. R. So may it be! The brethren will then unite in singing the Dedication Ode No. 1, after which the Heralds will advance to the pedestal, and deposit their vases. First Herald. M. W. G. M., in obedience to your THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 237 instructions, we have duly dedicated this Hall to the principles and work of Odd-Fellowship. Gr. M. This Hall being duly dedicated, according to the solemn rites of our Order, the brethren will be attentive while our R. W. D. G. M. and G. W. make proclamation of the same. D. G-. M. In the name of the R. W. Grand Lodge of the State of , and by direction of the M. W. G. M. of the same, I declare this Hall dedicated and set apart to the good purposes of Odd-Fellowship : to the dissemination of Friendship, Love, and Truth: to the cultivation of the principles of Benevolence and Charity: to the protection of the widow and the fatherless, and the relief of all worthy and distressed brethren ! jR. So may it be. The G. W. will repeat the same from his station, after which the brethren will sing Ode No. 2. Gr. M. (First calling down the L.) My brethren, I trust that the solemn ceremonies of this occasion may not be lost upon our hearts. In setting apart this Hall for its noble purposes, we have renewed our vows to practise conscientiously the lessons of our belovedOrder. Let us never forget the imperative command of our laws, "to visit the sick, to relieve the distressed, to bury the dead, and to educate the orphan." Let us not forget, moreover, that, beside these good works of charity, Odd-Fellowship has high and important lessons to inculcate ; lessons that, if attentively listened to and practised by all, would elevate the character of man, and hasten the coming of the promised day of universal peace and love. Brethren of , we now again 238 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. deliver into your hands this beautiful temple you have elevated to our Order. Joy be within its walls, and Peace a constant guest! May these walls never echo with the sound of an angry or unkind word ! May all the influences that flow hence be good and for good, now and forever ! Amen. R. So may it be ! Cr. O. Now unto Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, I commend you and the whole family of man. And to Him, the only wise God, our Saviour, be glory a,nd majesty, dominion and power, now and forever. Amen. The L. will then be raised, and the Grand Lodge Officers will retire in due form, after which the L. will close. FORM OF DEDICATION OF AN ODD-FEL- LOWS' CEMETERY OR BURIAL-LOT.* The brethren having assembled in some appropriate place in the vicinity of the Cemetery, a procession will be formed in due order, and proceed to the place selected for the ceremony, passing around the ground three times, if the situation permits. The Officers will take their station upon a raised platform. Cr. M. IT is not necessary that I should remind any good and faithful Odd-Fellow that the great primal * This form is framed for the use of a Grand Lodge or its Officers. It may be used, however, by a D. D. G. M., or by the N. G. of a Lodge, when circumstances prevent the attendance of the Grard Officers. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 239 command of our Order is fourfold, and includes four principal heads of duty. Equal in prominence and binding force to any of the others, is the solemn injunc- tion to "bury the dead." In order to understand why the founders of our Brotherhood insisted so strongly upon this important duty, we must recur to the fact that it had its origin among a poor and oppressed population, where the hard struggle of a brave and virtuous life too often ended in an unpitied death and a pauper's grave. Therefore it was that when men first bound themselves together in mutual helpfulness, under the then singular name of Odd-Fellows, they entered into a solemn cove- nant to provide each member and his wife, at their death, with the means of decent Christian sepulture. To the praise of our Order, this duty has never been neglected. Large sums are annually expended in its due performance. Not only has want been relieved, sickness alleviated, and the eyes of the dying closed in peace by friendly hands, but the care of the brethren has followed him to his place of sepulture, and a crowd of sympathizing friends has stood around the poor man's open grave. Not only has the sufferer, fallen faint by the wayside, been lifted up and ministered unto with kindliest offices, but men have often been made to wonder on seeing a band of mourning brethren follow to the tomb a stranger, unknown to any in their neigh- borhood except in the bonds of our mystic tie. This is as it should be, and as I trust it ever will be. The comparative easiness of condition of the brethren in our more favored land, does not lighten one jot the obliga- tion of this duty. In the great and just equality of our Order, the same provision is made for all, and to all must it be promptly and without stint extended. 240 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. But the closeness with which we are drawn together in life in the bonds of our brotherhood, has created also a desire that there should be provided for our mortal remains a common resting-place, where we may lie down together to await the solemn summons of the Great Day, and where the poor and needy as well as the stranger may repose among brethren and no longer be thrust out as unclean things. Apart from the con- sideration of economy in obtaining a cheap and beau- tiful place of burial, (while the great cost of interment, especially in cities and large towns, renders it otherwise an onerous tax upon the survivors,) there is a justness and propriety in this arrangement, which commends it to the heart of every sincere brother. Already, in contemplating our fraternity, men have been made to say, as they did of the early Christians, "Behold how these love one another!" Let them also be made to say, as David did of Saul and Jonathan, "In life they were joined together, in death they are not divided!" And now, brethren, we are met to dedicate to its sacred uses this city of the dead, this "God's-acre," as our thoughtful ancestors fitly named it. Remember that this dedication is no unmeaning rite. It means that this ground is solemnly set apart, in covenant with God and man, to its holy purposes, never to be diverted to any other until the last trumpet shall sound and the dead shall arise incorruptible. To the attainment of which end let us now unite in supplicating the Divine blessing. Gr. (7. Be with us, God, in the solemn services of this day. Compose our thoughts into the solemn sober- ness that befits the occasion. Purify our hearts, elevate our desires, and make us fit for thy service. Bless, we THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 241 beseech thee, the work in which we are engaged, and give us strength to keep in faithfulness forever the obligations we now assume. Amen. Cr. M. The brethren will be attentive while our R. W. D. G. M. dedicates this ground, with solemn ceremonies, to the uses of our beloved Order. D. Cr, M. (Before whom there is placed a shovel or other instrument, filled with fresh earth.) In the name of the R. W. Grand Lodge of the I. 0. of 0. F. of , and by authority of the M. W. G. M. of the same, I hereby solemnly dedicate and set apart this ground to the burial of all good Odd-Fellows, their families and friends, and to no other purpose whatever, while the world stands ; so that here their remains may rest in undisturbed security until the last great day, and that here we may come, amid the gentle stillness of nature, to mourn over the loved and lost whom we have deposited in the silent tomb, (strewing the earth,) " earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust!" Cr. M. Yet not to sorrow as those that are without hope ! For we know that our Redeemer liveth, and that though worms destroy this body, yet in our flesh shall we see God. Let us feel, my brethren, that death is but the gate to a better life, and that over the resting- place of the departed dwells ever the bright halo of the hope of a glorious resurrection. Hence it is that we thus strew above the place of tombs, and in the graves of our loved ones, these emblems of undying life, (strewing evergreens;) for we know that they are but sleeping here until the voice of the Maker and Master of all shall call them to himself in the day that he makes up his jewels, and proclaims that time and itf griefs shall be no more. 21 Q 242 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. The brethren will unite in singing Ode No. 4. Gr. C. Be with us, we beseech thee, God our Hea venly Father, in the exercises of this solemn occasion. Fill our hearts with that deep faith in thy holy Word which shall enable us to see, beyond the night of the grave, the portals of a diviner day. Strengthen the hands of those who have prepared this place of rest for the dead, and enable them to keep it sacred to that purpose and to thee. Let thy Spirit descend like dews of consolation upon the hearts of all who shall here resort as mourners, and make them to feel that this is indeed holy ground. Comfort the afflicted, bind up the broken hearts, lift up the bowed down, and give to the bruised souls the oil of joy for mourning, and the gar- ment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. From this place let the glad testimony rise, from many a bleeding heart, that thou art truly the widow's God and the Father of the fatherless. Help us, we beseech thee, to labor faithfully in the great work of Benevolence and Charity. Bless our beloved Order with an everlasting benediction, and make all its works to praise thee. And finally receive us to thyself in glory, so that unto thee we may ascribe glory and dominion, world with- out end. Amen. Cr. M. The natural man instinctively shrinks from the contemplation of the silent tomb. It is to him a sight of fear and a source of terror. The warm life-blood at his heart is chilled by the very thought of its gloom. To such the habitation of the dead must be a repulsive place, fit only for sounds of woe. But to him to whom death has no longer a sting, and over whom the grave can have no victory ; to him whose fears are swallowed up and lost in the glorious assurance of a blessed re- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 243 surrection and happy immortality, it presents a differ- ent aspect. No longer must its precincts be doleful with the wailings of sorrow, or its soil be abandoned to the thistle and thorn. We plant flowers upon the graves of our loved ones ; we cast over them the cool shadow of pleasant trees; we place them amid the gentle scenes of bounteous nature, and from them rise ever the voice of prayer and the song of grateful praise. We have learned to look upon the solemn end of all without terror, as we see one after another entering the dark valley, leaning, in unbroken confidence, on the precious promises of Him who cannot lie. Therefore it is that we rightly make our burial-place a beautiful and attractive spot. This you have already done, my brethren, and I commend you for it. Con- tinue in the good work, maintain in ever-increasing beauty this consecrated place, and the hearts of gene- rations yet unborn will bless you for the kindly labor. The audience will be dismissed vith benediction by G. C. 244 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. PUBLIC INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS OF SUBORDINATE LODGES. NOTE. Public installations can be held only by permission of the Grand Lodge, and in manner prescribed by G. L. U. S. The representative of the'Grand Master (if any) must be addressed by his own proper title any other Grand officer pro tern., by that of the officer represented. The Lodge properly arranged, and the inner door opened wide, the G. Marshal, with white baton, trimmed with scarlet, ap- proaches the I. G. from without. G. Mar. "Worthy Guardian, inform the Noble Grand that the G. Marshal of the R. W. Grand Lodge of demands admission. ' /. G. Noble Grand, the W. G. Marshal of the O. L. of is without, and demands admission. N. G. You will admit him. /. G. You have liberty to enter. G. Marshal passes to centre of room, and salutis N. G. with a flourish of the baton. G. Mar. Worthy N. G., I am instructed by the M. W. G. Master of the R. W. G. Lodge of , to as- certain whether the charter (or dispensation) of this Lodge is in the hall, whether the dues of this Lodge have been paid, and, if not, to request that they shall be placed in my hands, to ask if the officers have been elected for the ensuing term, if they are free from all charges, pecuniary or otherwise, upon your Lodge-books ; and whether you are now ready to pro- ceed with the ceremony of installation ? THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 245 N. G. W. G. Marshal, the charter of this Lodge is in the Lodge-room, and in my keeping. The treas- urer will pay over to you the dues of the Lodge, or show you the G. Secretary's receipt for the same. The officers for the ensuing term have been elected ; they each and all stand free from all charges upon our Lodge- books. You will please inform the M. W. G. Master that we are prepared for installation, and await his pleasure. G. Marshal receives dues, salutes N. G. with baton, retires, and marshals the Grand officers to the inner door. G. Mar. The G. L. of the I. O. O. F. of . I. G. Noble Grand, the Grand Lodge. N. G. In the name of Friendship, Love, and Truth, admit it. G. L. enters, Lodge rises as G. L. passes to the centre. G. Master steps in front. G. M. Noble Grand, by authority of the R. W. G. Lodge of , we appear here, this evening, for the purpose of installing into their respective chairs the officers of this Lodge. You will please direct your officers to surrender their respective chairs to the G. officers in attendance ; and you will now please take your seat as Sitting Past Grand of this Lodge for the current term. N. G. Officers of Lodge, you will surrender your chairs to the officers of the R. W. G. Lodge of . The G. Master takes the N. G.'s chair the G. Warden the V. G.'s G. Sec. and G. Treas. the chairs of the Sec. and Treas. G. M. My brethren, you will please be seated. W. 21* 246 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. G. Marshal, you will retire with the officers elect for examination. It is unnecessary for me to remind you that that duty should be faithfully performed. They retire, and, after examination, return, and are announced. G. G. The G. Marshal, with the officers elect for in- stallation. They enter in procession. Each officer may be supported by two Past officers of that grade. The Lodge remains seated, unless the Ode is sung during the march. The procession forms on the left of the N. G.'s chair. INSTALLATION ODE. Come, let us swell the joyful note, And hail the chosen band, Who, in compliance with our vote, To-night before us stand. Our Noble and Vice Grand will now To seats of honor move, And bear the ensign on their brow Of Friendship, Truth, and Love. Hail ! all our officers elect, Of high and low degree ; Hail! each, with due and kind respect, Whate'er his station be ; We place reliance in their zeal, That they will worthy prove, And stamp their actions with the seal Of Friendship, Truth, and Love. G. Mar. M. W. G. Master, I present to you for in- stallation, our worthy Brother [A. B.], whom the brethren of this Lodge have elected Noble Grand for the present term. G. M. Brother, do you accept the office to which you have been elected ? THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 247 N. G. elect. I do. G. M. Brethren, are you content with the choice you have made of Noble Grand ? Lodge. We are. [If objection be made, the G. Mas- ter will call the officers to their chairs again, and will retire with the Grand Officers^] G. M. W. G. Marshal, have you examined the N. G. elect, to ascertain whether he is sufficiently ac- quainted with the various lectures and instructions to enable him to deliver them according to his office ? Have you ascertained whether he has rendered suffi- cient previous service in office, and is free from all charges on the books of this Lodge, of whatsoever kind? G. Mar. I have, M. W. G. Master, and find the brother competent and eligible to fill the honorable station to which he has been elected by the brothers of this Lodge. G. M. Noble Grand elect, will you promise to sub- mit to your charges to be obedient to the mandates of the G. Lodge of the of , to support the regulations of our Order to act with justice toward all brothers, as is the duty of a Noble Grand ? N. G. elect. I will. G. M. Your apparent willingness to conform to the charges and regulations of our Order, the proficiency you have made therein your moral standing your freedom from indebtedness to the Lodge, and the voice of a majority thereof, entitle you to be now installed into the office of N. G. of this Lodge. You will, therefore, place your right hand upon your left breast, and repeat after me : 248 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. NOBLE GRAND'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Ordur here assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will perform the duties of Noble Grand of this Lodge until the end of the present term ; and will sup- port, maintain, and abide by the Constitution, By-laws, Rules, and Regulations of the G. Lodge of the I. O. O. F. of the of ; as well as the Constitution and By-laws of this Lodge. I furthermore promise that I will not give the means whereby to gain admis- sion to any person, except a member of this Lodge in good standing. I will, to the utmost of my power, enforce the laws, and preserve order and decorum in the Lodge. ' I will judge of every transaction that comes before me without prejudice or partiality see that the obligations to candidates for membership are legally administered and, should the G. Lodge direct, I will deliver the warrant or dispensation of this Lodge to the Grand Master. All this I promise to fulfil, unless prevented by sickness, or some other unavoidable occurrence. To the performance of all which, I pledge my most sacred honor. G. M. W. G. Marshal, you will proceed to invest the Noble Grand in the regalia of his office. G. Mar. By command of the M. W. G. M., I invest you with this collar and jewel, which are emblems of your office. G. M. Noble Grand, you will receive from us the Constitution and By-laws of your Lodge. You are to take them for your guide, and cause them to be fre- quently read in your Lodge. You will please be seated at our right hand. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 249 G. Mar. [Introduces V. G.; introduction, questions, and answers, including the answer of the Lodge, the same as in case of the N. GJ\ G. M. W. G. Marshal, have you examined the V. G. elect, to ascertain whether he is sufficiently ac- quainted with the various lectures and instructions to enable him to assist in delivering them according to his office ? Have you ascertained whether he has rendered sufficient previous service in office, and is free from all charges on the books of this Lodge, of what- soever kind? G. Mar. I have, M. W. G. Master, and find the brother competent and eligible to fill the honorable station to which he has been elected by the brothers of this Lodge. G. M. Vice Grand elect, will you promise to yield a like obedience to your charges, and the mandates of the R. W. G. Lodge as the N. G. to assist him in the execution of his office to use your eiforts in pro- moting the harmony and welfare of the Lodge, and to increase love among your brethren ? V. G. elect. I will. G. M. In consequence of your avowed willingness to enter upon and perform the duties of V. G. of this Lodge, you will now proceed with our W. G. Marshal to the chair of your office, where you will be installed. W. G. Marshal, you will present the V. G. elect to our R. W. G. Warden for obligation. G. Mar. R. W. G. Warden, by command of our M. W. G. Master, I present you Bro. , the V, G. elect, for obligation. G. W. Vice Grand elect, you will please place your right hand upon your left breast, and repeat after me : 250 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. VICE GRAND'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Order now assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will perform the duties of Vice Grand of this Lodge until the end of the present term ; and, in the absence of the N. G., to the utmost of my ability, per- form all the duties he has obligated himself to do that I will restrain every improper sentiment, and strictly administer the obligations to candidates for membership, or cause the same to be done by a P. G. or P. V. G. All this I promise to fulfil, unless pre- vented by sickness, or some unavoidable occurrence. To the performance of all which I pledge my most sacred honor. G. H. W. G. Marshal, you will proceed to invest the V. G. in the regalia of his office. G. Mar. By command of the M. W. G. Master, I in- vest you with the badges of your office. In receiving them, you will not cease to remember that the prefer- ence of the Lodge has placed them upon you, in the full confidence that, while you wear them, their purity shall not be blemished. G. W. Vice Grand, I present to you a copy of the Constitution and By-laws of your Lodge, which you will make your study, in order that you may assist the N. G. in the performance of his duties and this gavel, which indicates that you are to assist him in the exercise of his authority. You will now take your seat as V. G. of this Lodge for the present term. G. Mar. [Introduces Sec. ; introduction, questions, and answers, including the answer of the Lodge, the same as in case of the N. G.] THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 251 G. M. W. G. Marshal, have you examined the Sec. elect, and ascertained whether he has attained sufficient degrees to entitle him to the office ? Have you ascer- tained whether he is free from all charges on the books, of whatsoever kind ? G. Mar. I have, M. W. G. Master, and find the brother fully qualified to fill the office to which he has been elected. G. M. Worthy Secretary elect, will you engage to perform the duties of Secretary of this Lodge faithfully and punctually, and to comply with the requisitions of the Grand Lodge ? Sec. elect. I will. G. M. Having expressed your willingness to enter upon and perform the duties of Sec. of this Lodge, our W. G. Marshal will conduct you to the chair of your office, where the obligation appertaining to it will be administered to you. W. G. Marshal, you will present the Sec. elect to our R. W. G. Sec. G. Mar. R. W. G. Sec., by command of our M. W. G. Master, I present to you Brother , the Sec. elect, for obligation. G. Sec. W. Secretary elect, you will place your right hand upon your left breast, and repeat after me : When all the duties of Sec. are performed by one person, the "Secretary's 0. B. N." will be administered when by two persons, the "Recording Secretary's 0. B. N." SECRETARY'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Order now assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will keep accurate minutes of the transactions of 252 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. this Lodge I will keep correctly the accounts be- tween this Lodge and its members I will pay all moneys into the hands of the Treasurer, taking his re- ceipt for the same and that I will, as soon as prac- ticable, forward to the Treasurer copies of all resolu- tions authorizing drafts of moneys on him. I further- more promise, that I will not wrong the Lodge, or a brother, to the value of anything and I will deliver all books and papers belonging to the Lodge, to my successor in office ; and perform such other duties as the Lodge may require. All this I promise to fulfil, unless prevented by sickness or some unavoidable cir- cumstance. To the performance of all which I pledge my most sacred honor. RECORDING SECRETARY'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Order now assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will keep accurate minutes of the transactions of this Lodge and that I will, as soon as practicable, forward to the treasurer copies of all resolutions author- izing drafts of moneys on him. I furthermore prom- ise that I will not wrong the Lodge, or a brother, to the value of anything and that I will not take part or share, directly or indirectly, in any illegal distribu- tion of the funds or other property of the Lodge, but will, to the best of my ability and the utmost of my power, endeavor to prevent any attempt at such per- version of the property of the Lodge; and I will de- liver all books and papers belonging to the Lodge, to my successor in office, and perform such other duties THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 253 as the Lodge may require. All this I promise to ful- fil, unless prevented by sickness or some unavoidable circumstance. To the performance of all which, I pledge my most sacred honor. G. M. "W. G. Marshal, you will now invest the Sec. with the regalia of his office. G. Mar. By command of the M. W. G. Master, I in- vest you with the badges of your office. In wearing this regalia of the important office to which you have been elevated, it is our hope that you will not for a moment lose sight of the responsibilities resting upon you, so that you may surrender it to your successor with as much honor to yourself as you now receive it. G. Sec. W. Secretary, I present to you these books and papers, the property of your office ; and this seal of the Lodge, which is to remain in your official keeping. You will now take your seat as Sec. of this Lodge for the present term. The " Permanent Secretary " (if any) will be presented by title, in same manner and form as Sec. ; and will take the PERMANENT SECRETARY'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Order now assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will keep correctly the accounts between the Lodge and its members, and will pay all moneys in my hands to the Treasurer, taking his receipt for the same. I furthermore promise, that I will not wrong the Lodge, or a brother, to the value of anything and that I will not take part or share, directly or in- directly, in any illegal distribution of the funds or 22 254 THE ODD-FELLOWS* TEXT-BOOK. other property of the Lodge, but will, to the best of my ability and the utmost of my power, endeavor to prevent any attempt at such perversion of the property of the Lodge and I will deliver all books and papers, belonging to the Lodge, to my successor in office ; and perform such other duties as the Lodge may require. All this I promise to fulfil, unless prevented by sick- ness or some unavoidable circumstance. To the per- formance of all which, I pledge my most sacred honor. G. M. W. G. Marshal, you will now invest the Permanent Sec. with the regalia of his office. G. Mar. By command of our M. W. G. Master, I invest you with the badges of your office. In bearing this distinction among your brethren, be assiduous in discharging the duties of your station. G. Sec. W. Per. Sec., I present to you the books and papers of your office. You will now take your station as Per. Sec. for the term of mouths, as provided by the By-laws of your Lodge. G. Mar. [Introduces Treasurer; questions and answers, including that by the Lodge, the same as in case of N. GJ\ G. M. W. G. Marshal, have you examined the Treas. elect, and ascertained whether he has attained sufficient degrees to entitle him to the office ? Have you ascertained whether he is free from all charges on the books, of whatsoever nature and kind ? Has his bond of office been duly and regularly executed, to the benefit and satisfaction of the Lodge ? G. Mar. I have, M. W. G. Master, examined the brother, and find him duly qualified and free from charges. I have also ascertained that his bond has been regularly executed, presented, and accepted, and is now in possession of the Lodge. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 255 (r. M. W. Treas. elect, will you engage to perform the duties of Treas. faithfully, as required by the Con- stitution and By-laws of the Lodge ? Treas. elect. I will. G. M. Under this assurance of your disposition to enter upon and perform the duties of Treas. of this Lodge, our W. G. Marshal will conduct you to the chair of your office, where the necessary obligation will be administered unto you. W. G. Marshal, you will present the Treas. elect to our R. W. G. Treas. G. Mar. R. W. G. Treas., by command of our M. W. G. Master, I present to you Brother , the Treas. elect, for obligation. G. Treas. Worthy Treas. elect, you will place your right hand upon your left breast, and repeat after me : TREASURER'S O. B. N. In the presence of the members of the Order now assembled, I, , do promise, declare, and say, that I will justly and truly perform the duties of Treas. of this Lodge. I will pay all orders drawn on me by the N. G., or committee duly authorized by the Lodge, after having received from the Sec. a copy of the resolutions authorizing the same. I will deliver all books and papers, and pay all moneys in my hands, to my successor in office ; and I will not wrong this Lodge to the value of anything; and that I will not take part or share, directly or indirectly, in any illegal distribution of the funds or other property of the Lodge, but will, to the best of my ability and the ut- most of my power, endeavor to prevent any attempt 256 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. at such perversion of the property of the Lodge. All this I promise to fulfil, unless prevented by sickness or some unavoidable circumstance. To the perform- ance of all which, I pledge my most sacred honor. G. M. W. G. Marshal, you will now invest the Worthy Treas. with the regalia of his office. G. Mar. By command of our M. W. G. Master, I in- vest you with the badges of your office. The import- ance ancj responsibility of your office will always ad- monish you of the necessity of preserving free from tarnish the honor you have pledged. Gr. Treas. Worthy Treas., you will receive from me the books and papers of your office. You will now take your seat as Treas. of this Lodge for the present term. The G. Master retires from the N. G.'s chair by the left, as he says : Gr. M. Noble Grand, I present to you this gavel, the emblem of your authority, and call upon your brethren to arise. [Lodge risesJ} Receive your au- thority, and take your seat as N. G. of this Lodge. [Lodge is seated.'} Noble Grand, you will now appoint your subordinate officers. Appointments made thus : [N. G. or V. G.~\ Br. , I appoint you [my H. H. Sup., or Warden, etc., of this Lodge, (as the case may be)'] for the present term. Are you willing to ac- cept that office, and enter upon the duties thereof? Answer. I am, Noble Grand. N. G. Br. , you will take your station. After the appointments have been made THE OB^-FELLOWS 1 TEXT-BOOK. 257 G. M. Noble Grand, previous to delivering into your keeping the charter and books pertaining to your office, it is necessary that you should enter with us into another obligation. Place yourself in the attitude in which you were last obligated, and repeat : NOBLE GRAND'S SECOND O. B. N. I, , Noble Grand, do, in the presence of these brethren, most sincerely promise and declare, that I will neither print nor write, nor cause to be printed or written, any part or parts of these charges ; nor will I, in the presence of any person, either read or rehearse, or cause to be understood by any means, any part or parts of them, except in the presence of brothers duly qualified to receive them in legal form. Nor will I, at any time, permit them to be taken from my keeping by any person or persons, excepting those subordinate officers whose various charges shall have obligated them to return to me such printed or written part or parts as were delivered to them, without having made themselves or permitted any others to make any ex- tracts, or take any copies therefrom ; and I will use every effort to effect the return of those books, or printed or written parts of them, as soon as the pur- pose for which they were obtained from me has been accomplished. And I do furthermore promise and de- clare, that I will deliver these books to no person or persons, excepting the M. "W. G. Master, or his Deputy, or to a Committee from the Grand Lodge, and the N. G. who shall have been elected to succeed me. I furthermore promise, that I will not wrong this Lodge, 22* E 258 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. or the Grand Lodge of this jurisdiction, to the value of anything ; and that I will not take part or share, directly or indirectly, in any illegal distribution of the funds or other property of the Lodge, but will, to the best of my ability and the utmost of my power, en- deavor to prevent any attempt at such perversion of the property of the Lodge. To the performance of all which, I pledge my most sacred honor. 6r. M. Having full confidence in your integrity, we here present you with the books pertaining to your office, the Constitution, By-laws, Rules and General Regulations of the Grand Lodge of the of , and the Charter under which this Lodge exists. And it is your duty that these, severally, shall be present in the Lodge, when open, and at the installation of your successor. CHARGES TO BE DELIVERED BY THE INSTALLING OFFICERS. M. N. G. : You have been elected and installed into the office of N. G. of Lodge, No. , for the present term, and until the installation of your suc- cessor : and as it will be your duty to preside at the meetings of the Lodge, much of the peace, harmony, and prosperity thereof will depend upon you. It is therefore necessary that you should deeply impress on your mind the important duties of your station. Among them, we would particularly bring to your notice the necessity of requiring the regular indications of good standing of every person who desires to visit your Lodge. Admit none, unless it be your own THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 259 members, without them. In the performance of your duties, act without fear or partiality ; be zealous, yet temper your zeal with prudence, and maintain in your- self a tranquil temper, a generous disposition, and an unsullied character, that your decisions and instruc- tions may be received with respect, and attentively ob- served. You are bound to obey the laws of the Grand Lodge, and to execute those of the Lodge over which you preside : you must therefore screen none who may violate them, and enforce the transaction of Lodge business with punctuality and dispatch. W. V. G. : You must carefully attend to the support of order in the Lodge ; and at all times, when the N. G. is otherwise engaged, his duties will devolve upon you ; and should he, at any time, omit anything apper- taining to his office, it will be not only your privilege, but your duty, to apprise him thereof. When there is a Permanent Secretary, omit the portion in italics. W. S. : You are charged with the care of the books of the Lodge ; you must keep a record of the pro- ceedings of every Lodge meeting; you must fill up all summonses, and write all letters and communica- tions that may be ordered by the N. G. You must be punctual, correct, and faithful in the discharge of your office ; you must keep your accounts regularly posted, so that no dispute arise, and be ready at all times to render the jV. G. statements of the arrears of brethren, so that their rights be not abused : and no person is privi- leged to interfere with your books, except the N. G., the M. W. G. Master, or the E. W. Deputy G. Master of your district. At the end of your term you will 260 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT -BOOK. render a faithful report of the work of the Lodge for the Grand Lodge, and every assistance required by the committee appointed to examine the books, etc. W. Treas. : You have in charge the funds of this Lodge ; be correct, careful, and honest, and secure the Lodge against any loss, or probability of loss, by or through you. On a proper management of the fiscal concerns of a Lodge, mainly depends its ability to render assistance where it is needed, and at the time it may be required. It is expected of you to keep your accounts in such a manner as to enable you to inform the Lodge of its pecuniary condition ; so that you can, at any moment, when called upon, surrender your trust, together with all books, papers, and funds in your possession, belonging to the Lodge. W. P. S. : You are charged with the care of the accounts between this Lodge and its members ; you must be punctual, correct, and faithful in the discharge of your duty ; keep your accounts regularly posted, so that no dispute arise, and be ready at all times to render to the N. G. statements of the arrears of the brethren, so that their rights be not abused. At the end of your term of office, you will prepare for the Grand Lodge the annual report required by the regu- lations, and, at the end of each term, render such facilities to the committee appointed to examine the books, etc., as may be required by them. No person is at liberty to interfere with your books, etc., except the N. G., the M. W. G. Master, or the K. W. D. G. Master of your district. The G. Marshal will present the Warden and 0. Guardian thus: THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 261 G. Mar. I present to you Br. , who has been appointed [W. or O. G.] of this Lodge, and whom, on examination, I find to have attained the proper degrees for the office. G. M. W. W. : Your duty calls upon you to do all you can while in the Lodge to make the brothers comfortable. You must examine every person in the room when the Lodge is about to be opened, deliver your charge to candidates at initiation, take care of the regalia of the Lodge, and convey all summonses that may be issued. W. O. G. : You have charge of the ante-room you will see that no person shall enter it who cannot prove himself according to the regulations of the Order. You will secure the outer door against im- proper intrusion ; and submit all cases of doubt to the N. G. for decision. W. C. : You will receive candidates for initiation in the ante-room, give the charge according to your office, and assist the Worthy Warden while in the Lodge. W. I. G. : Prove every brother, before you admit him, according to the regulations of our Order; see that he is in proper regalia; report his name to the N. G. for, when the door is in charge of the V. G., to that officer), and let no one pass out, or return, with- out the V. G.'s password of the night. W. R. H. S. of the N. G. : It is your duty to open and close the Lodge in due form, to advise with the N. G., and to take his seat during a temporary absence. W. L. H. S. of the N. G. : It is your 'duty to see that every brother who enters the room is in proper regalia, and makes his address to the chair. 262 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. W. R. and L. S. of the Y. G. : The duties of your stations require you to support the L. S. of the N. G. in the duty of his office. The R. S. will take the seat of the V. G. during a temporary absence. W. R. and L. Scene Sup. : You will assist at initi- ations according to your offices. After an address (if any) by the G. Master: G. H. And now, W. Grand Marshal, proclaim the installation completed. G. Mar. And now, by command of the M. W. G. Master, and in the name and by the authority of the R,. W. G. Lodge of , of the I. O. O. F., I do declare the officers of Lodge, No. , installed into their respective offices for the current term in ["Ample " or "Regular"] form.* When about to retire, the installing officers will notify the N. G.; the Lodge will rise, and the G. L. will retire in procession, pre- ceded by the G. Marshal, the G. Master bringing up the rear. * If by a Grand Master, " Ample Form ; " if by a Deputy G. M. or D. D. G. Master, " Regular Form ; " if by a P. G. Officer or a P. G., " Form." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 263 FUNERAL CEREMONIES. 1. AT the time appointed for the Lodge of which the deceased brother was a member to assemble at the Lodge-room, the Noble Grand, or, in his absence, the Vice Grand, or, in the absence of both, the Senior Past Grand present, will appoint a Marshal and such Assistant Marshals as may be necessary ; and should the Lodge have no Chaplain, a Chaplain will also be appointed, after which the Lodge will be formed in procession by the Marshal in proper order. 2. The funeral procession must form in the manner prescribed by the forms of the Order for other processions, and precedence must be observed as therein set forth and prescribed. 3. The Regalia to be worn by all members of the Order when attending the funeral of a deceased brother must be a black crape rosette, having a centre of the color of the highest degree to which the wearer may have attained, to be worn on the left breast ; above it a sprig of evergreen, and below it (if the wearer be an Elective or Past Officer) the jewel or jewels which, as such, he may be entitled to wear. 4. The ordinary mourning badge to be worn by brothers in memory of a deceased brother, is a strip of black crape passed through one buttonhole only of the left lapel of the coat, and tied with a narrow ribbon of the color of the highest degree to which the wearer may have attained. The several State Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments may permit the usual Regalia of the Order to be worn at funerals, either in connection with or as a substitute for the Regalia above described. The prescribed street uniform for Patriarchs may also be worn in funeral pro- cessions, with proper permission. 5. On funeral occasions the Marshal must wear a black scarf, and carry a baton bound with black crape. The Outside Guardian must carry a red wand bound with black crape. The Scene Supporters must each carry a white wand bound with black crape. The Chaplain must wear a white scarf. The Inside Guardian must carry the Regalia and insignia indi- cating the rank in the Order of the deceased brother. 264 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. The Supporters of the Vice Grand must each carry his wand of office bound with black crape. The Warden must carry the are bound with black crape. The Conductor must carry his wand of office bound with black crape. The Supporters of the Noble Grand must each carry his wand of office bound with black crape. 6. If, at the time of his death, the deceased brother was a member of an Encampment, the Encampment may attend the funeral in a body, in order similar to that prescribed for Lodges, and shall take the position in line designated in the proper form for processions ; but in all cases the funeral ceremonies shall be conducted by the Subordinate Lodge, except that if the brother was an elective officer or past officer of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, then the ceremonies may be conducted by such Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment. 7. Invited brethren, or those participating who are members of other Lodges, will take places with the members of the Lodge or Encampment, according to their rank. The Lodges and Encampments, where more than one attend, must be arranged in order of juniority, preceding the Lodge conducting the cere- monies. 8. On arriving at the place appointed for the starting of the funeral, the procession will take position in the foregoing order, immediately before the corpse, and shall precede it to the place of interment. 9. On arriving at the place of interment, the procession will halt, and the brothers will open right and left and allow the corpse, mourners, and near friends to pass through, the brothers standing uncovered, the hat held in the left hand, and joining hands with each other. After the passing of the corpse, mourners, and near friends between the two lines, the brothers will reform in procession after them, in reversed order, within the place of interment, and take position as near the grave as possible, taking care not to incommode the moving friends. 10. After the performance of such religious service as the friends of the deceased may cause to be there performed, and before the closing of the grave, the brethren will form silently, and as near as may be in the order in which they marched, uncovered, the hat in the left hand, and joining hands with each other in one or THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 265 more circles, as regularly as the nature of the ground will per- mit around the grave, when the Chaplain, or, if there be no Chap- lain, the Noble Grand may address the brothers and offer up a prayer, or may address the brethren without the offering of a prayer ; and after such address or prayer, or both, or if there be no address or prayer, then, after a pause suited to the solemnity of the occasion, the Noble Grand will advance singly to the head of the grave, and cast into it with the right hand the sprig of evergreen from his regalia, and shall return to his place ; afier which, the brothers, from left to right, in regular succession, and in such numbers at a time as not to cause, confusion, shall advance to the grave, shall cast into it (each with the right hand) the sprig of evergreen from their regalia, and shall return to their place. After all have done this, the brothers shall silently reform into procession according to the order observed in coming to the place of interment, and shall return in such order to the Lodge- room, where the Noble Grand shall declare the funeral ceremo- nies closed. 11. Either of the following forms of funeral ceremony may be used at the option of the Lodge, but if any form of address or prayer is used it must be one of them. FUNERAL, CEREMONY, No. 1. 1. We are assembled, my brethren, to render the last office which the living may minister to the dead. Man is born to die. The coffin, the grave, the sepul- chre, speak to us in language that cannot be misunder- stood, however unheeded it may be, of "man's latter end." Youth in its harmlessness and comparative inno- cency, and manhood with its wonted vigor and pride of strength, are not more exempt than decrepit and totter- ing age from the fixed law of being which dedicates all that is mortal to decay and death. This truth is inscribed in the great volume of nature upon its every page. The beautiful and the sublime which the handiwork of the Creator displays on our every side, are fearfully associated with the unerring 23 266 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. certainty of the end of all things with the vividness of the moral which they are ever suggesting to the contem- plative mind. Day after day we are called upon to follow our fellow- creatures to that bourne whence no traveller returns ; but from the house of mourning we go forth again to mingle in the crowded world, heedless perhaps of the precarious tenure of life and the certainty of that end to which all flesh is rapidly tending. He who gives the vigor of body, without warning paralyzes the stout heart, and strikes down the athletic frame : the living of to-day become the dead of the morrow. 2. Men appear upon and disappear from the stage of life, as wave meets wave and parts upon the troubled waters. " In the midst of life we are in death." He whose lips now echo these tones of solemn warning, in turn will be stilled in the cold and cheerless house of the dead, and in the providence of God none may escape. Let us then so far improve the lesson as to be prepared for that change which leads to life eternal. PRAYER. Our Father and our God, who art the resurrection and the life in whom whosoever believeth shall live though he die, and whosoever liveth and believeth in Thee shall not die hear, we beseech Thee, the voice of Thy crea- tures here assembled, and turn not away from our suppli- cations. We humbly beseech Thee so to imbue us with a con- viction of our entire helplessness and dependence upon Thee, that we may be brought to meditate upon the un- certainty of life and the certainty of death. In the dis- pensation of Thy Providence, Thou hast summoned from among us our brother, and we, the surviving monuments THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 267 of Thy mercy, are gathered together to commit his re- mains to the earth. Give, O God, we beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit to us whom Thou hast spared ; increase our knowledge, and confirm our faith in Thee, forever. [Bless and comfort, we pray Thee, those whom it has pleased Thee to add to the number of the disconsolate ; buoy them up under this heavy stroke, sustain them against despondency. Oh ! wilt Thou be their Father and their God, and pour down from on high Thy bless- ings upon their heads.] Bless, O heavenly Father, the brethren here assembled ; imbue them with the wisdom of Thy laws, and draw them unto Thee by the cords of Thy inestimable love; impress them with their duty to each other as brethren, and their obligations in the various relations of human life; and finally, bless our beloved Order throughout the globe. Preserve its prin- ciples and its purposes from innovation ; sustain it from the shafts of enmity, protect it from self-immolation, and shield it from all evil, and unto Thee we shall render the praise forever. Amen. Here, after depositing the Sprig, the Choir may sing either Funeral Ode in Funeral Ceremony, No. 2. FUNERAL. CEREMONY, No. 2. NOBLE GRAND. Brethren of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows : We are assembled to perform the last office which the living can render to the dead. Be attentive, therefore, to the instruction now to be imparted. CHAPLAIN. MY BRETHREN : A solemn occasion brings us here to-day ; and as the coffin and the grave so forcibly speak to us of our mortnl- ity, may we not ask with the Psalmist, " Lord, what is man, that Thou art mindful of him, and the son of man, that thou visitest him ? " From the Sacred Scriptures comes the response : " Man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He 268 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down ; he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not." " We bring our years to an end, as it were a tale that is told. The dust shall return to the earth as it was, and the spirit shall return unto God, who gave it." In obedience to the Divine will, our Brother has been removed from earth and its associations. But, though he be dead, shall he not live again ? Yea, verily ; for it is said in Holy Writ, " Though I walk through the valley and shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me ; Thy rod and Thy staff com- fort me. My flesh, also shall rest in hope, for Thou wilt not leave my soul in the grave." Thus, though we now deposit in the earth the mortal remains of our beloved Brother, we have an assurance of meeting again, at the coming of that day to which Hope looks forward with ar- dent joy, when the tears and woes of this life shall be submerged in the healing tide that flows from the eternal fountain of Divine Peace and Love. Our help is in the name of the Lord, and though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. Take heed, then, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. In His presence is fulness of joy ; at his right hand are pleasures forevermore. NOBLE GRAND. [Casting a sprig of evergreen into the grave.] As Odd Fellows, we deposit this evergreen in the grave of our deceased Brother, as a token that while we bury his frailties with his body, his virtues shall dwell greenly in our memories. [The brothers will now deposit their evergreens ; after which either of the following hymns may be sung:] HYMN I. C. M. Few are thy days, and full of woe, man, of woman born ; Thy doom is written, "Dust thou art, To dust thou shall return." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 269 Behold the emblem of thy state In flowers that bloom and die : Or in the shadow's fleeting form That mocks the gazer's eye. Determined are the days that fly Successive o'er thy head ; The number'd hour is on the wing, That lays thee with the dead. Great God, afflict not in thy wrath, The short allotted span That bounds the few and weary days Of pilgrimage to man. HYMN II. 7's. AIR Norwich. Solemn strikes the funeral chime, Notes of our departing time, As we journey here below Through a pilgrimage of woe. Mortals now indulge a tear, For Mortality is here : See how wide her trophies wave O'er the slumbers of the grave. God of life's eternal day, Guide us, lest from Thee we stray, By a false delusive light, To the shades of endless night. Lord of all below, above, Fill our souls with truth and love ; When dissolved our earthly tie, Take us to Thy home on high. PRAYER BY CHAPLAIN. Almighty and Eternal God, the Creator and Redeemer of all mankind, we pray Thee to impress us with a sense of the short- ness and uncertainty of human life. In Thy hands alone are the 270 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. issues of life and death, and we humbly beseech Thee to look upon us in mercy, while we weep with those that weep. Grant that we who survive may put our trust in Thee, and do those things which are pleasing in Thy sight. 0, merciful God, we commend to Thy unfailing goodness those whom it hath pleased Thee to add to the number of the sorrowing. Remember them in mercy, and sanctify thy fatherly correction to them. Give them patience under their affliction, and resignation to Thy will. Be Thou their strength and shield, and relieve them according to their needs. Bless our beloved Order here and everywhere. May Friendship and Love abide with us, while Thy Spirit leads us in the way of Truth. Maintain peace and prosperity within our borders; shield us from the shafts of enmity, and make us dwell in unity faithful in principle and fruitful in good works. And unto Thy holy name be ascribed the honor and glory for ever. The Lord bless you and keep you ; the Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you ; the Lord lift up His fatherly countenance upon you, and give you peace, now and evermore. Amen. CEREMONY TO BE OBSERVED AT THE CELE- BRATION OF THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE ORDER. IF the meeting be of the membership alone, in the Lodge room, then the regular opening ceremonies shall be gone through with, and such other business transacted as may be necessary, which being done, the Noble Grand shall commence the service of the day as follows, viz. : [NOTE. That if the meeting be a public one, the above direc- tion is to be dispensed with, and the N. G. having called the meeting to order, shall say :] N. G. The Worthy Chaplain will invoke the blessing of God upon this meeting. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 271 PRAYER BY THE CHAPLAIN. Almighty and ever-living God, from whom cometh every good and perfect gift, and without whom nothing can prosper, we in- voke Thy blessing upon us as we are here assembled. Direct us in all our doings with Thy most gracious favor, and let the words of our mouths, and the meditations of our hearts, while we wait before Thee, be acceptable in Thy sight, Lord, our strength and our Redeemer. Amen. N. G. Vice Grand, for what intent has this convo- cation of brethren been assembled ? V. G. In obedience to the proclamation of the Most Worthy Grand Sire, in order that we may render, as is justly due, devout thanksgiving to the beneficent and almighty Power, who has preserved our lives, protected and prospered our beloved Order. N. G. The Secretary will read the proclamation of the Most Worthy Grand Sire. [Here the proclamation of the M. W. Grand Sire, and, if there be one, of the M. W. Grand Master, shall be read by the Secre- tary.] N. G. Vice Grand, when and where had American Odd Fellowship its beginning ? V. G. In the city of Baltimore, on the memorable day of which this is the anniversary, April 26th, Anno Domini 1819. N. G. Who were its founders and first advocates? V. G. THOMAS WILDEY, JOHN WELCH, JOHN DUNCAN, JOHN CHEATHEM, and EICHAKD RUSH- WORTH. N. G. What were their objects and purposes? V. G. Those promulgated in all our charters, viz. : " For the aid and protection of brothers when in sick- 272 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ness and on travel, and for the purposes of benevo- lence and charity." N. G. Was there any special rule laid down for the Order's guidance, in the furtherance of this work? V. G. Yes, all is comprehended in the legend on the seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States, which legend is the mandate of the Order. "We command you to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan." N. G. Was this rule intended to apply to men of any particular party or creed ? V. G. No ; it is comprehensive as the human race. It rises above party, sect or creed. Here all believers in the one living and true God may unite in the bonds of a universal brotherhood. N. G. Is it intended either to supersede or to sup- plement creeds, beliefs, or ordinances, in matters of religion? V. G. By no means. No intelligent individual can by any possibility so construe it. It assumes no prerogative of the spiritual. Its members are free and untrammelled in all that lies between their God and themselves. It interferes with no duty which they, of conscience, owe to God, their country, their families or themselves. It is a minister only to UAAU'S temporal needs. It seeks but To meliorate the sorrows of mankind, Relieve the poor, the sick, the maim, the blind Lift up the drooping heart ; the widow cheer, And wipe away the helpless orphan's tear. To form of men one wide-spread brotherhood Linked only in the bonds of doing good. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 273 N. G. Has the Order been true to its assumed mis- sion, and have its labors been crowned with success? V. (r. Its work has been achieved with manifest imperfection, but with uniform faithfulness. It has increased in membership until the little band has be- come a vast army. Millions have been expended in its ministrations, and its accumulated millions yet re- main for the carrying on of the well-begun work. Man has been drawn closer to his brother-man ; sorrow untold has. been alleviated in the past, and it is gather- ing strength for its work in the years to come. It has increased in excellence as it has grown in age. Gloriously has it prospered, and its labors have been crowned with most abundant success. N. G. Then, my Brethren, it is meet and right, and our bounden duty, that we should at all times, and especially on this day, so auspicious in the annals of our Order, come before the Great God, in whom we trust, with heartfelt thanksgiving for the prosperity He has vouchsafed, and for the good He has enabled us to do, and, with hearty acknowledgment of His hand in all our successes, our progress and improve- ment, to rejoice before Him, and ascribe to Him all the honor and glory. Let us sing His praise ; let us thank Him for the past ; let us implore the continu- ance of His protecting care. [Either of the following hymns may be sung:] THANKSGIVING HYMN. TUNE " Coronation." All glorious, mighty Lord, to Thee Our grateful song we raise ; Blest source of our prosperity, Thy guardian care we praise. S 274 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Our Order, once a little band, In weakness and in fear Besought the guidance of Thy hand, Its thorny path to cheer. The few, through Thy preserving care, Are now a mighty host ; And Thou, who hearkened to our prayer, Shalt be our constant boast. Oft mid despondency and tears, Our weary feet have gone ; But Thou, through long eventful years, Hast safely led us on. Then joyfully our hymns of praise, In gratitude we frame ; Our hallelujahs high we raise To Thy Almighty name. ANNIVERSARY HYMN. TUNE " Old Hundred." Father of love ! Whose tender care Hast kept us through another year ; With tuneful voices, now we raise, Our hearts to Thee in grateful praise. For mercies past, for joys to come, For health, and happiness, and home, For friendship pure, for love and truth, That crown our age and cheer our youth: Accept our thanks, our labors bless, And to our efforts grant success, And to thine honor we will raise Unceasing hymns of prayer and praise. N. G. The Chaplain will lead us in thanksgiving and prayer. PRAYER. Thou, who rulest in the armies of Heaven and doest Thy will amongst the inhabitants of the earth, Thou, the Lord God, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 275 infinite in all Thy perfections, glorious in Thy holiness, wonder- ful in all Thy works, we acknowledge Thee as Thou hast revealed Thyself, as the source of life and of every blessing, and we come before Thee with our offering of praise and thanksgiving for the goodness and mercy with which Thou hast crowned our days. We recognize Thy wonder-working arm in the prosperity our Order has achieved, and we would, in gratitude, recall to mind the blessings Thou hast vouchsafed to us. Whose hand but Thine has led us ? Whose power but Thine has sustained us ? Whose eye but Thine has watched over us? Thou, and Thou only, hast borne with our sins and imperfections. Thou, and Thou only hast shaped our ends and directed our steps, and hast made our once feeble few to be as a nation in numbers and potent for good. For what we are and have done of ourselves we pray Thee mercifully to forgive. For whatever we are of Thy favor, and have done with Thy guidance, we bless, and laud, and magnify Thy glorious name, and ascribe to Thee all the honor, and we humbly pray Thee that the same all-wise, omnip- otent power that has shielded and guided our Order in the past, may be our leader and defence in all the years to come. Divest our Order of everything contrary to Thy will ; prevent it from ever dishonoring Thy great name ; direct it in its efforts to bene- fit mankind ; make it successful in doing good ; mould it accord- ing to Thine own pleasure, and may the family of man be blessed by its ministrations, and thus Thy name be honored. Make us wise to see and faithful to improve our opportunities for doing good. May we havejetrength to obey Thee, and grace ever to honor Thee, and may the day soon come when all the nations, tongues and kindreds of the earth shall learn to do Thy will, and the whole family of man acknowledge Thee as their Lord, and be bound together in the ties of a universal brotherhood. Grant this, Lord, and whatever else Thou seest best for us, and let Thine be all the glory for ever and ever. Amen. [Here let the Oration be delivered, if a speaker has been provided ; or otherwise, let the N. G., or some other qualified brother deputized by him, read an ad- dress or the " Standard Tract."] 276 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ODE OUR FLAG. TUNE "My Maryland:' Fling wide our Banner! Land nor sea Boasts prouder gonfalon than ours : It points to higher destiny Than crowns the strife of mortal powers. Its field of white, its border bright, Its links denoting Union's might, It waves, an angel's wing, above, Proclaiming Friendship, Truth, and Love. CHORUS. Its field of white, its border bright, etc. Wave, Banner of the triple tie, In tranquil glory o'er the land: No dismal or ensanguined dye Shall mar the folds that here expand. It e'er shall share the brother's prayer, The Orphan rescue from despair ; A benison each wave shall fling, And many a widowed heart shall sing. CHORUS. May blessings ever on it rest, While heralding our Order's fame ; In every motion manifest The principles of good we claim. Whose beaming ray shall round it play Till merges in the night our day, And other generations prize The flag that greets our failing eyes. CHORUS. BENEDICTION BY THE CHAPLAIN. Now, unto Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with ex- ceeding joy, I commend you and the whole family of man ; and to Him, the only wise God, our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, now and forever. Amen. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 277 CEREMONY OR FORM FOR PRESENTING A BAN- NER TO A LODGE. THE brethren will assemble in the Lodge-room, (accompanied by ladies and gentlemen whom they may see proper to invite to be present on the occasion,) where the banner will be conspicuously placed. The officers will occupy their respective chairs, and the chairman of the presenting committee will address the N. G. as follows : Most Noble Grand: In accordance with a duty confided to me by my associates, I rise for the purpose of presenting to you, and through you to the Lodge, this Banner, which* has been contributed by a num- ber of our brethren, as a token of their esteem for the Order and for the Lodge over which you preside. There are some men yet living would that they were here to-night ! who assisted in planting the first scion of Odd-Fel- lowship in our soil ; who watched over its infancy, nursed its tender age, and struggled to keep it from destruction, at a peri- od when it seemed like hoping against hope to deem that it should be preserved. Verily, such as did so have their reward, when they look around and mark the fruit of their 'exertions when they see an institution, commenced with the humblest means, by persons few in numbers (and which a few years only since seemed like a candle flickering in the socket, glimmering and ready to expire), now numbering hundreds of thousands in its ranks, the very flower of the land, and dispensing its benev- olence in the amount of almost a million of dollars annually! Al- leviating distress, soothing the bed of sickness, watching over the pillow of pain, comforting the afflicted, and sympathizing with those who mourn these are the duties and the privileges of Odd-Fellowship ; and the consciousness that the institution pos- * Or, " which the Lodge has ordered and accepted." Or, ' which a few gener- ous friends [or, a generous friend] of the Order have [has] bestowed, as a mark 01 their [his] regard." 24 278 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. eesses wiihin itself all the resources for the competent discharge of its obligations, should be a reward sufficient even for those who nave toiled so long, so faithfully, and so successfully as they who first raised the banner of the three odd links in our Western world. Under this general Banner of the Order, we are proud to muster as Odd-Fellows; but we meet this night, sir, as individ- uals, to present to the Lodge a distinctive Banner, under which its members will assemble when occasion may require to show themselves to the public. Its broad folds are now unfurled be- fore us. Let us mark it well. [Here the speaker may advert to the designs or paintings of the banner.] Most Noble Grand : I now in the name and behalf of the do- nors [or of the Lodge], present to you, and through you to your successors in office, this beautiful Banner, and in receiving the proud flag, I entreat you and the brotherhood here to unfurl it to the world, and go forth among men, visiting the sick, reliev- ing the distressed, burying the dead, and educating the orphan : and long may it wave in such- triumph over your head, Heaven forbidding it should ever be polluted by unhallowed hands! The Noble-Grand will reply as follows: Mr. Chairman, and Brothers of the Committee : As presiding officer of this Lodge, and in behalf of my col leagues, the subordinate officers and brothers, I would express our heartfelt gratitude for this gift, bestowed on our Lodge ; and 1 beg to assure you that the remarks you have made, and the ex- hortation you have given, shall be carefully treasured up in our hearts, and transmitted to those who may be honored as our enccessors. I perceive, by the appropriate devices on the elegant ban- ner here presented to us and to our Lodge, that it has been the artist's study to exhibit to view some of the more prominent characteristics of our beloved Order. Brothers ! we honor the mind of him who designed, and the hand of him who executed these peculiarly beautiful and appropriate insignia; and I feel that I do but speak the universal sentiment of my Lodge when F say that they shall ever be engraven upon our hearts. We will remember the lessons here taught, and practise them with Jelight, at all times and on all occasions when a brother needs THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 279 our sympathy and aid. The links that, bind us shall never, nev- er be severed ; the chain shall be preserved pure, and bright, and unsullied, until the silver cord of life shall be snapped in twain, and our spirits take their flight to a land where Friendship, Love, and Truth, reign for ever, in all their purity and excel- lence. Be assured, brothers, that while these are our determinations, and this our practice, we shall in no case fail to regard your elo- quent and touching exhortations to keep in view that philanthrop- ic principle of our Order which teaches us to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan. Brothers ! you here behold this beautiful banner, now your property. Look on it, and treasure up in your minds the elo- quent ideas it speaks. Let them be deeply impressed on your hearts ; so that in your course through life, you shall, at all sea- eons and in all places, protect your brother Odd-Fellow while he sojourns in this troublesome world, and, when he is gone into another and better state, shield his widow and orphan babes in their hour of need. An address appropriate to the occasion may then be delivered, after which an ode may be sung, and an appropriate prayer by the Chaplain close the ceremo- nies. 280 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. FORMS FOR PROCESSIONS. IN all processions of the Order, the following forms must be observed : FORM 1. If by a Subordinate Lodge, members of the Patriarchal branch not participating, the procession must form as follows : Music. Marshal. Outside Guardian. (With drawn Sword.) Escort Banner Escort. Scene Supporters. Bearing White Wands. Initiatory Members. Two or four abreast. Members of the White, Pink, Royal Blue, Green, and Scarlet Degrees. According to Rank. Past Grands, in order of Juniority. The highest grade in the rear. Inside Guardian. (With drawn Sword.) Conductor. Chaplain. Warden. (Bearing his Wand.) (White Scarf.) (Bearing Axe.) Secretary Treasurer Secretary. Supporter. Vice-Grand. Supporter. (Bearing AVand of Office.) (With Gavel.) (Bearing Wand of Office.) Supporter. Noble-Grand. Supporter. (Bearing Wand of Office.) (With Gavel.) (Bearing Wand of Office.) FORM 2. If by a Subordinate Lodge, members of the Patriarchal branch participating, the procession shall form as follows : Music. Marshal. Outside Guardian. (AVith drawn Sword.) Escort Banner Escort. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 281 Scene Supporters. Bearing White Wands. Initiatory Members. Two or four abreast. Members of the White, Pink, Royal Blue, Green, and Scarlet Degrees. According to Eank. Members of the Scarlet Degree who have taken the Patri- archal Degrees. Past Grands. Not possessing the Patriarchal Degrees. Past Grands, who are members of the Patriarchal branch. Inside Guardian. (With drawn Sword.) Conductor. Chaplain. Warden. (Bearing his Wand.) (White Scarf.) (Bearing Axe.) Secretary Treasurer Secretary. Supporter. Vice-Grand. Supporter. (Bearing Wand of Office.) (With Gavel.) (Bearing Wand of Office.) Supporter. Noble-Grand. Supporter. (Bearing Wand of Office.) (With Gavel.) (Bearing Wand of Office.) FORM 3. If an Encampment turns out as an Encampment, it must form in the following order : Music. Marshal. Outside Sentinel. (With drawn Sword.) Members in order of Juniority. Two and four abreast. Past Officers in order of Juniority Inside Sentinel. (With drawn Sword.) Junior Warden and Guide. Scribe and Treasurer. Fourth Watch Senior Warden Third Watch. Guard of Tent. High-Priest. Guard of Tent. (With Spear.) (With Spear.) Second Watch Chief Patriarch First Watch. 24* 282 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. FORM 4. A Grand Lodge, when in procession, must be formed in the following order, and take position in the rear of the subordinate branch. Music. Grand Marshal. Escort Banner Escort. (Carried by the Grand Herald.) Grand Guardian. (With drawn Sword.) Members of the Grand Lodge. In order of Juniority. Appointive Past Grand Officers. According to Rank. Elective Past Grand Officers. According to Eank. Grand Secretary. Grand Treasurer. Grand Conductor. Grand Chaplain. Grand Warden. Sup. by a P.G.M. Dep. Grand Master. Sup. by a P.G.M. Sup. by a Gr. Eep. Grand Master. Sup. by a Gr. Eep. FORM 5. When a Grand Encampment is in procession it will take pre- cedence, and the Grand Marshal thereof will control the proces- sion, in which case he will be in front of the procession. Grand Marshal. Outside Sentinel. (With drawn Sword.) Members of the Grand Encampment. In order of Seniority. Appointive Past Grand Officers. According to Rank. Elective Past Grand Officers. According to Rank. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Scribe. Grand Treasurer. Past High-Priest. M.E.Gr. High-Priest. Past High-Priest (Bearing Crook.) (Bearing Crook.) Gr. Rep. M. W. Grand Patriarch. Gr. Rep. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 283 FORM 6. In case the Grand Encampment, Grand Lodge, and subordi- nates of both branches are in procession, the following will be the order: Subordinate Lodge. Subordinate Encampment. Grand Lodge. Grand Encampment. If there is no Grand Encampment, but a Subordinate Encamp- ment, the procession shall form as follows : Subordinate Lodge. Subordinate Encampment. Grand Lodge. If a Subordinate Lodge turns out with a Grand Lodge, they will form as follows : Subordinate Lodge. Grand Lodge. Brothers engaged in processions will wear regalia suitable to the Degrees to which they may have at- tained. When two or more Lodges or Encampments walk in procession, they form severally as above ; and the younger Lodge or Encampment should precede the elder. All officers in processions should wear the jewel of their office. Chaplains usually carry the Bible. The Marshals should walk on the left of the procession, near the heads of the divisions under' their charge. Lodges and Encampments inviting other Lodges or Encampments to unite in procession with them, should head the procession. 284 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. RULES For Subordinate Lodges, and D. D. G. Masters, in Corre spending willi the Grand Lodge, on Questions of Law and Usage. THE D. D. Grand-Master, as the Representative of the Grand-Master and Agent of a Grand Lodge, must correct all irregularities and illegalities of Lodges and their members within his district, and decide in wri- ting all questions of law and order properly presented to him for that purpose. All Lodges and members in his district may pre- sent any questions of law and usage which may actu- ally arise, to the D. D. Grand-Master for his decision. All questions of law or usage must be clearly stated in writing, with a statement of the circumstances under which they have arisen, and must be signed by the member, or officers of the Lodge, proposing the same. All questions thus proposed must be answered in writing, under seal of the D. D. Grand-Master, and signed by him. If any appeal from such decision is made by the Lodge or member, it must be accompanied by the decision appealed from, or a copy thereof, certified as correct under seal of the Lodge, and the reasons for the appeal, addressed to the Grand-Master. No communication from any member or subordinate Lodge, on questions of law and usage (except an ap- peal as aforesaid, or a formal complaint against the D. D. Grand-Master), should be received by the Grand- Lodge officers, unless the same comes under the seal and endorsement of a D. D. Grand-Master. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 285 The D. D. Grand-Master of each district must file all questions presented or arising for his decision, en dorsing thereon or filing therewith a copy of his decis- ion in each case. And he must also keep a record of each case and each decision in a book provided for that* purpose, together with a memorandum of each irregularity corrected by him. And he must affix to each item the number and name of the Lodge, or name and Lodge of the member thus corrected, with the date of such correction. Said book and papers to be con- sidered as the property of the office, and to be deliv- ered up to the Grand Lodge, or its agent, accord- ingly. At least once in every six months he must present said file of questions and decisions, or said books of records and minutes, to the Grand-Master, for review and correction or approval, or for reference to the Grand Lodge. A copy of all complaints or appeals by Lodges must be furnished to the D. D. Grand-Master com- plained of or appealed from, and time be allowed him for reply, before proceedings shall be instituted against him, or his decision be reversed; and all communica- tions on such decisions from the Grand Lodge to her subordinates, should be first communicated to the D. D. Grand-Master, and by him be made known to the Lodge. Any communication placed in the D. D. Grand- Master's hands for a member or subordinate Lodge, or for the Grand Lodge or its officers, should be by him forwarded as addressed, without any further delay than may be absolutely necessary to read the same, and certify to its genuineness if need be. 286 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Any D. D. Grand-Master, or other officer of a Grand Lodge, or any subordinate Lodge or member thereof, neglecting the duties or violating the obliga- tions imposed by these Rules, may be proceeded against as for the violation of any other duty, obligation, law, or usage, of the Order ; and on conviction thereof after fair trial, may be punished according to the heinousness of his offence, at the discretion of the triers having authority in the case.* APPLICATION FOR DEGREES. ANY brother in good standing, who shall have been. a member of the Order for the full period of blank, f may apply personally or otherwise, in open Lodge, for a certificate to entitle him to receive the Degrees of the Order. On application for the Degrees, the Lodge must be opened in the Degree applied for. In no case can the ballot be taken when the Lodge is open in the Initiatory Degree. Three black balls reject. In all cases the certificate must be directed to the Degree Lodge (if one is established in the district ) ; if not, to the Noble-Grand or Degree Master, whose duty it shall be to confer or cause them to be conferred * The above are the Rules of the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl- vania. They are such as may very properly apply to all Lodges and D. D. Grand-Masters : hence we have introduced them in the " Text-Book." f The time varies in the several States. ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 287 in proper form. In districts where there is no Degree Lodge, the Degrees may be conferred in the subordi- nate Lodges of the district respectively. The Lodge must be kept open for that purpose, and the Degrees conferred in the presence and with the assistance of the officers and members of the Lodge who may have received the Degrees about to be conferred, who alone are entitled to be present. The fees to be paid on receipt of the certificate must be regulated by the By-Laws of the several Lodges. In case the Degrees are not conferred by a Degree Lodge, the fee for conferring the Degree belongs to the Lodge granting the certificate. THE DEGREE OF REBEKAH. THE beautiful Degree of Rebekah has been aptly called "the crowning excellence of the Order." It was authorised by a decided vote at the session of the Grand Lodge of the United States, held in Sep- tember, 1851. It was suggested and originated by HON. SCHUYLER COLFAX, of South Bend, Indiana, by whom also it was written. The committee appointed by the Grand Sire to prepare it, were 288 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Reps. SCHUTLER COLFAX, of Indiana, WILLIAM T. MARTIN, of Mississippi, and E. G. STEEL, of Ten- nessee. The Degree went into operation on the 1st of January, 1852. There are. many excellent reasons for the Degree of Rebekah. Its author has given some of them in the following paragraphs : " 1. It will tend to increase the resources of subor- dinate Lodges, by the advance of members in the Degrees. It affords an additional incentive for brethren, and an additional argument for those allied to them, to induce them to progress upward in the Order. " 2. It will complete the present imperfect system in force in most of the jurisdictions, by which wives' and widows' cards are now authorized. By sec- tions 12, 13, and 14, of l Digest/ page 37, wives' and widows' cards can be granted to run for a year, and to be signed by the officers of the Lodge, and countersigned by the recipient on the margin. This is for the purpose of affording protection, in times of difficulty, to those who, by the theory of our Order, have a right to claim our friendly assistance. " 3. It will lessen and ultimately destroy the prejudice felt against the Order, by many of the fairer sex in various portions of the Union ; and which, undeniably, often tends to prevent accessions of members in subordinate Lodges. "4. It can be made to assist Odd-Fellowship in peculiar cases of brothers' sickness. In many such the kindly nursing of woman is needed far more than the assiduous and constant attendance of man ; THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 289 for she was formed to minister at the conch of affliction ; and in the watching which our laws so strictly provide for, we only strive to compel the observance of what is, in her, instinct the prompt- ings of nature, the impulse of the heart." The Degree of Rebekah may be conferred on all members of the Order in good standing who shall have received the Scarlet Degree, and on their wives. It is gratuitously bestowed on all qualified persons. There are in it, as in other Degrees of the Order, certain signs and passwords by which mem- bers may be recognized. A scarlet member duly qualified, desiring this degree to be conferred on his wife, must make application to the N. G. v.f his Lodge, who will call a special meeting for the pur- pose of conferring it. The meeting being convened, and the ladies present, in all cases accompanied by their husbands, the initiatory ceremonies will be performed by the N. G. and assistants At the close of the ceremonies, the ladies and their hus- bands will retire. No business whatever, excepting that of conferring, can be done in the Degree of Rebekah. The preliminaries must all be settled in the subordinate Lodge. We particularly make this statement, because an erroneous impression has prevailed that " women are to be introduced to the Lodges." The Degree of Rebekah is destined to become universally popular. It is deserving of such appreci- ation. The Friendship and confidence of Woman will do much to advance the interests of Odd-Fel- lowship. Her influence through this Degree, being 25 T 290 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. exerted on our members, will tend to make them faithful to their obligations and to their brethren. Woman does not shrink, as men often do, from the duties required of us towards the distressed. It has been beautifully said of her, "that she was earliest at the cross and latest at the sepulchre." In securing the friendship of Woman, therefore, and inspiring her confidence by instructing her in the true principles of the Order, we acquire advan- tages, both individually and collectively, that must not only elevate our character as Odd-Fellows, but which will also often procure for us, in sickness or distress, a consolation that shall be invaluable. Who would not desire such friendship as Woman can bestow in the time of trial ? Who like her can console in sickness who so charmingly encourage in trouble? Who has not experienced her gentle influence as mother, sister, wife ? It is no great compliment to her that we have at last, as Odd- Fellows, decided to take her into our confidence. It would have been better if we had done this long ago. Thousands have received the Degree of Rebekah, and they have given the Order no cause to regret that our temples have been opened for their admission. Many Lodges have been immensely benefited through their influence in inducing young men to unite them- selves with the Order. The natural regard of a mother for the welfare of her offspring has prompted the correct conclusion that the happiness of her sons will be more certain under the watchful supervision of an organization, some of the beauties of which she has herself seen, than it can be unguarded by such surroundings. Not only has she seen this m the case THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 291 of her sons, but in that of her daughters also has she been urgent that their future lives and happiness should be committed, when they leave her roof, to men pledged to the duties which Odd-Fellowship requires. Hence in numerous instances has her influence prevailed with the visitors of her family, as well as with its members. For seventeen years this Degree was merely tolerated by the Grand Lodge of the United States. Its benefi- cial effects on the Order led progressive men from va- rious sections of the country to labor for years for its establishment as a part of Odd-Fellowship ; but not till the Annual Communication of 1868 was there any legis- lation authorizing its organization as an auxiliary to the Order. At that session a special Committee reported the following resolutions, which were adopted, reserving to local Grand Lodges the right to accept or reject the Degree in their respective jurisdictions : Resolved, That the Grand Lodges subordinate to this R. W, Grand Lodge be and they are hereby authorized and empowered to institute Degree Lodges of the Daughters of Rebekah, at such places as they may deem proper within their territorial limits, to possess the powers and enjoy the privileges following: 1. To confer the Degree of Rebekah on such Scarlet Degree members and their wives as present a certificate from a Lodge located in the district designated in the charter of such Degree Lodge, and also to confer the said Degree on widows of Odd- Fellows presenting certificates from Lodges to which their hus- bands were members at the time of their decease. 2. To elect and appoint their own officers in the manner pre- scribed by their By-laws. All officers to hold their offices for six months or one year, as prescribed by the subordinate Grand Lodge. 3. To hold regular and special meetings as provided by the By-laws. 4. To fix and establish dues, to be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, as the By-laws may provide, and to provide by By-laws when those in arrears for dues shall be 292 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. dropped from the roll of members. Any brother or sister within the district designated in the charter may become a member on paying the dues provided by the By-laws ; and any brother may continue such member so long as he remains a member of his Subordinate Lodge in good standing, and pays his dues to the Degree Lodge, and any sister may remain a member so long as her husband is entitled to remain a member, or so long as she remains his widow and pays her dues to the Lodge. All Degree Lodges shall consist of at least ten members, five of each sex, and all in good standing shall participate in the proceedings of the Lodge. 6. To pay and disburse from the funds of the Lodge, for the relief of the sick, the destitute, or the distressed, from time to time, as a majority of the members present shall by vote deter- mine, or as shall be otherwise provided by the By-laws. 6. To establish such By-laws and Rules of Order, not incon- sistent herewith, or with the rules, usages, and general regula- tions of the Order, as they may deem proper, subject, however, to the approval of the Grand Lodge to which they are subordi- nates. Resolved, That the Grand-Sire, Deputy Grand-Sire, and Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary be authorized to insti- tute Degree Lodges of the Daughters of Rebekah in any territory under the immediate jurisdiction of this R. W. Grand Lodge, and that such Lodges possess the power and enjoy the privileges of other Rebekah Degree Lodges. Resolved, That the widow of an Odd-Fellow who had not attained the Scarlet Degree, but who was in good standing at the time of his death, may receive the Degree of Rebekah at the option of the Lodge of which her husband was a member at the time of his death. Resolved, That the Grand Corresponding and Recording Sec- retary be instructed to prepare, and 'cause to be printed, Cer- tificates of Membership for the Daughters of Rebekah, to be furnished to Lodges at not less than double the cost, and that the sum of $100 be appropriated for that purpose from any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. The following resolutions upon the subject were adopted by the Grand Lodge of the United States in 1877. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 293 Resolved, That hereafter the only qualification for office in a Lodge of the Degree of Rebekah shall be 1. Such member shall be an actual contributing member in good standing in such Lodge. 2. No member shall be eligible to the office of Noble Grand un- less previous service is shown in the office of Vice Grand in a Lodge of the Degree of Rebekah or Subordinate Lodge. Resolved, That the term P. W. of the Subordinate Lodge shall not be applicable to or used in a Lodge of the Degree of Rebekah, and the passwords of the Degree of Rebekah shall alone be used by both sexes therein, from and after the first day of January, 1878. Resolved, That all former legislation in conflict with the fore- going resolutions, is hereby repealed. NOTE. The Degree of Rebekah is an honorary degree, to be conferred, under the regulations adopted by the Grand Lodge of the United States, upon such Scarlet Members and their wives as may desire to receive it ; but the officers of all Lodges which are in possession of the work ought to be in regular posses- sion of the degree, upon the same principle that they are required to assume other obligations belonging to their official stations. The annual P. W. of the Degree of Rebekah must be given at the outer door, and the Lodge may sing any part of the Odes at the time that ladies are introduced by the Conductor. Widows (of brothers in good standing who may have deceas- ed after the adoption of the degree, September 20, 1851), if they still remain widows, may receive the degree in the Lodge of which their husbands were members, by the assent of the Lodge, and providing that other ladies with their husbands are also present for the purpose of initiation in the degree. Decisions of the G. L. of the U. S. at the Session of 1852. ADDRESSED TO THE LADIES. All good things do, or should, receive the counte- nance and support of the ladies. We, as Odd-Fel- lows, are bold to say, that we are clearly deserving o such consideration from the fair half of creation. 25* 294 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. It has been customary with some to apologize to the othei sex for their exclusion from our Order. We know not on what ground their exclusion can, by pos- sibility, be considered objectionable. We regard that sex too highly to palter with or to flatter it. We might indeed say, and say with somewhat of truth, that their very charms might be productive of disunion in the Lodge ; that concord and brotherly affection would vanish and give place to the ardor of love, the bitter- ness of rivalry, and the fantasies of violence and jeal- ousy ; and that the mild and sensitive nature of the sex, apt as it is to embrace and follow every good thing, needs not combination to strengthen its good impul- ses, or new incentives to impel it in the course of vir- tue and benevolence. While we disclaim all doubt of the prudence and retentiveness of woman, we might imagine many flattering reasons for their non-admis- sion ; but, in our humble judgment, apology is unne- cessary. The simple truth is this : woman is not enti- tled to, and seeks not, a place among us. Our Insti- tution was originally intended and framed exclusively for the men, and the various modifications it has un- dergone have not adapted it to the other sex. They could not with propriety, in conformity with the usa- ges of the world, take part in our private assemblages, without exposing themselves to the censoriousness of the age. Their peculiar tastes and duties alike unfit them for the transaction of matters which require ac- tion, and lie more properly within the province of their partners in life. We shall not argue at length the reasons why ladies may not become rnernbe*s of our association. For THE ODD-FELLOWS' T tf XT-BOOR. 295 we are persuaded that these are obvious to all who will take the pains to reflect upon the relative positions of men and women. While man is called upon to go forth into the world and fight its battles, woman's place is at the home-altar, as the high-priestess of that sacred spot; and her business one which she well under- stands is to cheer him in his rough journey, and to nerve him to proceed in it with faith and patience. Yet it can not be evaded, or denied, that Odd-Fel- lowship has been, and in some instances is yet, op- posed by our fair countrywomen. Why is this so ? Why should Woman, with her softness and kindness, her fidelity as a wife, her devotedness and love as a mother, her charity as a Christian, object to an Insti- tution which has been clearly proven of incalculable good to the human race ? Our homes for the blind, for the deaf and dumb, for the poor and destitute, and for the unfortunate creature of man's lust, have all been reared, and are sustained, under her fostering care and patronage : she has sfrewed chaplets of flow- ers in the patriot's path of glory ; her handiwork "floats on the banners of our Sunday-schools and temperance societies ; her influence and labor are enlisted in almost every enterprise of good that has blessed humanity : why, then, we ask, should she discountenance a society which has for its sole object the amelioration of man- kind? This question, we are convinced, may be answered in a very few words " It is a secret society for gen- tlemen only!" Here is the secret of woman's hostility to Odd-Fellowship : and on this subject we shall, therefore, beg to reason with her. In order to do so with some show of success, we can not do bettor than 29fi THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. to present the following, which was written by one of her own sex, and sent to us, years ago, for insertion in " The Rainbow," an Odd-Fellows' periodical which we edited in 1841 : " I propose, with your permission, to offer to the ladies a few plain and well-meant remarks upon this subject of secrecy, as many have formed erroneous opinions concerning it and your Institution. They think that there must be something wrong where there is so much secrecy ; and as I intend to show, in my few remarks, that female influence is sensibly felt in society, I particularly wish to undeceive them on this subject. In my own mind there is no doubt but the ridiculous assertions that are made against the Order are thrown out to mislead the uninformed, and preju- dice the public mind, by those who know nothing con- cerning the Institution. I have taken great interest to find out this ' grand secret,' as it is called, which, 1 believe, is only the mode of initiation, and the signs by which the members recognise one another. What they are I can not tell, only that they are calculated to make deep impressions on the minds of men. I choose rather that the ladies would trace the history of this In- stitution themselves. The principles of Odd-Fellow- ship are published to all the world, and may be known to others as well as by the members. I more particu- larly wish the married ladies to study them out, fof many are prejudiced against it, and, as a matter of course, think they are perfectly right in opposing their husbands. And many think, too, that, because woman is excluded, there is and must be a deep mystery attached to it. This is perfectly nonsensical. Why THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 297 is it that woman is excluded from the halls of legisla- tion, from political meetings, and from the noise and bustle of military pomp ? You answer, because it is altogether inconsistent with our feelings and station. So it is here. Woman must content herself to rule at home : she should view her home as her kingdom. If a woman were to go into the world if she were to mingle in the strifes of public life, and devote her time and attention to business concerns equally with the men in what condition would be our homes? It is for her to cultivate the opening intellect, and to en- etamp moral and religious impressions upon the mind, in the days of infancy and childhood, which will en- dure throughout life. It is a sister's privilege to watch over a younger brother, and gradually to lead him in the path of rectitude and duty ; to enforce upon the tender mind those very principles taught in the Lodg* 1 by precept and example Friendship, Love, and Truth. Then, when that brother arrives at the age of manhood, lie perhaps associates with those who in- fuse by practice those truths imbibed in childhood , and, however high he may ascend in riches, in rank, in honors however low he may sink in poverty and disgrace he can never forget the home of his youth. When the siren voice of Pleasure would fain tempt him aside, the voice of his sister or the counsels of his mother, whisper in his ear, ' Resist the tempter !' And is not this woman's province this her field of action this the scene of her highest usefulness? Why then does she aspire to that which is not consistent with the laws of nature and the will of her Creator ? Then let no opposition be shown to your partner in life ; rather rejoice that he associates with the good and 298 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. just, and sooner urge him to attend more regularly to his duty. If I understand anything of Odd-Fellow- ship, I believe its elementary features are Benevolence and Charity ; and if I am right in my opinion, these are indeed its noblest attributes. If such be the fact, should we, as ladies of sound sense and discernment, oppose it because it may appear to us mysterious? Nay ! We should rather exert ever} power we possess to befriend and advance a cause which, despite our objection, is one of the noblest ever devised by man. 1 have reasons for this assertion in the amount of hap- piness I have seen it confer upon several of my friends, and in the true moral excellence which I have observed among those of its members who appear to feel a deep interest in its welfare." Thus much did our lady-correspondent and friend remark concerning " Odd-Fellowship and the Ladies," and we sincerely commend her observations to those ladies who may have objected to our Order on the ground of its secrecy and exclusiveness. Odd-Fellowship, as we have shown in the pages of this work, is a Society founded in the purest philan- thropy. " It scatters its blessings, like the dews of heaven, alike upon the rich and the poor," the high and the low, the strong and the weak. WOMAN largely shares these blessings. Fond and devoted wife ! need we tell thee that this is a life of mixed good and evil ? that the storm and the whirlwind succeed the calm and the sunshine? that disappointment, bitter grief, and sad reverses, are the lot of mortals? He who lately led thee to the bridal altar may to-morrow be laid on the death-couch, and exchange his marriage- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 299 vesture for the winding-sheet and the shroud ! Wouldst thou desire the commiseration and sympathies of his brethren they who have pledged themselves, by an obligation " heard in heaven," to protect and comfort thee in thine hour of despair? Tender mother! as thou bendest with untiring watchfulness over thy fair child, and hushest to rest every murmur that may dis- turb the gentle slumber of thy loved one, remember that, if thy babe should never need the friendship of Odd-Fellows (Heaven only knows what is in the fu- ture !) there are "pale faces of little children" all around thee, who clasp no mother's knee, " the envied kiss to share ;" and for their sake, if not for that of thine own dear one, do not discourage Odd-Fellow- ship. Fond sister! if thou wouldst live more fondly in the friendship of thy brother if thou wouldst en- large thy enjoyments in his society, and, leaning upon him, feel a proud consciousness of his virtue and his worth, induce him to become acquainted with the spirit of Odd-Fellowship. Fair maiden ! thou who occa- sionally repressests the strong impulses of the heart, and quietests the promptings of love, to meditate in deep solicitude and anxiety upon the uncertainty of the future wouldst thou take for that future a strong and certain bond of indemnity, persuade the object of thy affection to embrace the cause of Friendship, Love, and Truth. From these, and a thousand other reflections, which we have neither space nor time to name, we entreat our fair readers that they will not discourage Odd- Fellowship, but that they will rather aid it by their smile and approval. We assure them that they are deeply interested in its welfare that it can cause their 300 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. no possible injury, but that it may procure them and theirs much real good. Their happiness is not the least object of its care. It will shed the sunlight of joy and consolation on the dark scenes of their lives cheer and sustain them in their hour of trial come, it may be, to their aid, when all other friends fail them ! TO THE UNINITIATED. THE experience of every considerate mind must teach the fleeting and transitory nature of worldly pos- sessions, and the uncertainty of health, which is to all the greatest earthly blessing that can be enjoyed, and the deprivation of which to the greater portion of mankind is the suspension of the necessary means of existence. The frugal ant, guided by a benevolent instinct of unerring Nature, improves the sunny hour to husband up its store ere the approach of barren, cheerless win- ter : and the impulse which here prompts this petty member of the brute creation to action in its own be- half is the same impulse which gave our Order birth ; brought by process of intellect to that admirable system which distinguishes the first of God's creation when exerted in a noble and righteous cause. The condition in which man finds himself placed on earth, as both an individual and a member of the social compact, is fully calculated to develop the finer features of his nature. He perceives that his own hap- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 301 piness depends upon the welfare of those to whom he is connected by the most inseparable ties ; his sensitive mind can not contemplate distress and misery without a shudder of pity and a desire to alleviate it ; and thus, from his own magnanimous nature, he becomes an ac- tive and willing agent in the cause of benevolence, friendship, and charity. But to dispense charity with a discriminate hand, to extend effectual relief to worthy objects, it is necessary that some systematic form of procedure be established for the purpose of rendering that relief mutual ; and we may here see the first grand principle of our Order. He who enters our ranks, subscribes to our regula- tions, pays his moiety for our support, becomes virtu- ally a shareholder, entitled to all its privileges and immunities, and in the dark hour of gloom and suffer- ing, the honest " grip" of a brother Odd-Fellow will warm his heart, soothe his weary, sleepless couch, and, unlike the fawning pretensions of too, too many sun- shine friends, yield him something more substantial than that poor consolation which words and professions alone can offer to the frame borne down with long suf- fering, rendered still more hideous by the too near approach of want. He who lawfully seeks relief from this source comes not in the shape of the humble alms-asking applicant, with cap in hand, to solicit the poor pittance which inconsiderate Plenty gives, and yet too often denies, to sorrow-stricken Poverty. Here is no compromising of that manly independence which is his proudest boast; his wants are anticipated, and he receives back with interest the bounty which he freely gave, ere Mis- fortune cast her murky shades around him. 26 302 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. But this is but a recapitulation of facts well known , and the question is, whether Odd-Fellowship, if car- ried out upon the principles which now identify it, will effect the grand object of its aim, to protect from the pangs of want those who enrol themselves upon its lists. The sum necessary to become a member is by no means large, when the privileges conferred are taken into consideration, together with the fact that it is called for in the hour of prosperity. A long array of facts and figures might be cited to prove that this Order will answer its intended object ; but the necessity of adducing such proofs as these is uncalled for, the experiment speaking for itself; nearly all the Lodges in this country being in a prosperous condition, ready and willing at all times to meet all just demands against them. The sentiment upon which our Institution depends most for support and existence is the sentiment of true brotherhood, that mutual principle which should prompt to lay aside all personal differences and sacrifice all party considerations for the benefit of the general weal. The effect of this dangerous spirit personal and party difference may be read upon nearly every page of the world's history. Institutions laid upon foundations more solid and enduring, perhaps, than our own, have felt its shivering force and gone down to oblivion, and live only upon their timeworn and worthless records. Nations standing high, rejoicing in an industrious pop- ulation, with all the appliances and means of endurance, have been struck from their high and splendid emi- nence, and become the " schoolboy's dream, the won- der of an hour !" This baneful spirit can never be productive of aught but evil, and every true Odd-Fel- THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 303 low is called upon, by the most emphatic and forcible considerations, to frown upon the approach of this insidious and destroying hydra. Where fellowship is the nerve, and amity and good-will the aim, Peace and Plenty sit like household gods upon our altar-places. This Institution, when considered in a moral point of view, may be pronounced one of the most splendid undertakings ever set on foot ; no spectacle so grand to the eye can be presented, as men coming volunta- rily forth to the relief of the distressed and suffering. Science, with unceasing energy, may soar beyond the visible diurnal sphere, and weigh with faultless balance innumerable suns and systems, and bring down to the ken of earthly vision newly-discovered worlds, to the great delight of the philosopher and scholar : but see the " friend of man" bending o'er the emaciated form of his brother, presenting to his fevered lips the cool- ing draught, and say which appears more benign, more Godlike ! The nature of our Institution, by its formation, is eminently calculated to inculcate feelings of liberality, to soothe all feelings of bigotry and prejudice. Here may be seen members of the most hostile sects and parties, forgetting for the time their peculiar tenets and predilections, and mingling together in fellowship and love. The world abounds with institutions founded with benevolent views ; but how many of them are estab- lished upon the narrow basis of party, or sect, or nation ! They indeed dispense aid to the sufferings of those of their own fraternity, but their rules prevent the admittance of all except those who are qualified by the circumstances of creed, nation, or profession. 304 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. No such qualification is here required ; the test neces- sary for admission into our Order is, a good reputa- tion and character for morality and honor ; it heeds not whether the man be a native of the Old or New World, Jew or Gentile, rich or poor : at his approach our portals open, he enters and becomes a brother. The tendency of Odd-Fellowship upon the minds and characters of its members, independent of the direct aid which it confers, is well calculated to de- velop those fine and social feelings which are the honor of our nature. It inculcates morality by the most, forcible, and I may say practicable lessons ; it teaches men the sweetness of friendship and affection, and renders every man more fit to fulfil his duties as the head of his own household and as a member of the community. Its expressive mottoes and axioms are most acceptable to the moral, the benevolent, and the charitable. By them, men are reminded of their duty toward their God, their families, and their neighbors. In the Lodge-room they listen to exhortations which must banish all evil and improper thoughts from their breasts, and render them good and peaceful members of society. Odd-Fellowship to young men is, indeed, a benefit. It may be called a powerful conservator of their mor- als, and morality is the great safeguard of health. The mi ids of the most pure und well-meaning will some- times go astray, sometimes turn aside from the plain avenue of virtue, to glean the flattering flowers that stand temptingly by the waysides, siren-like, to allure and destroy the infatuated votary. The world pre- sents too many seductive pleasures for the minds of all to withstand : for living instances of this kind, we THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 305 need not go far. Let any review the course of his own observation look around the circle of his own acquaintance and behold how many young men, full of promise and hope, with splendid intellect and ca- pacity, have lost their fair fame by some impetuous act, and become objects of loathing and pity ; how many, in the unguarded hour of conviviality, have raised the flowing goblet to their lips by way of healthy salutation to their friends, meaning no ill, and little dreaming of the sad fate that awaited them ! See many of them now! watch the eye, that once sparkled with healthy vision, flickering with a sickly and ghastly hue ambition, that load-star of youth, beaming no more for them all pride gone, all respect, all energy, and the weak frame tottering to the inebriate's prema- ture grave ! A sad spectacle ; yet such as all have witnessed. Fortune, too, has her votaries ; and the gaming-table displays its glittering heaps to those who would stake fame, honor, soul, family, and all, against the yellow earth, and, in the essay to win, lose all and seal their wretchedness through life. When we claim for our Order those qualities which tend to prevent these disastrous circumstances, we claim for it no more than its equitable due ; each Odd- Fellow being bound by the most sacred obligation to advise and counsel a brother, to notify him of danger, and to stand as a guardian of his morals, reputation, and health. The wide extent of our Order, and the immense addition that has been made to it within the last few years, evince that the prejudice with which secret societies were once received is now fast fleeing away; the effects of the existence of this Order have spoken 26* U 306 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOCK. in its behalf; and the general sentiment prevails, tha: men whose actions are guided by philanthropy and benevolence can not prove dangerous. In regard to the secrecy, which is the only possible objection to our Order, we have spoken of it in preceding pages of this work. The world has been favored with innumerable dissertations upon secret societies, and their real or supposed effect on the morals of the people ; and they have all come to one and the same conclusion, that they may be justifiable where secrecy is necessary. We know that we possess no more secrecy than is indispensable to our existence, and, accordingly, we feel little compunction at the mysterious nature of our Order. Every Odd-Fellow has sound views upon this theme. Ours is not that awful secrecy which would frown from our precincts all visiters, at all times, and impress silence, with a mysterious air, upon all who would inquire into our principles ; but we do and must possess certain signs and emblems that will make us known to each other, and protect us from the imposition of designing and unprincipled men. We rank among our fraternity many of the eminent men of the land eminent for intellect and capacity-- eminent for the purity and probity of their actions ; men who have given hostages to the world for the full performance of their duties ; and none can suppose that they, with a full knowledge of its nature, would remain connected with it if it were different from what it professes to be an institution, the object of which is to relieve the wants of its brethren. The violent politician finds neither place nor time within the Lodge to promulgate his peculiar views and THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 307 opinions ; the infatuated sectary finds here no respon- sive converts to his faith : here men must lay aside their predilections, and incite to the grand work of benevolence. America, from its peculiar physical nature, is highly favorable to the growth of institutions of a democratic and benevolent tendency. The tone of popular sen- timent is, generally speaking, liberal and considerate ; and anything proposed for the alleviation of human suffering, for the furtherance of the general good, in nearly all cases meets with encouragement and sup- port. Schools for the education of all classes now exist in profusion throughout the land ; asylums for the retirement of those who have become shattered and broken down by the storms of mental vicissitude may be seen in all sections of the country : and, when we consider that the most of these splendid charities are the fruits of voluntary subscription, we are justly proud of the land we live in ; we can not pronounce her name without feeling our hearts to overflow with grati- tude and joy. Here, upon the continent of young America, humanity has found a safe and hospitable shelter from the blighting effects of persecution. Here young, bright-eyed Liberty sought a refuge from her lawless ravishers, and found a welcome home and brave defenders. Here Friendship, Love, and Truth, the principles of Odd-Fellowship, have found a genial and healthy soil. Odd-Fellowship is genuine republicanism. We do not insinuate, by this, that it has anything to do in the political movements of the day : it has no business, nor does it desire to have, with the various parties in State politics that array themselves, in clamorous strife. 308 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. against each other. When we say that Odd-Fellow- ship is republicanism, we mean, that in the dispensation of its government, and the bestowment of its bounties and honors, the people, the members, bear the rule and share equal and undisputed rights. In reference to its organization and body politic, we may say with Sir William Jones : " What constitutes a state ? Not high-raised battlement or labored mound, Thick wall or moated gate ; Not cities proud, with spires and turrets crowned ; Not bays and broad-armed ports : No: men high-minded men With powers as far above, dull brutes endued, In forest, brake, or den, As beasts excel cold rocks and brambles rude ; Men, who their duties know, But know their rights, and, knowing, dare maintain, Prevent the long-aimed blow, And crush the tyrant while they rend the chain These constitute a state." It is the nature of our country and her laws to receive to her bosom the homeless exile, to protect him from political persecution. And it is our duty, as countrymen and as Odd-Fellows, to welcome our needy brethren from the lands beyond the sea, and to contribute our " mite" to the alleviation of their mis- ery. We shall still go on in our " labor of love," disseminating the principles that unite us as brothers, till the clouds of human suffering, which now shroud in gloom so many of our fellow-creatures, shall burst and roll away, before the approach of that sun which shall be hailed as the rnagic focus of brilliant radii, formed by the tokens and elegant emblems of our Order. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 309 ODD-FELLOWSHIP AND PATRIOTISM. OUR Order is no political association. We are taught, as Odd-Fellows, to be subservient to the " pow- ers that be," and to obey strictly the laws, yet we give no political pledges we are united by no political bond of union we aspire not to any political authority. We are bound by our obligations to perform all the duties which can be required of good citizens ; and a violation of any of these laws, if proven against a mem- ber of our Fraternity, will subject him to immediate expulsion from our Society. We do not profess to a love of country beyond that of other men : in our teach- ings we counsel and inculcate peace and deprecate war; but in defence of the honor or the rights of their native land, Odd-Fellows would not be the last to re- spond to her call. As a proof of this assertion, we might refer to the hundreds of our brothers who en- rolled themselves in the regiments of the volunteers in the Mexican war : and we might also say that, while the bones of many of them were left on the fields of battle in a foreign land, their names and virtues are yet green in our memory; and that, though on earth we shall never again grasp their hand in friendship, yet we confidently expect to meet them in the Odd- Fellows' home of glory ! 310 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ODD-FELLOWSHIP AND RELIGION. THIS Order is no religious association ; yel, " Do unto others as you would they should do unto you" is the fundamental basis on which the entire fabric of Odd-Fellowship reposes. It assumes no higher au- thority than the regulation of the moral action of its members, while it confides an elucidation of the sub- lime requisites of the Sacred Scriptures to the minis- ters of Religion. It demands no obligations which would in the slightest degree violate a man's duty to his God, his country, his neighbor, or his family. It exacts no perilous vows which would implicate his fealty to his spiritual persuasions ; for it comprehends and embraces men of every creed, sect, tenet, and reli- gious denomination. It repudiates infidelity, but it assumes not that prerogative which the Great Searcher of hearts has reserved to himself alone. " Judge not, that ye be not judged," is the rule of action to every member of this Fraternity. The depravity of man renders it expedient for means to be employed to lead him from the paths of vice to those of virtue : and this should be done by inculca- ting the divine precepts of the Bible. This is what we do. But, while we teach those precepts in a man- ner peculiar to ourselves, we do not war with the prin- ciples of any sect. Jew or Gentile, Catholic or Protest- ant, is, as such, welcome to our Lodges and our hearts. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 311 AN ADDRESS FOR THE USE OF ODD-FELLOWS. [WE have introduced this Address in the " TEXT-BOOK" for a specific purpose, as follows : It frequently occurs that Lodges, especially in remote rural districts, having occasion for some public demonstration, lack a " speaker," and are obliged to send for one a long way from home, at great expense. To obviate this necessity and cost, this Address may very prop- erly be used, by some brother of the Lodge, who could easily commit it to memory and deliver it. To the audience generally it will most likely be new, and therefore as interesting as some Addresses for which the Lodge might be required to pay fifty or a hundred dollars.] RESPECTED AUDITORS : We have assembled this evening to contemplate a subject on which, if we can not be of one heart and one mind, we can at least coolly examine its claims to public confidence and favor. The sacredness of this place, the aspect of this audience, the motives connected with the occasion that Das brought us here, and the unanimity of the friendly feeling which pervades community in reference to equal rights and freedom of speech, are earnests to us of a patient hearing and a candid judgment. Like Paul before King Agrippa, I may say : " I am happy, be- cause I shall answer for myself" this evening, touching the things connected with an Association now known far and wide by the unique appellation of " ODD-FEL- LOWSHIP." It is expected that one pretending to teach others will know something himself. He who lectures on astronomy or geology, is supposed to understand 312 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. something of the heavens and the earth, as an indis- pensable guaranty that his hearers may become ac- quainted with their sublime features and mysteries. Shunning a labored and extended introduction, I enter at once on the task assigned me this evening. I could have wished that this task had been assigned to abler hands : but " such as I have, give I unto thee." We shall, in the first place, ask what Odd-Fellow- ship is ? 2. What it has done and is now doing for the good of men? 3. Are there causes in the social, physical, and rela- tive condition of our race, for its operations? 4. By what means will it be crowned with success? The question, "What is Odd-Fellowship?" you have heard answered perhaps repeatedly ; peradven- ture you have answered it yourselves. If you will apply to a physician to ask what the nervous system is, and to a chemist to teach you the law of affinity and repulsion if you inquire of a Christian to know what Christianity is I ask no more, at present, than a few moments for an Odd-Fellow to tell what Odd-Fellow- ship is. Would you go to the writings of Hobbs, Rousseau, Voltaire, or Paine, to know the claims and influences of the Christian religion ? Then do not receive from Rumor's tongue her hasty verdict, nor the partial decisions of Prejudice. Odd-Fellowship is a philanthropic Institution. If there are secret cords which bind its members together, that have not been found out, and which would not be condemned if they were, yet one of its vital energies and of its foundation- pillars is Philanthropy. Men are here associated, for the purpose of doing good to their fellow-men. This THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 313 fnstitution recognises the fact which is written in Tear- ful emblems on the broad face of the creation, that mis- fortune, and misery, and death, are in the earth. Where we find men like ourselves, there we find the " pesti- lence that walketh in darkness and wasteth at noon- day." Where we find inhabitants, there too the sigh is uttered the tear-drop falls from Sorrow's cheek. Where the laughing and merry children meet and gam- bol on the green, or sport in the meadow ; where the song of the young villagers, and the clangor of busy life, and the rattling wheels of industry are heard, there too the widow utters her lamentation, and the helpless orphan cries in the bitterness of bereavement there are the pillows of death, and the fresh and new-dug graves. Odd-Fellowship was organized, not for the purpose of ridding the world of these pains and sor- rows not to reorganize the present state of things but to meliorate and soften the evils to which humanity is subject. It is an association of philanthropists, who, regarding all men as themselves, mortal, and subject to the miseries and reverses of the world, would unite their means and efforts to smooth the haggard features of Want, and soften the iron bands of Misfortune and Poverty. Philanthropy, in its high and broad sense, knows no favorites ; it goes to the prison-house, to the damp, dark cell, to the tattered cottage, to every place where humanity suffers, where the chains clank and " the iron eats into the soul ;" wherever there is mis- ery, its soft voice is heard like the rush of an angel's wing, and its hands apply the remedy and the antidote. Now if it be said that the philanthropy of Odd-Fellow- ship is a stinted and contracted one that it is confined to its own members the same objection may be urged 27 314 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. against other benevolent institutions, against Christi- anity itself, and the present order of society. The in- junction of the gospel, " Heaven's best gift to man," is, " Do good unto all men, especially unto the household of faith." Can we say that Christianity is not a system of philanthropy, because it prescribes especial and par- ticular beneficence to its advocates? The presenter ganization of the social community in which we live is such, from the ties of family and kindred consan- guinity, that if the most philanthropic man among us should see two children, one of them his own, about to be devoured by a ravenous beast, and he could save but one of them, he would preserve his own child and let the other perish. This would not vitiate his phi- lanthropy. It is no valid objection, then, against our Compact, that it gives a preference as regards its bene- factions to its members. It will be remembered, too, that the members of every Lodge have claims that are not of universal application. They have contributed their earnings into the funds ; their money is there ; and they should be entitled, by a claim superior to others', to draw it out from these funds when the day of adversity comes. But I remark again, Odd-Fellowship is a domesti- cating Institution. I mean by this, that it unites indi- viduals together as a family or household, in which there is a mutual and reciprocal feeling of kindness and brotherly love. Do we not all know the influences, and associations, and endearments, that cluster around the almost magic words, " home, sweet home" ? The venturous youth on the high mountain-wave thinks of his home. The kind mother has there smoothed his sick-pillow, and eased his aching head, and felt proud THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 315 of her bonny boy as he conned his lessons and chased the gossamer butterfly across the flowery meadows. Often when the tempests threaten and the thunders roll, she sleeps not till her prayer ascends for her sailor-boy to Him who " rides upon the wings of the wind" who commands, and the lightnings cease. Yea, there is a kind of charm that goes with us all our life long, that " grows with our growth and strengthens with our strengths," that cornes up in its thrilling and bewitching revery, when we think of our home. The parent was there ; he laid the foundation-stone in the temple of our glory : there we were learned the sweet music of love there we revelled in the delights of the purest affection of earth. There we were taught the best of all governments, the government of our- selves. There the brother smiled in joy when we were happy, and the sister and the mother wept when we were sad. Similar to this is the social Compact of which we are speaking : it recognises the duty and office of father, brother, and friend. Like the children that gather around the domestic hearth of one father bound together by the bonds of fraternal love so Odd-Fellows, if they are true to their principles and obligations, make their Lodge a peaceful and desirable home a home in which "Reflection, reason, still the ties improve At once extend the interest and the love ; And still new deeds, new helps, new habits, rise, That graft benevolence on charities." It will be said that there are individuals in the Order who are strangers, in both heart and conduct, to prin- ciples of this fraternal character. We pretend not to 316 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. deny this, as humiliating as the concession may appear. But do not charge this Institution with moulding and forming the character of such men ; do not say the genial and legitimate tendency of the Association is demoralizing. This would be to say that Christianity betrayed its own Founder with a kiss, and by its influ- ence led Peter to curse and to swear. This would be saying that there is no true religion that it is not founded on charity because men have put it on as a cloak to rob and destroy. It would be saying that the whole system of medicine is a phantom or a farce, be- cause some arrant quacks have attempted to use the pill-box and the lancet. - We say, then, Odd-Fellow- ship is of a domestic nature. Its members find ties of friendship and cords of love strong and endearing as those that unite the inmates of a well-regulated and happy family. He who once enters this family circle will find the principle developed which was exhibited by one of old : " Let there be no strife, 1 pray thee, between us, for we are brethren." Once more, I observe, this is an Institution of mu- tual relief. The members deposite in the treasury of their Lodge a weekly and monthly due, which in the sunny days of health and prosperity they can easily spare, and which returns to them with seven-fold bles- sings when disease has prostrated them on a bed of sickness. What industrious mechanic can not lay aside four or five dollars a year from his earnings, to go into the funds of his Society? This small sum may be saved in the retrenchment of some of his luxu- ries, perhaps ; or a hat, a coat, a pair of boots, a party less costly than usual by a dollar, will afford the re- quired sum. This yearly amount comes back to a THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 317 member for every week that he may be sick, or inca- pacitated from attending to his usual business. This we regard as one of the best features in the Institution. It is one that should commend itself to every lover of humanity and benevolence the relief of the sick. This voluntary and benign principle manifests itself in deeds of charity and benevolence ; in its exercise the lonely orphan finds a benefactor, the widowed heart is cheered, and the sick-room, the cold and fireless hearth, break forth into thanksgiving and praise. Mu- tual relief! it is this that starts our courageous firemen at midnight from their peaceful slumbers, and, at the clangor of bells and the cry of fire, carries them amid darkness and the storm to the scene of devastation. Now they mount the flaming pile and in the gather- ing clouds of smoke and the crashing ruin, their motto is, " To the rescue ! on, to relief to the salvation of life from the jaws of menacing Death to the preser- vation of property from the devouring flames!" Let one of these guardians of our property perish amid the raging element and the tottering walls, and his memory deserves as conspicuous a place on the bright escutch- eon of fame and glory as he who fell under the walls of Quebec, or those who bled at Lexington and Bun- ker Hill. He flew to the relief of his friends, his fel- low-citizens, and died a martyr in the glorious cause of benevolence, in relieving humanity and driving back the swelling tide of human woe. The young and the old shall cherish his memory with gratitude, and a God of compassion and benevolence will not forsake his widow and orphans. Look, too, at the Temperance cause : it professes to be based on the principle before us. "Mutual relief!" is the watchword; the stern 27* 318 TTTE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOCK. voice of war is hushed, and the soft melody of kind ness and good will is whispered in the ear of the drunkard, and he begins to feel that he is a man, in- stead of a beast that instead of being friendless, for- saken, and alone, the common mark for the contemptu- ous and the scornful lip, he is regarded as within the reach of reformation, and it has been found out that there is yet one spark in his moral nature which can be kindled into life and light by kindness and the prin- ciple of mutual relief. What the thunders and the lightnings of threats and proscription could not do, the balmy and tender influence of goodness and love has overcome, as everlasting hills of ice melt away before the noonday sun. " Odd-Fellowship" is but another name for this very principle, mutual relief a combi- nation of powers and means, the accumulation of a fund to draw from, when we need the comforts and sympathies of friends. It is no more true that the stockholder can claim his share of the profits of a bank, than it is that the members of this Society have a claim to, and that they receive, the moneys deposited in its treasury. Do you ask, then, why we stand up to plead its cause ? why men are thus associated in this Institution, and what the nature of the Compact is ? I answer : It is a Society organized for the relief of its members. When the paralyzing hand of Disease has laid me on a couch of suffering ; when the silver cord is loosing, and the golden bowl is breaking; when, helpless and low, I am breathing out my life then will this Society shed its blessings around me, watch with me, and soften the tedious dreariness of my sick-couch. When Affec- tion's hallowed tears shall embalm my ashes, and " the THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 319 clods of the valley shall be sweet unto me" when it shall ho said of me, " Life's fitful fever over, he sleeps well" then do I trust tnat my brother-members of this Association will carry out one of the prominent objects of this Order, "visit the fatherless children, and be the protector of tne widow." Let me, then, cling to its altars ; let me speak in its behalf; let me see its banners unfurled in every land ; let me hear its voice echoed from the valley to the mountain-top ; let its principles, " Friendship, Love, and Truth," like Jupiter's golden chain, draw the earth into one great brotherhood, till not a cry of the orphan comes up from the cheerless hearthstone unheard ; till not a tear starts from the widow's eye unseen and unpitied ; till Charity, Philanthropy, and Mutual Relief, shall have made more, and wider, and farther-reaching conquests, than glittering spears, or gilded crescent, and waving plume ; till it shall be said of this crazy, selfish world 41 Here Love his golden shafts employs, here lights His constant lamp, and waves his purple wings : Here reigns and revels." But I am dwelling too long on this part of my sub- ject. I pass to the second query : What has Odd- Fellowship done, and what is it now doing? We speak, firstly, of its rapid and unprecedented increase. About thirty-two years ago, five persons in the city of Baltimore met in a small upper room, like the primitive Christians, and there laid the corner-stone of Odd-Fellowship on this side of the Atlantic ? They were viewed, of course, with the Argus-eye of suspi- cion. Rumor and Jealousy, which look on almost everything of this kind through false mediums, im- pugned their motives, and regarded this Compact, 320 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. small as it was, a cabal of darkness a secret horde of Fellows indeed, combined to set at naught the principles of religion and virtue, ana to entrap the simple in the snares of wickedness. But what is it now? From this small beginning, a mighty tree has put forth its far-reaching branches, which overshadow the land ; the Potomac of Maryland and the St. Croix of Maine "shout to each other." Every city, town, and hamlet, unfurls its banners and resounds with the knock of its gavil. Let it increase in the same ratio another ten years, and the man who leaves the granite- hills of the Old Bay State, to see the setting sun gild- ing the Rocky mountains, may stop every night of his journey at a regular meeting of Odd-Fellows. There are under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States 48 Grand Lodges, 39 Grand En- campments, 6,678 Subordinate Lodges, 1,806 Subor- dinate Encampments, and 543,910 contributing mem- bers. According to the official data of the year 1876, $4,462,019.41 were paid into the funds of those Lodges and Encampments, and the amount paid out, during the same period, to sick brothers, for funeral ex- penses, &c., was $1,684,800.57. I leave it to your own candor and magnanimity to decide whether the dis- bursement of one and a half million of dollars for one year, under the direction of a chosen and judicious " Relief Committee," as it is called, has done any good. Iain willing to allow this audience to be the tribunal, to decide whether four or five dollars paid to a brother for every week in which he lay sick, and, in case of death, thirty dollars for his funeral expenses to his widow, have done any good. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 321 Yet this has been done again and again, and is now being done in all parts of the land. I say nothing of the visits, and attentions, and sympathies of the brothers ; let these speak for themselves. To those, then, who have united their zeal and energies to organize a Lodge in this place, and have invited this audience here this evening, let me say, you have great encouragement ; the harvest is already white and ripe, and you may thrust in the sickle. See what has arisen from the union of only five men, and that at a time when they were alone ; no kindred and encouraging voice was spoken in their ear from the world around them. It would have been madness for them to expect to see such a meeting as this, of ladies and gentlemen sufficiently interested in their cause to listen to an exposition of its merits. But young men and maidens, and the man of gray hairs, have come up here to-night to hear us of this matter. You have a number of brothers around you to cheer you on, to give you the warm grasp of an Odd-Fellow's hand, and to tell you, " On, on ! my brethren, for you carry more than ' Cesar and his fortunes.' " Do you ask, then, what Odd-Fellowship has done? I answer: It has gone to the bed-side of the sick and the dying ; it has carried the means of procuring bread to famishing children ; it has followed the dead to their last and long home ; it is extracting from the cup of misery its bitterness, laying plans for the relief of the distressed, rolling back the tide of human woe, and making. men feel the truth, " All ye are brethren." Again, I remark, Odd-Fellowship encourages liberal principles. By this I mean it has no sympathy with the rigid and austere feelings of the age in which the V 322 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. heretic burned, and freedom of thought and opinion was deemed dangerous to the state. A man with us may believe what his conscience and his convictions of the truth dictate. Our only care is to know whether he is an honest man ; whether he have that moral dis- position and affinity of character to the principles of our Order that make him love the names Benevolence. Fidelity, Charity, Friendship, Truth. If none of these virtues constitute a leading feature in his charac- ter, he may have the faith which removes mountains he can be no ornament or aid to the Institution. We adopt the language of the Indian chief, called " Red Jacket," to a missionary : " We never quarrel about our religion." Hence, those sectarian and party views which have too frequently been the source of discord and bitterness in the world are avoided in this Institu- tion. One may say, " I am of Paul, and another of Cephas, or Apollos :" we are all one in brotherly love. None are admitted into the Order because they have a very great faith, none expelled because their faith is too narrow. If it is liberality to allow one to enjoy unmolested his own opinions in religious matters, then Odd-Fellows are liberal. All sects and names unite here in the building of one temple, whose pillars stand on the everlasting foundation " Peace on earth and good-will to men." From lowest place where virtuous things proceed, The place is dignified by the doer's deed ; Where great additions swell, and virtue r.ona, It is a dropsied honor ; good alone Is good, without a name ; vileness is so; The property by what it is should go, Not by the title." THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 323 We have an "odd" name; but if the principle of the Compact is good if it has done any good the name is of but little consequence. Pure water is water still, whether it come from a goblet of double- refined gold, or flow from the jawbone that slaked the thirst of Samson. But the question will be asked, if you mean well and are doing well, why do you have secrets and talk to us about mysteries? Have you not wished most ardently, when the beggar has asked you for the boon of charity, that you knew whether or not he was a real object of charity? When he has told you his tale of woe, his shipwreck and losses, or showed you his scars of wounds alleged to be the marks of patriotic and honorable battle, have you not heartily wished that there was some secret or hidden mode to know whether he was an impostor or not? Yet this is all the use that we have for our secrets. Many of our brethren come from a distance, and solicit the aid of our Institution. How should we know them, unless there were signs and tokens pecu- liar to the Order? We should be the constant dupes of imposture, and the prey of deception and fraud. The whole secret of our secrets, then, is this : to pre- vent imposition and to know each other. If we are to be condemned for such secrets, then you may con- demn the faithful sentinel at his vigils, who allows no man to pass into the camp without the " countersign." In the third place we were to inquire whether there are causes in the social, physical, and relative condition of our race for the action of such a society. This is so almost self-evident and indisputable that we need not stop long to discuss it. Man, to-day, is nerved with the sinews of health, and he wields the clanking 324 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. hammer and the sounding mallet, as a blithesome child does his rattle ; to-morrow, the feverish brow, and the faltering voice, and the pallid cheek, are the certain index of the inspired truth, " We all do fade as a leaf." A cessation from toil and the usual receipts of labor, a prostrated, sinking frame, and the forebodings of poverty and dissolution, come not over the soul of the young and single, perhaps, with that thrilling power which they strike into the heart of the husband and the father. If nothing has been laid up for this evil day (which is quite common), but a few suns roll over the sick man's bed, a few sleepless nights t re passed, and squalid Want and Destitution enter the late joyous and happy abode. Must the children be sent out to beg from the charities of a cold and selfish world ? This would break the father's heart, already wrung with anguish and sinking in despair. Shall they be sent to the poorhouse ? The man of a generous and noble spirit, whose industry and good name have yielded himself and family a competence, can not bear the thought. Rather would he see the last tool in his chest bartered for bread, and all the furniture of his dwelling, except his sick-couch, sold at a sacrifice, than come to this. Yea, there will be suffering pinching, bitter suffering in such a family, before the man will confess that it is so. His brothers of this Institution, if he is a member, are bound to carry to him his weekly due ; and, although it may be insuf- ficient to meet all the wants of the distressed house- hold, it must do some good. We all know that sick- ness and pain are among us, and call for the benevo- lent heart and hand to soothe the sufferer ; there are lears which ask our sympathies ; there are lonely THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 325 hearthstones, and abodes of misery, that invite the humane to "feel for others' woe;" in the narrow gar- ret and the damp cellar, among all classes of ages and callings, there are appeals, and beckoning hands, an prayerful voices, for the exercise of brotherly kind- ness, the operations of a deep, and generous, and pure benevolence. The reasons for the organization of such an Institution as Odd-Fellowship, therefore, are found in the present condition of society, in the uni- versal liability to want, and poverty, and wretched- ness. It is not all poetry, that " man was made to mourn ;" the dark drapery of sorrow hangs over the earth ; there is weeping in the land ; trembling age is stealing on ; misfortune may come to all ; our fathers' graves are green ; and the orphan, with outstretched hands and moving lamentations, calls for our aid. These, in brief, are the motives that laid the first stone in the rising temple of this Order. To relieve the distressed, to soften the hard features of poverty, to be a father to the fatherless, and the benefactor of the widow, constitute the very elements of this Association. Some sages predict that this Society of Odd-Fellow- ship will soon run its career of glory, and sink in darkness, to rise no more. It may be so. If it is not founded in truth, supported and sustained by the prin- ciples of Friendship, and Charity, and Benevolence, it ought to fall. As much as I esteem it, at this mo- ment as firm as my faith is in the purity of its prin- ciples and as positive as our knowledge is that it has done deeds of Love, I say, if the gallant ship changes her streamer, on which Justice floats, for the pirate's flag, let her sink ! If the principles of this Institution are ever prostituted to griping Avarice. 326 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. grovelling Injustice, and deeds of Hood if it shall cease to hush the orphan's plaintive wail, aid the sick, bury the dead, and soothe the widowed heart may it go down to the Plutonic realms of silence, and no trumpet-tongue ever sound its resurrection ! We are now to consider our fourth inquiry : By what means shall this Institution be crowned with success? We have seen, already, that it has been successful in the increase of its numbers, in disseminating liberal views and feelings, and in alleviating, in various in- stances, the pains and sorrows of our fellow-men. What will prevent its cords from being broken, and its stakes from being removed ? What are the great conservative principles and measures, which, put into efficient action, will make us to say, as the immortal Adams is supposed to have said on the Congress-floor of " '76" : " WE shall not fail ! We shall make this a glorious, an immortal day. When we are in our graves, our children will honor it. They will cele- brate it with thanksgiving, with festivity, with bonfires and illuminations. They will shed tears, copious, gushing tears not of subjection and slavery, not of agony and distress, but of exultation, of gratitude, and of joy.'' This patriot, and coadjutor in framing our national independence, had no more of the spirit of ancient prophecy than you or I have. But he saw around him a band of heroes men, independent men who knew their rights, and dared assert and maintain them ; who had pledged " their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor," to do this. He knew the blood of these men would course in the veins of freemen, as it does this day, and that their successors THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 327 would guard, as the cherubim with his flaming sword, that " Declaration." Similar measures and means to those which have preserved and perpetuated our liber- ties and national independence, will also carry down the stream of time, unscathed and unharmed, the " In- dependent Order of Odd-Fellows." I do not mean that we shall buckle on the helmet and grasp the sword that you shall see our ranks bristling with martial steel, and the war-horse prancing in blood, and the clouds gathering from the battle-smoke. No : the Founder of that Institution, which teaches us to become as a little child, said to his followers : " Put up the sword : my kingdom is not of this world, else would my servants fight." One of the means connected with the prosperity and ultimate glory of this Society, is perseverance. If that system of morality and truth which came from Heaven to reconcile and save humanity had its viru- lent opposers, and demanded the ardent courage and untiring perseverance of its advocates; if the declara- tion of our independence has cost treasure, and the strong-nerved energies of intrepid heroism and firm- ness, to insure its success, we need not presume that our path to glory and triumph is strewed with naught but flowers and beds of ease. Our Institution would be an "odd" one indeed, if it should grow and flourish with no opposition no culturing, pruning hand no persevering toil. As well may we expect to see breathing locomotives flying on our railroads, that made themselves, or hear the buzzing wheels of manufacto- ries which the magic wand of some idle conjurer has called into existence. The hills and mountains have mouldered away ; even the deep-bedded rock has 328 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. opened a pathway for steam, and commerce, and breathing life. Cities which were, some time ago, so far distant from each other that a long and tedious journey lay between, present only the obstacle of a short morning's ride ; and even the remote shores of the Pacific ocean have already become the journey of a few days. What has been done and what is yet to do, are signalized by perseverance ; the execution of proper, judicious measures in reference to the proposed and desired end. It must be so in the formation, united action, and future success, of the Societies belonging to this Order. Public sentiment and unfavorable opinions, which are honestly, no doubt, indulged, in regard to the Institution, will assume a milder aspect, as our perseverance in well-doing is manifested and felt. The relief of one brother, the cheering aid car- ried to one sad home, the guidance of one orphan from the dark valley of despair to the road of light and joy, shall " Live, gratefully registered upon our tombs, And, spite of cormorant-devouring time, Shall make us heirs of all eternity." Again, I remark, the exercise of benevolence will lead us on to ultimate and lasting success. I thus judge from the developments of the past, from the in- trinsic quality of this virtue itself, and from the signs of the present times. Would you know what Benevo- lence is? See it blending its colors and beauties in the rainbow ; descending in gentle showers from the fleecy clouds ; standing in pearly drops on the crimson rose ; beaming in the soft, mellow light of morning. Hear it in songs of praise in the woodlands and on THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 329 the hills, in the grassy meadows and beside the run- ning stream. Behold it and admire, in One who, while expiring amid the scoffs of his murderers, made a prayer that calls forth the inspired exclamation, " Hear, O ye heavens, and give ear, O ye earth !" Behold it in a Howard traversing the desert, enduring heat and cold, now laboring up the mountain, now ranging the valley, now in the noisome dungeon and the dismal prison-house, that he may do good to his fellow-men. " The spirits of the good, who bend from high Wide o'er these earthly scenes their gentle eye, When first arrayed in Virtue's purest robe, They saw her Howard traversing the globe, Mistook a mortal for an angel-guest, And asked what seraph-foot the earth imprest." Benevolence, good will, is one of the elements of our happiness. If we can make beds of roses for the sick and sorrowful, their sweetest perfume returns back to ourselves. Like the melodious and touching strains of music that come from the hand of a master which rejoice the hearer and the performer, so deeds of benevolence bless the one who does them. To this principle we look as one of the enduring features in our stability and success. Let us cling to this with an unyielding tenacity ; bind it about our frontlets ; let its spirit reign in our councils, and in our intercourse with the world ; and the ruinous despoilers, Discord and Anarchy, which have overturned empires, and dis- solved strong compacts, can not harm us. The laws of Lycurgus and Draco have sunk down into the tur- bid regions of the past, to be revived no more : they lacked bonevolence. Even Solon's more democratir 28* 330 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. institutions are long ago superseded by a greater and still greater manifestation of benevolence. The time is past in which men are so engrossed in the carnage of war, as to say, like one of old who saw his only son fall in battle : " Let me think now of nothing but vic- tory ; I will mourn to-morrow !" There is a broader and more expansive benevolence among us. The Spartan mother no longer gashes the flesh of her own children, to accustom them to the tortures and pains of bloody warfare, nor are our women made the de- graded slaves of a tyrant to till the ground with Helots. And while the overwhelming conquests of an Alexan- der and the daring exploits of a Hannibal may live in story as the " strange work" of dark and iron ages ; while the footsteps of Napoleon, dripping in the warm blood of humanity, may be traced by the pen of the historian from Marengo to Waterloo and here, to them, is "end of all perfection" the benevolence of WASHINGTON will be honored and practised, while the needle points to the pole, and the waters seek the great deep. This is so essential an attribute of every system and institution which has withstood the revul sions and changes of time, that we regard the Society of Odd-Fellows as destined to stand or fall according to its adherence or rejection of the principle. Benev- olence will stamp it with the seal of immortality; it will wreathe around its altars chaplets of imperishable glory ; and give it a name, a standing, and a durability, which will last till the ponderous earth itself shall dis- solve, and " Time and Nature die." [That this So- ciety is now carrying out this principle, one single fact which I know, and of which I was an eye-witness, *s submitted to your judgment. I visited a sick brother THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 331 n few weeks since, who in all probability is nigh unto death Nature has long been grappling with the in- sidious disease. It was a retired room in a remote part of the dense, busy city. There, prostrate and helpless as an infant he lay, with his wife and little ones around him. Every night, two brothers from his Lodge are there to watch away its dreary sadness, and give the dying man all the solace that sympathy and kindness can give one in his condition. If the appro- priation of five dollars a week, and the constant atten- tions of brotherly love, are of any value, they are so at a time like this. Should this brother never arise from that bed of pain and languishing, the sum of thirty dollars will be paid by the Lodge to his widow, and his brethren will follow his remains to the grave. This is but a single case among hundreds : this is our be- nevolence.] [In bringing my remarks to a close, I would con- gratulate my brothers in this place that they are aroused to spirited action to build for themselves a temple of Benevolence. May success attend these efforts. Let the fair temple be crowned with the garlnnds of affec- tion ; let its foundation-stone be laid on that Truth which, though " crushed to earth, shall rise again ;" let every timber be laid in Benevolence, and joined together strongly compact by Friendship and Love. Let the insignia of this Order here be displayed in its emblematic colors, and its tinselled drapery cover many a warm heart that is throbbing in unison with its fellow? in the cause of mutual relief, the melioration of suffer- ing humanity the cause of the widow and orphan.]* * The parts in brackets, if inappropriate, are not to be used 332 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Brethren, the voice "Persevere!" is wafted to you on the wings of the southern breeze ; it comes rushing along the winding rivers from the north ; it is trum- peted on locomotive and paddling wheels from the east ; and the broad Atlantic shall not keep back its sound from the Emerald isle and the sea-girt home of Victoria. Meet in harmony ; act with prudence and justice ; keep before you, as the tempest-tossed sea- man does his compass, " Friendship, Love, and Truth" "visit the sick, bury the dead, and educate the or- phan." To this assembly, who have given me their respect- ful and paiient audience, I say, I heartily thank you. We are proud of our Lodge, and shall do our duty as Odd-Fellows. We shall pour ihe oil of consolation into bruised hearts, and smooth the grave of the dead. We will pay no less taxes into your treasury, be no less devout in your churches ; we must, if we are true to our principles, be more benevolent, more charitable, and better men, than before. Ours is an addition to your benevolent institutions, which, although she may be somewhat "odd" in name, and to some have on the veil of the nun, yet in her hand she holds the " box of precious ointment ;" the good Samaritan has thrown upon her his mantle. No helmet, cleft with battle-axe, and bloody girdle wrenched from the fallen warrior, are her trophies ; " she stoops to conquer," but her power is Love, and her victories are the triumphs of Charity over Hatred, Good Will over Malice, Beneficence over Pain and Death. Give her, then, a seat at your " feast of charity ;" welcome her as a co-worker in alleviating the miseries of the world, and in diffusing those principles which " the inaudible THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 333 and noiseless foot of Time" can not efface, and which will outlive the " everlasting mountains" and the " per- petual hills !" Far in the distance I see the conquests of this Order a mighty band that no man can num- ber, from the four winds of heaven they come ; their banners float in the sunlight that gilds the eastern hills, and wave in the breezes that kiss the Rocky mount- ains. The lion has lain down with the kid, the wolf and the falling together, and a little child is leading the leopard. Thousands of voices come, like the song of angels, singing in strains as gentle as the song of Bethlehem : " Friendship has won her laurels ; Love has subdued the world ; Truth is mighty, and has prevailed !" 334 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ODES FOR SEVERAL IMPORTANT OCCASIONS. ,Tenor. 3=^ THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEMPLE. May be used at the "laying of a corner-stone." Music by Th. Elmer Smith. -E ' F W m 1. All hail the glorious work of love Aus - pi-cious-ly be- gun! Air. t 2. And cher-ub back to ser-aph call To leave his shin.ing throne, it=|_| . . [^.-i^-pzqqg-ifl ^l-^^t^i^EBgffl The angels from their homes above Will gaze with gladness down ; And smil-ing from the crystal wall, Will bless our cor-ner - stone. ^^H -*-*- 3. Tnat stone whose mural strength shall bear A temple broad and high, Where Love shall wave his banner fair And Truth and Friendship vie, 4. To smooth the rugged path of life, To fright disease away, To guard from want, and wrong, and And sorrow's pain allay. [strife, 5. A temple where no narrow creed Protects a chosen few ; It holds alike deserved meed To Christian, Turk, or Jew. Would that its walls could bo as wide As yonder ether blue, That Adam's race might all abido In Love and Friendship true ! Then hail the noblest work of Love ! Old tyrannies shall fall ; The vulture nestle with the dove, When o'er this earthly ball The peaceful temples of the ODP Shall stand like cedars tall When man shall live the laws of God, And Love be all in all 1 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 335 ANNIVERSARY ODE. For Celebrations of Lodges, or Dedications of Odd-Fellows' Halls. E1er Smith ' 1. Joy, joy, brothers, joy ! with full hearts and glad voi-c.es, Alto. , 2. To our Fa-ther, whose fa-vors have e'er been ex - tend-ed, A1 , . ttf- 3. HE hath opened our hands to the calls of the poor ; 4. Praise HIM that our hearts are not cal-lous not cold Let us join in a cho - rus of bless-ing and praise Whose smiles on our la -bors have lightened our toil HE hath soft-ened our hearts by the cry of dis tress ; That we look not on mis - 'ry with un-moistened eye 6. O, Gon ! still may FRIENDSHIP shine bright o'er our way, And LOVE, with sweet accent, still breathe in our ear ! May TRUTH e'er be nigh, our defence and our stay, And for ever we'll go forth the needy to cheet ! We'll fly to the couch of the needy the dying We'll bind up the wounds of our bro- ther in pain And when his cold form In the lone grave is lying, The cry of his loved ones shall n>vi be \ ai : ! 336 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. To the Friend in whose goodness all na - ture re joi ces Whose power hath sustained, and whose arm hath de-fend ed, The need y and friendless have come to our door, gm^f^p^%fe^pgi 1] ^ I I \j--W* 9* yP-i 9 ^ ^ That we leave not the wretch-ed to sor-row un told Who is ev er dis - pen - sing his love and his grace When as-sail - ants have threat-ened our Tern pie to spoil. And found us all rea dy all will - ing to bles Nor pass by un heed -ing the wid-ow's sad cry 7. To our Father, whose favors will e'er be extended Whose smiles on our labors will light- en our toil Whose power will sustain, as his arm hath defended, When assailants have threatened our Temple to spoil : To the God in whose smile the Odd Fellow rejoices Who is ever dispensing his love and his grace To him, brothers, again, with full hearts and glad voices, Let us join in thanksgiving, and bless- ing, and praise. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. CONSECRATION ODE. May be sung at the Consecration of a Hall. 337 Tenor. Th. Elmer Smith. 1. Un - to thee, great God, be - long Mys - tic rites and zz *=d 3t HI sa-cred song; Low-ly bend-ing at thy shrine, We hail thy 5 Warmed by thy benignant grace. Sweet Friendship linked the human race ; Pity lodged within her breast ; Charity became her guest. 6 There the naked raiment found ; Sickness, balsam for its wound ; Sorrow, comfort ; hunger, bread ; Strangers there a welcome shed. 2 Glorious Architect above ! Source of Light and Source of Love I Here thy Light and Love prevail ; Hail ! almighty Master ! hail ! 3 While, in yonder regions bright, The sun by day, the moon by night, And the stars that gild the sky, Blazon forth thy praise on high, 4 Join, O earth ! and as you roll, From east to west, from pole to pole^ Lift to heaven your grateful lays Join the universal praise. 7 Still to us, O God, dispense Thy divine benevolence ! Teach the tender tear to flow, Melting at a brother's woe ; 8 Like Samaria's son, that we, Blest with boundless charity, To th' admiring world may provo They dwell in God who dwell in Love. 29 W 338 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. THE BURIAL. May be sung on a Funeral Occasion. Tenor T. Elmer Smith. 1. They are moving to the church-yard, For "the soul of one has fled," And the sound of solemn dirges Fol-lows clo?e be- hind the dead. 1 I. I , LL LfH U__ l_j 1 I W-l l. They are moving to the church-yard, For "the soul of one has fled ;" And the sound of solemn dirges Follows close behind the dead. 2. There is gloom upon each feature There is sadness in each eye, As the lengthy train of brothers Passes slowly, sadly by. 3. They are moving to the church-yard, In' regalia-honor clad ; But each step is slow and heavy, For each anxious heart is sad. 4. Th' widow's grief, the tears of orphans. These have claimed their kindred sigh From that noble band, who never Pass a suffering brother by. 5. They will stay the widow's anguish. They will dry the orphan's tear ; In the darkest hour of sorrow Will the helping hand be near. 6. And the man of after-yea.* Shall bless those guardians of hie youth. And shall link his father's memory. Too, with Friendship, Love, 'and Truth. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 339 ODD-FELLOWS' PARTING HYMN. Th. Elmei Smith. 1=1= 1. Brothers ! bind the mys-tic chain; Its links keep ev - er bright ; Not a blemish not a stain To dim its golden light. D. C. Heaven to earth, and earth to heaven, And man to God a - bove. Da Capo. _=^ZI I Wondrous chain, to mor-tals given, Binding in the bonds of Love, Da Capo. Who the trembling heart shall stay, When sinking to the dust ; Who shall turn the oppressor's way, When trampling on the just ? God the sinking heart shall free ; He shall break the oppressor's rod Still the hand of man must be The minister of God. Brothers! raise to heaven your hands, The links that bind the heart ! Consecrate anew the bands Of faith, before we part ; Then, in heavenly peace and trust, Part in Friendship, Truth, and Low* Till, released from earth and dust, We meet again above. 340 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. A MANUAL OF PRACTICE, FOR THE GUIDANCE OF PRESIDING OFFICERS, MEMBERS OF LODGES, ETC,* 1. THE presiding officer having taken the chair, and a quorum being present, the minutes of the previous meeting must be read, and in case no mistakes appear upon them, they must be declared approved. The presiding officer must preserve (perforce, if necessary) order and decorum. He may speak to points of order in preference to other members, rising from his seat for that purpose ; and decide questions of order, sub- ject to an appeal to the body by any two members, on which appeal no member should speak more than once, unless by leave of the body. He must rise to put a question, but may state it sitting. He must put no motion until it shall be seconded. 2. Questions must be distinctly put in this form, to wit: "As many as are of opinion that [as the question may be], say 'Ay;'" and after the affirmative voice is expressed, "As many as are of a contrary opinion, say * The Rules here presented are appropriate to the govern- ment of all public bodies. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 341 No. 1 "* If the presiding officer doubt, or if a divis- ion be called for, the body must divide : those in the affirmative of the question must first rise from their seats, and afterward those in the negative. If the presiding officer still doubt, or a count be required, he may name two members, one from each side, to tell the members in the affirmative and negative ;t which being reported, the presiding officer must rise and state the decision to the body. No division and count by tellers will be in order, except upon the motion of two members. 3. All committees must be appointed by the presi- ding officer, unless otherwise specially directed by the By-Laws, in which case they must be appointed oy ballot; and if, upon such ballot, the number re- quired shall not be elected by a majority of the votes given, the body must proceed to a second ballot, in which a plurality of votes may prevail ; and in case a greater number than is required to compose or com- plete a committee shall have an equal number of votes, the body must proceed to a further ballot or ballots. 4. The first-named member of any committee must oe the chairman ; and in his absence, or being excused by the body, the next-named member, and so on, as often as the case shall happen, unless the committee, by a majority of their number, elect a chairman. 5. Any member may excuse himself from serving on any committee at the time of his appointment, if he is then a member of other committees. 6. It is the duty of a committee to meet on the call * In Odd-Fellows' Lodges, so far as the expression of mem- bers is concerned, this form is changed, the voters being required to u give the usual show of an Odd-Fellow." f In an Odd-Fellows' Lodge the Warden acts as teller. 29* 342 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. of any two of its members, if the chairman be absent or decline to appoint such meeting. 7. In all other cases of ballot than for committees, a majority of the votes given must be necessary to an election, and where there shall not be such a majority on the first ballot, the ballots must be repeated until a majority be obtained. And in all ballotings blanks must be rejected, and not taken into the count in the enumeration of votes, or reported by the tellers. 8. In cases of election by the body, the presiding officer may vote, unless a special enactment to the con- trary shall have been made by the body. In cases of equal division of the body, the presiding officer may have the " casting vote." If, by law, he is debarred this privilege, a " tie vote" decides a question lost. 9. The order of business should be as follows : 1. Calling the roll of officers. 2. Reading the minutes of the previous meeting. 3. Consideration of previ- ous proposals for or certificates of membership. 4. In- troduction of new members. 5. Reception of new proposals for or certificates of membership. 6. Con- sideration of unfinished business. 7. Consideration of business of a general description. 8. The reading of communications. 9. Reports of committees, by seniority. 10. Consideration of new business. 10. Resolutions which require investigation, or which it may be necessary to delay for inquiry and future ac- tion, must be referred to a committee, usually of three members, who should report as speedily as the nature of the subject may permit. 11. When a member is about to speak in debate, or for the purpose of making any necessary inquiry, he must rise from his seat, and respectfully address him- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 343 self to the presiding officer. He must confine himself to the question under debate, and avoid personality. 12. When two or more members rise at the same moment, the presiding officer must decide which is entitled to the floor. 1 3. No member should occupy an unreasonable time in debate : a member reporting a resolution under con- sideration from a committee, may open and close the debate upon it. 14. Any member who shall first obtain the floor, after the member reporting a resolution from a com- mittee shall have concluded, may speak in opposition for any reasonable length of time, and others may fol- low, for and against the measure. When the debate is closed by order of the body, any member may be al- lowed five minutes to explain any amendment he may offer ; after which, any member who shall first obtain the floor may be allowed to speak five minutes in oppo- sition to it ; and there must be no further debate on the amendment; but the same privilege of debate may be allowed in favor of and against any amendment that maybe offered to the amendment: and neither the amendment nor an amendment to the amendment should be withdrawn by the mover thereof, unless by the unanimous consent of the body. 15. If any member, in speaking or otherwise, trans- gress the rules of the body, the presiding officer must, or any member may call to order ; in which case, the member so called to order must immediately sit down, unless permitted to explain ; and the body must, if ap- pealed to, decide on the case, but without debate ; if there be no appeal, the decision of the chair must be submitted to. If the decision be in favor of the mem 344 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. her called to order, he should be at liberty to proceed , if otherwise, he must not be permitted to proceed, in case any member object, without leave of the body ; tnd, if the case require it, he will be liable to the ;ensure of the Society. 16. If a member be called to order for words spo- ken in debate, the person calling him to order must repeat the words excepted to, and they must be taken down in writing ; and no member can be held to answer, or be subject to censure for words spoken in debate, if any other member has spoken, or other business has intervened, after the words spoken, and before excep- tion to them shall have been taken. 17. No member shall speak more than once to the same question, without leave of the body, unless he be the mover, proposer, or introducer of the matter pend- ing ; in which case he may be permitted to speak in reply, but not until every member choosing to speak shall have spoken. 18. Tf a question depending be lost by adjournment, and revived on the succeeding meeting, no member who shall have spoken at the preceding meeting should be permitted again to speak without leave. 19. While the presiding officer is putting a question, or addressing the body, none should walk out of or across the room ; nor, in such case, or when a member is speaking, entertain private discourse ; nor, while a member is speaking, pass between him and the chair. Every member must remain uncovered during the ses- sion of the Society. 20. No member should vote on any question in the event of which he is immediately and particularly in- crested. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 345 21. Every member who shall be in the room when the question is put must give his vote, unless the body, for special reason, shall excuse him. All motions to excuse a member from voting must be made before the body divides, or before a call of the yeas and nays is commenced ; and the question must then be taken without further debate. 22 When a motion is made and seconded, it must be stated by the presiding officer; or, being in writing, it must be handed to the chair, and read aloud by the Secretary, before debated. 23. Every motion should be reduced to writing, if the presiding officer or any member desire it. Every written motion should be inserted on the minutes, with the name of the member making it, unless it be with- drawn on the same day or evening on which it was submitted. 24. After a motion is stated by the presiding officer, or read by the Secretary, it must be deemed to be in possession of the body, but may be withdrawn at any time before a decision or amendment. 25. When a question is under debate, no motion can be received but to adjourn, to lie on the table, for the previous question, to postpone to a day certain, to commit or amend, to postpone indefinitely : which sev- eral motions must have precedence in the order in which they are arranged ; and no motion to postpone to a day certain, to commit, or to postpone indefinitely, being decided, can be again allowed on the same day, and at the same stage of the proposition. 26. When a resolution shall be offered; or a motion made, to refer any subject, and different committees shall be proposed, the questior must be taken in the 346 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. following order : the committee of the whole ; a standing committee ; a select committee. 27. A motion to adjourn, and a motion to fix the day to which the Society shall adjourn, is always in order : these motions, and the motion to lie on the table, must be decided without debate. 28. The hour at which every motion to adjourn is made should be entered on the minutes. 29. The previous question must be in this form : " Shall the main question be now put ? " It should only be ad- mitted when demanded by a majority of the members present, and its effects must be to put an end to all debate, and bring the body to a direct vote upon a motion to com- mit, if such motion shall have been made; and if this motion does not prevail, then upon amendments reported by a committee, if any then upon pending amendments; and then upon the main question. On a motion for the previous question, and prior to the seconding of the same, a call of the body will be in order ; but after a majority shall have seconded such motion, no call can be in order prior to a decision of the main question. A member may, at any time, move the previous question. 30. On a previous question there must be no debate. All incidental questions of order arising after a motion is made for the previous question, and pending such motion, must be decided, whether on appeal or otherwise, without debate. 31. When a question is postponed indefinitely, the same should not be acted upon again. 32. Any member may call for the division of a question, which must be divided if it comprehend propositions in substance so distinct, that one being taken away, a sub- stantive proposition shall remain for the decision of the body. A motion to strike out and insert should be deemed indivisible ; but a motion to strike out being lost, pre- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 347 cludea neither amendment nor a motion to strike out and insert. 33. Motions and reports may be committed at the pleasure of the body. 34. No motion or proposition on a subject different from that under consideration can be admitted under color of amendment. No resolution can, at any time, be amended by annexing thereto, or incorporating therewith, any other resolution pending before the body. 35. When a motion has been once made, and carried in the affirmative or negative, it will be in order for any member of the majority to move for the reconsideration thereof, on the same or the succeeding meeting only ; and such motion will take precedence of all other questions, except a motion to adjourn. 36. Where papers are laid before the body, or referred to a committee, every member has a right to have them once read at the table before he can be compelled to vote on them. [But it is a great, though common, error to suppose that he has a right to have acts, journals, accounts, or papers, on the table, read independently of the will of the body. The delay and interruption which this might be made to produce, evince the impossibility of the exist- ence of such a right. There is, indeed, so manifest a propriety of permitting every member to have as much information as possible on every question on which he is to vote, that when he desires the reading, if it be seen that it is really for information, and not for delay, the pre- siding officer directs it to be read without putting a ques- tion, if no one objects. But if objected to, a question must be put.] 37. The unfinished business in which the body was engaged at the last preceding adjournment, must have the preference in regular order; and no motion on any other 348 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. business must be received, without special leave of the body, until the former is disposed of. 38. The name of the member who presents a petition or memorial, or who offers a resolution to the consideration of the body, should be inserted on the minutes. 39. The yeas and nays may be called on the demand of five members. In calling, each member, as his name is uttered by the Secretary, should answer promptly. It is proper for a member opposed to a measure to vote in the affirmative, and vice versd, for the purpose of calling for a reconsideration. 40. When the body forms itself into a committee of the whole, the presiding officer must leave his chair, and appoint a chairman from the committee. No previous question can be put in a committee of the whole ; nor can this committee adjourn as others may; but if their business is unfinished, they may rise on a question, resume the Society, and the chairman will report that the committee of the whole have, according to order, had under their consideration such a matter, and have made progress therein ; but not having time to go through the same, have directed him to ask leave to sit again : whereupon a question is put on their having leave, and on the time when the body will again resolve itself into a committee. But if they have gone through the matter referred to them, a member will move that the committee rise, and that the chairman report their proceedings to the body ; which being resolved, the chairman will rise, the presiding officer resume the chair, and the chairman will inform him that the committee have gone through the business referred to them, and that he is ready to report. 41. All questions must be propounded in the order in which they were moved; but, in filling up blanks, the largest sum, and the longest time named, must be first put. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 349 42. No standing rule or order of the body can be rescinded or changed without previous notice being given of the motion therefor, nor any by-law be suspended, except by a unanimous vote of the members present : nor can the order of business, as established by the rules, be postponed or changed, except by a vote of at least two- thirds of the members present. The body may at any time, by a vote of a majority of the members present, suspend the standing rules for the purpose of going into the committee of the whole ; and also for providing for the discharge of the committee of the whole from the further consideration of any matter referred to it, after acting without debate on all amendments pending, and that may be offered. 43. Questions are to be put, first on the affirmative, and then on the negative side. After the affirmative shall have been put, any member who has not spoken before on it may rise and speak, because it is no full question till the negative part be put. 44. Resolutions involving the alteration of a Constitu- tion or By-Laws of a Society must be adopted by a two- thirds vote, and action on them should be postponed at least two weeks beyond the time of their presentation. RULES OF ORDER FOR GRAND LODGES. ORDER OF BUSINESS. At the annual session, the business shall be taken up in the following order: 1. Receive certificates of Past Grands and Representatives enroll and admit them. 30 350 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 2. Read and pass upon the unapproved minutes of all inter- vening sessions. 3. Calling the roll ; exonerating fines, or granting .eave of absence. 4. Receive and act upon the report of the judge and tellers of the election returns. 5. Report and valedictory of the retiring Grand Master, and its reference. 6. Report of the Deputy Grand Master, and its reference. 7. Report of the Grand Secretary, and its reference. 8. Report of the Grand Treasurer, and its reference. 9. Decision of all contested elections. 10. Reports of standing Committees. 11. Reports of special Committees appointed at previous sessions. 12. Reports of other special Committees. 13. Deferred business; new business taken up and acted on. 14. Installation of officers elect shall take place at the close of the annual session. This Order of Business may be transposed by the direction of the Most Worthy Grand Master, or by vote of the Grand Lodge. PRESIDING OFFICER. 1. The presiding officer shall preserve order and decorum, pronounce the decisions on all questions, except on an appeal from his decision, decide questions of order without debate, subject to an appeal, on which no member shall speak more than once. In case of an appeal, the Right Worthy Grand Warden shall put the question, "Shall the decision of the chair stand as the judgment of the Grand Lodge?" 2. Before putting a question, the presiding officer shall ask, " Is the Grand Lodge ready for the question ? " If no member rise to speak, he shall rise and put the question. While the presiding officer is putting the question or addressing the Lodge none shall walk out of or across the room, nor entertain pri- vate discourse ; and after he has risen to put the question no member shall speak on it. 3. The presiding officer, or any Representative, doubting the THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 353 result of a vote, may call for a division of the Grand Lodge, upon which division, those voting the affirmative shall rise and stand until counted ; after which, those voting in the negative shall rise and stand until counted. The Deputy Grand Master and Grand Warden shall count the vote on either side, and re- port the number to the Most "Worthy Grand Master as each is taken and ascertained. MOTIONS. 4. No motion shall he subject to debate until it shall have been seconded and stated by the presiding officer. It shall be reduced to writing on the call of five Representatives. 5. Any Representative offering a motion, or desiring to ad- dress the Grand Lodge, shall rise and respectfully address the presiding officer, and be recognized by him ; whilst speaking he shall confine himself to the question under debate, and avoid all personality, indecorous, or sarcastic language, and all re- flections on the Grand Lodge or its members. 6. When a question is before the Grand Lodge, no motion shall be in order except to adjourn, the previous question, to lie on the table (these questions shall be decided without de- bate), to postpone indefinitely, to postpone for a certain time, to divide, to commit, or to amend, all of which motions shall have precedence in the order herein designated. 7. A motion for the previous question, seconded by ten Rep- resentatives, shall preclude further amendment or debate, and the presiding officer shall immediately rise and put the question : " Shall the main question be now put ? " If a majority vote in the affirmative, then the vote upon the pending amendment and original motion shall be immediately taken without amendment or debate. 8. Any member who voted on the prevailing side, may move the reconsideration of the vote at the same stated or special session at which the vote was taken, and if sustained by a majority of votes, the reconsideration shall be carried. 9. A motion to adjourn is always in order, except when a vote on the previous question is pending ; if carried in the af- firmative, it is no adjournment until the Grand Lodge adjourns or is closed in form. 352 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 10. All resolutions must be in writing, and shall have the name of the mover and the number of his Lodge written on the same paper. SPEAKING. 11. N"o member shall speak more than once on the same sub- ject or question until all the Representatives desiring to speak shall have had an opportunity to do so, nor more than twice without the permission of the presiding officer, and no membei while speaking shall name another except by his proper title or office, according to his standing in the Order. 12. No member shall interrupt another while speaking, ex- cept to call him to order for words spoken. If requested, the objectionable words shall be taken down by the Grand Secre- tary. The speaker, at the request of the presiding officer, shall take his seat until the question is decided, when, if permitted, he may proceed. 13. Should two or more members rise to speak at the same time, the presiding officer shall decide who is entitled to the floor. QUESTIONS. 14. When a blank is to be filled, the question shall be first taken upon the highest sum or number, and the longest and latest time proposed. 15. Any member may call for a division of a question when the sense will admit of it. But a motion to strike out and in- sert shall be indivisible. 16. When a question has been postponed indefinitely, it shall not be again acted on during that session. 17. The affirmative of any question shall be first put, and afterwards the negative ; but in matters of form, such as read- ing reports, petitions, memorials, or other papers, withdrawing motions, &c., the reading may be ordered or the request granted by the presiding officer stating "if no objections are raised" the reading shall proceed or the request shall be granted, &c., without the formality of a vote. VOTING. 18. When the reading of any paper or other matter is called for it shall be read, unless objected to by any Eepresentative, THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 353 when it shall be determined by a vote of the Grand Lodge, without debate 19. On the call of thirty Rep resent atives the vote on any question arising in a stated or special session of the Grand Lodge shall be taken and counted by Lodges, and the vote of each Lodge, Past Grand Master, and elective officer, shall be entered on the minutes, and published in the proceedings. 20. No Representative shall be permitted to speak or vote unless clothed in regalia according to his rank and station in the Grand Lodge, and shall have the number of his Lodge con- spicuously displayed on his left breast. COMMITTEES. 21. The person first named on a Committee shall act as chairman thereof until another is chosen by the Committee. 22. Any member at the time of his appointment may excuse himself from serving on a Committee, if he be then a member of two other Committees. 23. No Committee can be finally discharged, until all the debts contracted by it are paid. IMPKOPEK CONDUCT. 24. Any member who shall misbehave in the meetings of the Grand Lodge, disturb the order or harmony thereof, either by abusive, disorderly or profane language, or shall refuse obedi- ence to the presiding officer, shall be admonished of his oifence by the chair, and if he offend again he shall be excluded from the room, and afterwards dealt with as the Grand Lodge may direct. 25. No member under charges shall be allowed to be present in the Grand Lodge when the vote thereon is taken. Before the vote is taken, the member charged shall have the perusal of all documents and papers relating to his case, and shall be heard in his defence. MANUAL. 26. The manual of parliamentary practice of the House of Representatives shall govern the Grand Lodge as far as the same is applicable, except when otherwise specially provided. 30* X 354 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. CONDITION OF THE ORDER IN 1877. IN preceding pages we have given a general History of the Order in America. We propose now to present a brief account of the origin of the Fraternity in the several States, together with the number of Lodges and of mem- bers in each. WASHINGTON LODGE, NUMBER ONE, May justly claim the honor of being the pioneer in a cause which has been and is of immense value in the United States. From this small beginning have proceeded thousands of Lodges, and hundreds of thousands of mem- bers, that have accomplished, in one generation (about fifty-one years) more real, substantial good to mankind than all other similar associations. Washington Lodge, No. 1, was instituted on the 26th of April, 1819, at the public-house (in Second Street, Baltimore) called " Sign -of -the -Seven -Stars" of which Mr. WILT JAM LUPTON was the worthy host. The Odd- Fellows who were the " head and front " of this proceed- ing were THOMAS WILDEY, JOHN WELCH, JOHN DUNCAN, JOHN CHEATHEM, RICHARD RUSHWORTH. In 1821, the Grand Lodge of Maryland was insti- tuted, having but two Subordinate Lodges under its jurisdiction. This was the only Grand Lodge of the I. O. O. F. in the United States. In 1822 the nura- THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 355 ber had not increased ; the two Subordinate Lodges in Maryland reporting a revenue of only $442.90. Be- tween February, 1823, and February, 1824, Grand Lodges were instituted in Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania, making four Grand Lodges, the whole number having but six Subordinate Lodges under their jurisdiction. During the same period the two Subordinate Lodges in Maryland reported a rev- enue of $843.10. From February, 1824, to February, 1825, the number of Subordinate Lodges had increased to nine ; from February, 1825, to April, 1826, they had increased to twelve; from April, 1826, to May, 1827, they had increased to fourteen, and from May, 1827, to May, 1828, they had increased to nineteen two of them being located in the District of Columbia. The Sub- ordinate Lodges in Pennsylvania reported a member- ship of 568 in 1828. From May, 1828, to May, 1829, there were five Grand Lodges, one having been insti- tuted in the District of Columbia, and the Subordinate Lodges had increased to thirty-one, and the member- ship in Pennsylvania had increased to 1,009. From May, 1829, to September, 1830, the Subordinate Lodges had increased to fifty-eight, and the membership in the jurisdictions of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Dis- trict of Columbia was reported to be 3,036, and the revenue in the same jurisdictions was $15,727.48. This was the commencement, little over fifty years since, of an organization on this continent, and its history for a period of ten years, begun by five men " unknown to fame," and in the humble spheres of life, that has been an incalculable blessing to tens of thousands, pecuniarily and morally, and which will 356 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. continue a double blessing beyond all human calcula- tion. To show the extent of the benevolence of this institution, and the proportions to which it has attained at the present day, and which is neither political nor sectarian, we present in tabular form the number of L-odges and Encampments under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States, and the amount disbursed for the relief of the sick and afflicted, the burial of the dead, for the relief of widowed families, and for the education of orphans, in the year 1877. PAST GRAND SIRES. Thomas Wildey, 1825-1833, Baltimore, Md. ; died Oct. 19, 1861. Jas. Gettys, 1833-1835,Georgetown, Dist of Col.; died Aug. 15, 1844. George Keyser, 1835-1837, Baltimore, Md. ; died Sept. 19, 1837. S. H. Perkins, 1837-1840, Philadelphia, Penn. ; died May 22, 1874. Zenas B. Glazier, 1840-1841, Wilmington, Del. ; died Nov. 11, 1858. J. A. Kennedy, 1841-1843, N. Y. City, N. Y. ; died June 20, 1873. Howell Hopkins, 1843-1845, Philadelphia, Pa.; died June 5, 1858. Thomas Sherlock, 1845-1847, Cincinnati, Ohio. Horn R. Kneass, 1847-1849, Philadelphia, Pa. ; died Dec. 12, 1861. Robert H. Griffin, 1849-1851, Savannah, Ga. ; died Dec. 14, 1855. tfilliam W. Moore, 1851-1853, Washington, District of Columbia. Wilmot De Saussure, 1853-1855, Charleston, South Carolina. William Ellison, 1855-1857, Boston, Mass. ; died Aug. 23, 1877. George W. Race, 1857-1858, New Orleans, Louisiana. Samuel Craighead, 1858-1860, Dayton, Ohio. R. B. Boylston, 1860-1862, Winnsborough, S. C. ; died Sept. 5, 1865. Jas. B. Nicholson, 1862-1864, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Isaac M. Veitch, 1864-1866, Saint Louis, Missouri. James P. Sanders, 1866-1868, Yonkers, New York. Edward D. Farnsworth, 1868-1870, Nashville, Tennessee. Frederick D. Stuart, 1870-1872, Washington, Dist. of Columbia. Cornelius A. Logan, 1872-1874, Leavenworth, Kansas. M. J. Durham, 1874-1876, Danville, Kentucky. PRESENT GRAND SIRE. John W. Stokes, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 357 STATISTICS OF AMERICAN ODD-FELLOWSHIP. NUMBER OF LODGES, NUMBER OF MEMBERS AND INITIATIONS, YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1876. JURISDICTIONS. No. of Lodges. No. of Initia- tions. i 2 ^ o,S 6 fc No. of Deaths. No. of Broth- ers Relieved. No. of Wid- owed Families Relieved. Amount of the Annual Re- ceipts. Alabama 38 126 1,183 9 71 26 88,335.79 56 194 1,487 18 122 9 11,400.31 British Columbia... California 5 238 52 1,871 492 20,201 3 225 61 2,302 2 208x 10,715.51 436,118.45 Chili 8 127 399 4 10 2 11,504.37 27 199 1 215 8 90 5 16.802.93 Connecticut 49 621 5,930 46 486 23 57,402.25 11 78 315 2 22 2 3,270.72 33 121 2537 29 269 23 26,523.18 District Columbia- Florida 13 10 71 54 1,952 318 32 4 328 19 76 1 21,869.04 3,057.92 48 232 2043 47 130 27 12,921.89 Illinois 560 3,169 26,812 219 2,517 266 219,806.52 515 2293 26,404 242 3,284 317 235,551.49 324 2 188 17476 95 988 83 97,244.40 Kansas 130 621 4,968 28 319 38 36,261.65 216 521 10028 100 985 325 54,033.91 25 169 1 086 28 104 43 15,742.08 Low. Prov. B. N. A. 23 54 392 1 060 1,629 7606 7 44 92 574 11 26 8,890.74 59,225.91 105 380 12 118 177 2005 170 98,828.54 Massachusetts 134 262 1,703 1 856 21,685 13 451 191 92 1,494 487 517 110 179,078.26 78,723.02 50 455 2598 23 153 16 26,004.20 46 109 1 577 20 123 17 10564 91 315 1373 12691 116 1,272 310 89,695.00 8 55 256 14 4 958 55 62 314 2345 11 104 10 19 870 00 27 159 2045 17 165 7 49 312.71 New Hampshire.... 49 168 648 829 6,642 14 740 55 159 546 1 765 22 140 43,696.72 141 206 00 454 3725 39026 472 2,799 503 333 762.15 North Carolina Ohio 58 622 215 2845 1,784 44,981 it; 412 160 3,666 7 438 10,542.89 322,134.23 164 2038 11 738 70 1,040 100 101 97fi.24 72 271 2891 19 306 28 58 142.14 Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina Switzerland 894 40 15 7 146 5,473 375 52 66 382 91,788 5,419 663 236 4138 950 34 10 2 27 11,541 418 36 16 336 1,116 18 7 2 139 764,824.90 58,456.77 8,254.85 1,865.45 31451.74 Texas 173 772 4,749 62 466 36 50,622.11 Utah 5 55 296 4 23 1 6 676.70 17 170 1 282 7 26 2 6 086 98 Virginia 48 253 3 192 46 549 155 32 986 00 West Virginia 81 239 299 1 378 4,426 13487 21 99 449 567 53 112 34,952.69 86 867.32 Wyoming 9 71 418 5 28 1 5,564 58 Total 6,653 40,480 455,293 4,307 43,327 5,550 83,998,844.71 358 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. AMOUNTS EXPENDED FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1876, FOR RELIEF OF BROTHERS AND THEIR FAMILIES, AND FOR FUNERAL EXPENSES OF DECEASED MEMBERS, AND TOTAL AMOUNT OF RELIEF EXTENDED IN THAT YEAR. JURISDICTIONS. Amount Paid for the Relief of Brothers. Amount Paid for the Relief of Widowed Families. Amount Paid for Burying the Dead. Total Belief. Alabama 51,070.10 $351 80 $429.00 $1 932.40 Arkansas 1,159.45 172.60 438.00 1,782.85 British Columbia California 3,050.00 101,724.92 30.00 , 17,714.04 222.00 18,935.32 3,302.00 149,186.66 Chili 277.00 60.00 186.50 523.50 Colorado 2,735.50 191.00 480.75 3,407.25 Connecticut 12,786.81 457.18 3,206.05 18,973.95 Dakota 173.00 30.25 96.12 350.62 Delaware 7,196.64 249.54 2,831.41 10,603.24 District Columbia Florida 7,420.00 129.00 2,977.22 20.00 1,809.77 60.00 12,791.91 239.00 Georgia 3,477.10 1,169.50 1,401.00 6,074,36 Illinois 33,609.14 5,222.66 7,704.27 50,242.48 Indiana 52,443.56 5,885.96 14.022.00 76,007.25 13,495.60 260665 3,167 17 20,45:> 52 Kansas 4,596.50 924.50 985.00 7 578.50 18,775.06 5556 73 4,811.56 32,060.43 2,313.25 1 162 95 1 541 82 5,270.22 Low. Prov. B. N. A... Maine 1,170.64 21,123.72 177.50 771.05 237.28 1,460.00 1,585.42 23,506.84 46.281.00 20,831.57 7,934.47 79,329.45 37,415.93 594438 8 167 40 57,974.57 Michigan 8,492.08 2,331.95 3,279.92 15,608.74 Minnesota Mississippi 2,392.38 1,379.20 624.60 328.05 713.25 605.00 4,377.23 2,312.25 Missouri 18,741.50 604.00 8,402.00 5,027.00 36,314.50 604.00 Nebraska 1,422.10 230.00 420.00 2,242.10 9,744.25 43255 1,482.75 12,509.35 New Hampshire 12,922.93 52,743.03 757.54 389700 2,725.10 11 51492 17,142.20 68 313 95 New York 101,515.81 17 590 77 31,958.72 151,683.92 North Carolina Ohio 1,172.48 84,231.03 125.00 12217.53 285.00 13,770.77 1,623.80 116,743.27 12,148.39 3,94fi 05 2 637 82 20,663.31 Oregon 7,170.67 1 635.00 809.36 11,773.88 286.006.60 14 469 88 78 079.71 379,26f>.46 Rhode Island 13,942.20 353.00 2,094.00 18,717.25 South Carolina 448.50 186.00 142.00 813 107.00 2800 725.50 302.13 5,222.77 3 68'' 64 1 431 05 11 891 95 Texas 5,395.45 714.15 2 3M6 43 9,066.93 Utah 308.00 61 00 10400 54200 879.77 3500 25000 1 16477 12,097.00 4,16300 465500 21,424.00 West Virginia. 8,143.58 9,713.54 750.15 6231 40 3,636.70 4 522 72 13,344.93 22 172 39 Wyoming 716.65 62.50 245.25 1,024.40 Total 81 030,163.83 8155 697 97 $252 316 36 81 504 731.62 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 359 NUMBER OF ENCAMPMENTS, NUMBER OF MEMBERS AND INITIATIONS, ETC., YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1876. JURISDICTIONS. & h "38 Initiated. Members, Dec. 31, 1876. No. of Patriarchs buried. No. of Patriarchs Relieved. 1* .2 . tt t3 SaS: C3 Q} 0^:= Total Receipts. Alabama 9 7 59 11 20 8 4 13 175 142 89 26 55 5 23 29 41 80 14 16 73 8 7 24 45 91 12 199 34 7 226 17 5 36 57 9 17 27 61 38 7 392 24 228 25 15 27 851 459 569 108 132 32 302 60 421 270 51 23 149 47 29 154 166 524 19 721 274 9 599 73 35 112 52 43 34 237 175 124 3,490 289 1,735 372 584 453 5,501 5,771 3,040 838 2,345 161 2,480 2,010 6,084 2,587 495 278 1,954 282 363 2,186 2,472 5,438 264 11,350 1,794 374 14,430 1,526 258 689 1,015 347 703 824 2,132 2 4 20 3 10 5 8 6 36 63 15 2 7 3 15 27 62 13 1 4 14 'S 24 23 62 2 104 20 2 f52 11 9 2 256 '"72 50 52 37 309 682 89 25 170 6 156 474 230 35 8 28 114 8 20 115 240 261 1,085 111 2,021 62 1 1 15 1 14 6 2 "9 1 24 3 4 i 5 "3 3 6 22 2 24 1 $1,002.45 725.00 45,065.07 1,451.30 7,377.24 1,611.80 2,660.25 1,490.30 19,484.13 24,125.70 9,665.72 3.916.30 8,111.73 1,115.65 12,648.82 14,747.63 29,461.90 7,452.98 2,084.80 1,199.70 8,279.95 1,248.34 5,065.02 6,225.40 11,039.93 20,062.78 827.86 63,777.51 6,154.17 1,564.54 99,914.19 8,865.05 Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Dist. Columbia.. Georgi a Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts.... Michigan Minnesota. Mississippi Missouri Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New York North Carolina.. Ohio Ontario Oregon Pennsylvania.... Rhode Island.... South Carolina- Tennessee Texas 2 8 1 8 9 12 37 27 6 55 75 10 3 "e 1 13 2,799.10 4,012.35 962.28 2,799.36 2,986.47 5,753.94 Vermont Virginia West Virginia... Wisconsin Total 1,781 7,321 87,213 763 6,937 171 $447,736.71 360 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. AMOUNT EXPENDED IN ENCAMPMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1876, FOR RELIEF OF PATRIARCHS AND THEIR FAMILIES, AND FOR FU- NERAL EXPENSES OF DECEASED MEMBERS, AND TOTAL AMOUNT OF RELIEF EXTENDED IN THAT YEAR. JUEISDICTIOK. Amount Paid for the Relief of Patriarchs. 2^3 -31 . ^j *"* 13 39 Ijsll O ** <<2'ota Amount Paid for Burying the Dead. kj _o "3 a "3 1 Alabama $68.75 $25 00 $93 75 Arkansas 12.00 $1000 1000 3200 California 11,372.15 749.00 1,278.00 13,449.15 Connecticut 926.80 165 00 1 131.80 Delaware 1,469.00 9.00 315 00 1,813.00 District Columbia. 1,091.00 16000 1,251.00 Georgia 241.00 85.00 326.00 Illinois 3,056.87 305.00 450 40 3,812.27 Indiana 8,966.63 5355 1 731 25 10,928.63 Iowa 1,829.25 50.00 155.00 2,073.75 Kansas 282.00 282.00 Kentucky 3 130 50 50 00 654 00 4 002 60 Louisiana 120.70 40.00 160.70 Maine Maryland 6,545.44 7,207.00 2 290.00 200.00 71800 6,765.44 10,273.00 Massachusetts Mich i "an 3,954.25 522.58 40.10 60.50 1,491.00 20000 5,620.35 783.08 Minnesota 73.00 73.00 M is-:jssippi 244.50 30.00 57 50 332.00 Missouri 1,369.65 104.50 215.40 1,689.55 Nebrask a 103.50 103.50 NVvada 844.50 175.00 1,122.50 New Hampshire- New Jersey 1,333.59 4,907.95 100.00 25 00 170.00 391 00 1,605.59 5,367.68 New York 5,666 06 101 00 2 104 05 7,871.11 Xorth Carolina.... Ohio 23 597 93 433 50 2 337 09 26 368.52 Ontario 789.94 1400 25000 1,086.19 Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island 50,572.25 1,463.78 789.25 25.00 9,917.35 300.00 61,338.85 1,847.64 Tennessee 264.00 6500 4000 369.00 Texas 23450 103 50 338.00 Vermont 92.00 5200 144.00 Virginia 1,179.30 25800 12000 1,557.30 West Virginia Wisconsin 1,135.50 128.00 5.00 809.00 468.00 205.00 1,608.50 1,142.00 Total $144,795.87 $6,519.90 $24,440.04 $176,763.45 THE ODD-FBI .LOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 361 ODD-FELLOWSHIP. ODD- FELLOWSHIP, like all other institutions de- vised for the benefit of mankind, is the fruit of a progressive civilization. By this power it has been wonderfully advanced and developed in the expan- sion of its capabilities, and the enlargement of its field of labor. After more than fifty years of unre- mitting effort in its proper sphere, it has become a fixed institution of society as a reliable secular aid against the pressure of suffering humanity. It has grown, as many other Orders of kindred character, formed in a good degree upon its example, out of the demand for auxiliaries, by the physical, as well as the moral needs of men. Progress and civilization, which are practically correlative terms, are always moving under the light of accumulating experience, constrained by a continuous " necessity as the mother of invention." All our institutions, whether social, political, religious, or moral, are the creatures of this mystic force, and have been controlled, modified, re- formed, and perfected under its processes, so that their present excellence has been graduated from rude and simple originals. Under this law of the social organization, mutual co-operation against the trials of life has been introduced, as alike the instinct of a common humanity and the suggestion of a wise Providence. It has enabled men to uplift and succor each other in adversity, free from public dependence, and to promote a spirit of fraternity which knits them together in spite of the partition-walls set up to estrange and separate them. Although but feebly 362 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. supported in its inception, it has conquered its way by persistent effort. In the present century it has had a grand success. Everywhere are such associations formed, and the principle is universally recognized, that of all the obligations of men to society none are paramount to the duty of helping each other. As a practical illustration of this truth, millions are con- tributed in this direction through lay or secular or- ganizations, instituted exclusively in the interest of an improved humanity. Citizens of all sects, relig- ious as well as political, have been educated in this school to ignore selfish combinations, and to come to- gether on a common platform for mutual support. The vast amount thus applied would otherwise have been hoarded, possibly, for personal aggrandizement. The most effective form in which this valuable auxiliary is exerted, is in the associated efforts of men, who harmonize in this work however differing in other re- spects ; especially is this the case when such organi- zations are confederated and systematically united, having their agencies and subordinates multiplied in every city, town, village, and hamlet throughout the earth. Who can calculate the value of such institutions, not >nly to their immediate membership, but as substan- tial public supports? Their withdrawal would be seriously felt, not only as the loss of an immense moral power in society, but also from the fact that their absence would necessarily transfer the burden which they bear to the public. Among the many tributaries to the general welfare of this character which are diffusing blessings upon men, from year to THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 363 year, noiselessly, yet most effectively, Odd-Fellow- ship, by its widely-extended resources, has done a colossal work. A brief statement, without the aid of comment, will abundantly verify this fact : From 1830 to December 31, 1876 Initiations 1,022,800 Members relieved ... 773,191 Widowed families relieved 102,754 Members deceased 69,867 Total receipts $64,633,783.90 Total relief 23,982,887.62 RECAPITULATION OF STATISTICS. LODGES. No. of Grand Lodges 48 No. of Lodges, December 31, 1876 6,678 No. of Members, December 31, 1876 456,125 No. of New Members Initiated in 1876 40,646 No. of Deaths in 1876 ^ 4,307 No. of Members Relieved in 1876 43,327 No. of Widowed Families Relieved in 1876 5,550 Arnouut Paid for Relief of Members $1,030,163.83 Amount Paid for Relief of Widowed Families 155,697.97 Amount Paid for Burying the Dead 252,316.36 Amount Paid for Fxiucation of Orphans 14,947.70 Total Amount Paid for Relief. 1,504,731.62 Total Revenue for year 1876 4,284,867.96 ENCAMPMENTS. No. of Grand Encampments , 39 No. of Encampments, December 31, 1876 1,806 No. of Members, December 31, 1876 87,785 No. of Members Initiated same year 7,321 No. of Deaths same year 763 No. of Members Relieved same year 6,937 No. of Widowed Families Relieved same year 171 Amount Paid for the Relief of Members $177,151.45 Amount Paid for Burying the Dead 24,440.04 Amount Paid for Relief of Widowed Families 6,519.90 Total Amount Paid for Relief in 1876 176,763.45 Amount of Receipts for same year 453,034.72 Total Receipts from all sources during year 1876 4,489,872.46 Total Relief for all Purposes during same year 1,689,485.62 The Lodges in Australia and Germany are not in- cluded in the above statement. 364 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. These figures are presented to show the practical value of such agencies to society at large, in strength- ening the arm of government, adding, as they do, immense power to it, by the moral supports which they supply. Not that we would boast or be vain- glorious of our good works, but that necessarily, in describing our mission during half a century and more, its fruits must appear, and illustrate, as a nat- ural outgrowth, the divine principles upon which Odd Fellowship rests. Yet, notwithstanding this glorious record, our pathway has been impeded and greatly hindered. We have, however, survived all opposition, and can to-day congratulate ourselves that we have at length enlisted the favor of all good men in Church and State, of every class and calling, and of every kindred benevolent Order, without exception, and have thus conquered every enemy worthy of con- sideration. Justly, therefore, may we exult upon our signal prosperity, especially when it has been reached by our own unaided labors. Looking from the present stand-point upon the past of American Odd- Fellowship, and from these forming a rational esti- mate of its future, our hearts may swell with honest pride, in the consciousness that we have not lived in vain. In another half century, it will in all proba- bility have girdled the earth with its golden chain, and diffused its blessings upon millions. Can it be a matter of w wider, that in such a cause, Odd Fellows should counsel together for its welfare, to renew their vows of fidelity and devotion to it, and to each other, and to supplicate with uplifted hearts for the continued favor of Him, who has ever been its THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 365 firm friend and support, and for the promotion of whose original intend ment of fraternity among men, it has unremittingly toiled for so many years ? Oh ! no, the wonder would be that we could be such un- worthy descendants of the noble sires who have be- queathed to us the legacy, as to fail to realize its value and our duty to preserve and perpetuate it. ODD -FELLOWSHIP IN FOREIGN COUN- TRIES. GERMANY. Odd-Fellowship in the Fatherland is assuring and encouraging. The Institution, under the guidance of our German Brethren, enjoys the highest degree of prosperity, and its char- acter is a subject of gratification and admiration. Herewith is a statement of the status of the Order in that jurisdiction, January 1, 1877. Under the immediate jurisdiction of the Lodges. Members. Grand Lodge of the German Empire 4 133 Grand Lodge of Brandenburg 12 761 Grand Lodge of Wurtemberg 13 587 Grand Lodge of Hanover 8 360 Grand Lodge of Saxony 5 170 Total 42 2,011 Encampments, 5 ; members, 185 ; receipts for year 1876, by Subordinates of Brandenburg and Wurtemberg, $5,181; relief, $1,165. The following statement of the Order under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the German Empire is 31* 366 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Grand Lodges, 4. Members, January 1, 1876 1,789 Initiated, 443; admitted by card, 76; reinstated, 1. Total. 520 2,309 Deduct withdrawn, 147 ; suspended, 118; expelled, 16 ; de- ceased, 15. Total 296 Members, December 31, 1876 2,013 Encampments, 5. Members, January 1, 1876 209 Initiated, 12; admitted by card, 1; reinstated, 1. Total... 14 223 Deduct withdrawn, 4 ; suspended, 33 ; deceased,!. Total.. 38 Members, December 31, 1876 185 Number of Brothers relieved, 184 ; widowed families relieved, 59. Paid for the relief of Brothers $2,010.12 Paid for the relief of widowed families 529.75 Paid for the education of orphans 92.50 Paid for burying the dead 562.00 Paid for special relief 360.75 Total relief. $3,555.12 Amount of the annual receipts, $21,142.17. Number of Patriarchs relieved, 3. Paid for the relief of Patriarchs, $17.25. Amount of annual receipts of the Encampments, $292.75. AUSTRALIA. The twenty-third session of the Grand Lodge of Australia was held at Ballarat, August 15, 16, and 17, 1876. The Lodges in the Colony of Victoria are numbered from No, 1 to 89, inclusive, and in Tasmania from No. 1 to 3, inclusive. Membership, March 31, 1876, Victoria, 41 Lodges 2,387 Membership, March 31, 1876, Tasmania, 3 Lodges 153 Total 2,540 Year ending December 31, 1876. Assets of the 41 Lodges in Victoria $41,368 Paid to sick members 9,653 Total receipts 36,549 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 367 The Funeral Fund is contributed by the Subordinates to the Grand Lodge, which receives and disburses the same. Amount thus paid by the Grand Lodge $3,050 Amount paid by Lodges to the sick 9,653 Total relief for the year $12,703 Balance General Funeral Fund of the Grand Lodge, June 80,1876 $19,400 Balance Grand Lodge Fund, June 30, 1876 16.330 Balance Hall and Asylum Fund, June 30, 1876 2,856 NEW ZEALAND. " The Order has been making steady progress, and with funds to credit representing about 8 per member," (say $40,00). From the printed Journals of the 13th and 14th Annual Ses- sions, held August 23-27 and September 1, 1875, and September 18, 19, 20, 22, October 4 and 11, 1876, we compile the following, converting their currency into dollars and cents: June 30, 1875. June 30, 1876. Number of Lodges 14 15 Number of members 600 650 Funeral Fund held by Grand Lodge $2,483 $3,753 Incidental or Management Fund 561 537 Aggregate value of Lodge funds 12,600 15,000 Expended during the year for sickness.. 975 635 Expended during the year for funerals... 150 425 Total relief $1,125 $1,060 Twenty Lodges have been instituted, four dissolved, and one amalgamated, leaving fifteen working. The Order in Australasia, at the latest advices, consisted of the Lodges. Members. Grand Lodge of Australia, Colony of Victoria 44 2,510 New South Wales 2 160 Tasmania 3 180 Grand Lodge of New Zealand 17 800 Total 66 3,660 368 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. BURIED BY ODD-FELLOWS. " MR. FELIX CORPUT, Noble Grand of the United Brothers' Lodge, No. 5, I. O. O. F., hands us the following note, which arrived yesterday, addressed to the Secretary of the Lodge. We have never seen an instance which presents in more beautiful aspect the grand mesh of benevolence which Odd-Fellowship is weaving around the earth. The mystic links of the Order which symbol the highest traits of human character are large enough to embrace the world, and so widely have they extended, so vast has become the brotherhood, that let a man fall, there are hands ready to lift him up, and if he perish, there are those who will see that he has proper burial. It will be a con- solation to the friends of poor SPRITZ to know that his body was so kindly cared for, and decently en- tombed. Here is the letter, exemplifying the beauti- ful workings of the Order of Odd-Fellows : " SCILLY ISLE, ST. MARY'S, May 17, 1875. "DEAR SIR AND BROTHER: In the pocket of one of the un- fortunate sufferers by the loss of the ' Schiller ' on our shore, was found a card showing that Brother H. SPRITZ was a member of United Brothers' Lodge of Odd-Fellows, of Macon, Ga., and was in good standing in his Lodge. " Not knowing our brother in life, we knew him only in death, and paid our last token of respect by following his remains to their last resting-place, in regalia. If you can give me any in- formation as to his parents' whereabouts, I shall feel obliged, a I wish to communicate with them. " I remain yours, etc., J. C. TONKINS, Hope of Scilly Lodge, No. 2257." ODD-FELLOWSHIP -WHAT IS IT? THIS question has doubtless presented itself to many who know nothing of Odd-Fellowship, except perchance from common report, or the vague suggestions of a mor- bid prejudice; hence it is often condemned as an idle organization, characterized, as its name would seem to import, rather for levity than for fidelity to the noble object at which it professes so earnestly and exclusively to aim. To correct so common an error, to remove such unjust prejudices, and to secure for Odd-Fellowship the approving sentiment it so well deserves, are the objects of this brief paper. In the confidence of conscious merit, it courts a scrutiny into its principles and practices, with the assurance that an enlightened public opinion will render an impartial judgment on the standard of excel- lence which pervades the one, and the practical benefits that flow from the other. ITS NAME. The name often confuses and perplexes intelligent and liberal-minded people. Why, it is asked, assume a designation so singular, if the object be excellent, and such as all good men would commend? The candid inquiry should be, what is the object, what the fruit of the tree claimed to be prolific of good? If the sugges- tion should be made why Freemasonry is so called, practical masonry forming at this day no part of its work, the reply would doubtless be, that, although such is the fact, it does not follow that the name is idle or Y 369 370 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. inappropriate, since there may be a fitness in its appli- cation of an entirely independent character. The name of Freemasonry may, and actually does, import associa- tions significant of and inseparable from the origin of the Order. Having had its beginning centuries ago with the artisans of the masonic craft, for their mutual protection and recognition, and the advancement of their noble art, the history of its early struggles to maintain its universality, and a thousand other hal- lowed memories connected vnth its progress amid the fall of empires and the conflicts of nations, have justly inspired a veneration for its name, notwithstanding its practical appositeness may have ceased to exist. Its name is affectionately cherished by its votaries, because it has lived and moved, and had a prolonged and useful being through the vast past, still lives in the teeming and novel present, and gives promise that it will survive through the distant and pregnant future. So with Odd- Fellowship; it also had its origin with the sons of toil, and of the same craft, viz., the marble masons of Lon- don, at the close of the last century. A wise Providence led them, whose daily bread depended upon their daily toil, by association to form a common fund, and thus to secure in health the means of support when prostrated by disease. In its experimental outset, like Freema- sonry, it encountered a corresponding ordeal ; it had no prestige to smooth its uneven and obstructed pathway; reliant only upon its intrinsic worth, it also has survived jbloquy and prejudice for more than half a century, and has lived to attain its present meridian height. Can it excite wonder that these memories, which cluster around the name of Odd-Fellow, should secure for it a love and veneration that overcome and subdue the merely fastidious taste which would discard or shun it? No one can affirm that this name, though the cause of THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 371 touch prejudice, has not been, in a proportionate degree, an element of success. Conceived in humility, it has achieved and become identified with an honorable dis- tinction. Its good deeds have made it familiar to the public ear and popular mind. Wherefore, then, the wisdom or the propriety of changing it? Such a change would not now be possible. It cannot be made. ITS OBJECT. The idea of Odd-Fellowship at the beginning, instinc- tive of a wise Providence, was, as has been already stated, mutual relief and protection. It was, it is true, a crudely digested system, if system it could be called. This idea, embodied into substantial form, and disci- plined by experience and observation, continues to be a vital, although by no means the predominant, element of its organization. It assumes, also, as a cardinal office, an earnest and unintermitting care for the moral health of its membership. Man has a moral as well as a physical nature, and the wants of each being recipro- cal, they keep equal pace and move in parallel lines. There is a mutual dependence which controls both. In truth, there is no appetite of the human body more craving and inexorable, than is the insatiate hunger of the human heart for moral support. Infirmity of body, as well as of mind, is common to humanity ; and there exists necessarily, as inseparable from this condition, a corresponding natural desire for sympathy. To supply this ever - recurring want, Odd-Fellowship addresses itself, by a combination of efforts, in aid of the moral as well as of the physical man. These two aims, hap- pily blended, comprehend its lever power against pen- ury and vice, by which it labors to mitigate as well " the ills to which all flesh is heir," as to elevate and ennoble our nature. 372 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. ITS SECRECY. The term secrecy denotes something hidden, or con- cealed from the common eye. So as vice and immoral- ity instinctively shun the light, and shrink from its gaze into the darkest recesses, mankind are accustomed to associate evil with every private or secret organiza- tion; hence the too general condemnation of Odd-Fel- lowship and other kindred benevolent societies, Undei the prompting of this ordinary prejudgment, it is often asked, with an air of conscious triumph, why "hide your light under a bushel?" This argument, if such it may be called, addresses itself indiscriminately against the merit of everything which the vulgar eye cannot discern. It is a general, or rather a universal, anathema against secrecy in the abstract. To follow where its conclusions lead would be to involve society in inextri- cable confusion, since secrecy, or mystery, in so far as human intellect can reach, is rather the rule than the exception. There is no relation of life, or sphere of nature, without its proper and inevitable secret no science, no art, no philosophy, nothing beneath the sum which " The mind of man Can fully scan." Abstract secrecy, or secrecy of itself, is, therefore, no valid objection. There is, however, a sense in which secrecy is an evil ; that is when it is perverted, just as any other principle, however good in itself, when abused, will exert a mischievous and pernicious influence. The true touchstone is the use, not the abuse, of secrecy, to this test Odd-Fellowship cordially submits its work. But, apart from this view of the general subject, strange as it may sound to the uninitiated, it is never- theless true that Odd-Fellowship is not a secret society. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 373 By far the larger portion of its ritual, or work, is in print, and is known to thousands and hundreds of thou- sands ; all of its general legislation, comprising volumes of matter, is accessible to the public eye, and much of its ceremonial is constantly displayed to the public gaze. True, it possesses an unwritten and unspoken language, intelligible only to the membership. This language is, however, unimportant to the outside world, since it serves simply the purpose of mutual recognition between those to whom it is known. The members of the family have exclusive claims upon the supply which their joint labors and contributions have stored; hence it is fitting that safeguards should be thrown around these claims how otherwise could a mutual relief soci- ety, in the secular sense of the word, be sustained ? This is all the secrecy of Odd-Fellowship. ITS GOVERNMENT. All objects, the successful attainment of which is hoped for by the combination of masses of men, and the consolidation of many minds into a single will, demand a subordination which can only be maintained by a sys- tem of law and order. Odd-Fellowship, in conformity to this experience, has an organization peculiar to itself. It has a paramount fundamental law, embodied in the form of a written Constitution, emanating from a supreme federal head, styled the Grand Lodge of the United States. This body is representative in its char- acter, and exercises executive, legislative, and judicial powers. It assembles once a year; during its recess its chief officer, called the M. W. Grand Sire, chosen bien- nially by the Body itself, is vested with executive power within constitutional limits. From the Grand Lodge of the United States, as the great heart of the Order, flow, and are distributed, the ramified powers and func- 32 374 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. tions which are possessed and exercised by its subordi- nate agencies. The first, and the most important, of these, are the State, Territorial, Provincial or Colonial Grand Bodies, so called for the reason that their sphere of action is confined to their respective geographical limits. These bodies each have written constitutions and general laws for the government of the Order with- in their respective jurisdictions, enacted by themselves, but subject to the approval of the Grand Lodge of the United States. From them, also, are chosen biennially the representatives to the Grand Lodge of the United States, and by them alone are the primary assemblies of the Order, the Subordinate Bodies, created and immediately supervised, subject, however, to a ritual and general regulations, which are alike common to every Lodge of Odd-Fellows throughout the globe. The Subordinate Lodge is the active working theatre of the Order, and membership in good standing in uny one Lodge, evidenced by proper authority, is a passport to admission into any other Lodge, wherever situated, and to aid and assistance from it when the brother who desires the one, or needs the other, makes known his character. This system of government has proved so admirably adapted to the great object of the institution, that perfect fellowship and subordination have prevailed ever since its formation; each body adhering to its appropriate sphere, and all moving in perfect harmony as a whole. RELIGIOUS ASPECT. Odd-Fellowship is a moral, not a religious organiza- tion. The religious world is divided into many sects, each intent upon the promotion of its peculiar plans and interests, and of consequence wanting in that unity of action so essential in every secular institution to the THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK 375 eecurement of those great results which illustrate the triumph of benevolence and charity. This want is, in a good degree, met by the employment of an agency not amenable to such a disability, and in which men of many sects and creeds may cordially co-operate and labor, upon common ground, for the relief of human suffering. Such an institution is Odd-Fellowship. It does not array itself against the CHURCH, nor presume to arrogate its functions, or to supervise its teachings. Its Lodges are not the council-rooms of enmity to reli- gious, civil, moral, or social organizations. Far other- wise: all its oracles and instructions in relation to these grave subjects find their warrant and authority in the divine law, under the inspiration of which it proclaims the Golden Rule as the sublimest illustration of the law of love. THE SUBORDINATE LODGE. Five or more members of the Order in good standing by which is meant that they are clear of the books of the Lodge, and free from any charge affecting char- acter may petition for authority to institute a Lodge. This petition must be addressed to the State, Territorial, Provincial or Colonial Grand Lodge within the geo- graphical limits of which it is proposed to locate the Lodge; if no Grand Lodge exists in such community, then the application must be addressed to the Grand Lodge of the United States; or, if in recess, to the M. W. Grand Sire. A Subordinate Lodge is the ele- mentary organization of the 'Order, and, as has already been said, is the active field of its labors. It is there that the initiate receives his first impressions of Odd- Fellowship. There the broad foundation upon which the whole superstructure rests is laid bare to him, and the brotherhood of man is taught as the inspiration of 376 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. Deity and the first law of nature. The lessons and instructions there rehearsed within his hearing will cre- ate in him new impressions, if he be not wholly callous and insensible to the voice of humanity and to the coun- sels of wisdom. The business of a subordinate Lodge is, however, chiefly administrative; its peculiar office is to provide the means to meet the claims of its sick and distressed members; to care for them properly during their illness; to bury the dead; to succor the widow, and to educate the orphan. In the faithful discharge of these duties it is ever watchful that no imposition is practised by unworthy members, and that exact obedi- ence is yielded to the laws. It is also sedulous in requiring and enforcing a high-toned morality and an upright ~w alk in life. Every Lodge enacts its own by- laws, which regulate the mutual obligations between it and its membership, and possesses exclusive control over its own funds within their legitimate application. BENEFITS. The by-laws of a Lodge may be regarded as a con- tract between the initiate and the Lodge; they define generally the reciprocal duties and obligations of each ; they prescribe the amount of the contribution levied upon each member to the common fund, and the amount of his claim upon it when sick or disabled. Ordinarily the tax does not exceed ten cents, nor does the benefit exceed four dollars per week. There are exceptional cases, where the. Lodge exacts a larger pre- mium and pays a larger weekly benefit; in but few instances, however, does the tax exceed twenty cents, or the benefits six dollars per week. These by-laws also provide the amount to be paid in case of the death of a member in good standing as a funeral benefit. This benefit is by no means uniform ; each Lodge for itself THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 377 prescribes the amount payable, subject not unfrequently to the State general law, which fixes a minimum rate. This benefit ranges from thirty dollars to five hundred or more; some Lodges impose a special tax upon each member of twenty-five or fifty cents, or one dollar, as a funeral benefit; in which cases, when the membership is large, as it usually is in cities, the benefit is correspond- ingly liberal. This fund is paid to the widow, if any; if not, to the nearest of kin of the deceased. The edu- cation of the orphaned children is also enjoined, and is faithfully carried out. Although the by-laws form a contract between the Lodge and its members, the parties are each also subject in their relations to all the laws of the Order; and, in the construction and enforcement of this contract, each must conform to all the duties and injunctions prescribed by the laws at large ; each must seek redress for grievance before the appointed tribunals of the Order, according to the forms prescribed, and these must be exhausted before the courts will intervene, if at all; and should jurisdiction be entertained of such grievances by the courts, it is believed that it would only be exercised to constrain the tribunals of the Order to a faithful administration of its laws. MEMBERSHIP. The general qualification for membership is prescribed in the following words: "No person shall be entitled to admission to the Order except free white males of good moral character, who have arrived at the age of twenty- one years, and who believe in a Supreme Being, the creator and preserver of the universe." To this general qualification there are two special and important addi- tions first, health of body and mind ; second, limita- tion as to age. The propriety and absolute necessity of these provisions will be apparent to every considerate 32* 378 THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. iniud, as a preventive of the great inequality and injus- tice which would otherwise result in the distribution of benefits. Every applicant for membership must there- fore candidly disclose his sanitary condition, for, if con- cealment should be practised, it will not only vitiate the contract between him and the Lodge, but, what is more serious and important to the initiate, it will subject him to arraignment, trial, and expulsion, and consequent disgrace. Fidelity on the part of the membership, not only to the laws and obligations of the Order, but to the laws of God, to the laws of the land, and to all the duties of citizenship, is strictly enjoined; good faith towards each other, and fair dealing with their fellow- men, are firmly yet fraternally enforced, and love for truth and honor, as cardinal virtues, is earnestly com- mended. This is Odd-Fellowship. A LEXICON OF PROPER NAMES IN THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS, WITH THEIR CORRECT PRONUNCIATION AND LEADING SIGNIFICATION. In words whose pronunciation cannot be mistaken, such as Abba, Bamah, Caleb, Ebed, &c., the accentuation only is marked ; but where it is difficult or doubt- ful, the correct pronunciation, spelled in italics, follows the word. Where words have various significations according to their juxtaposition in the original, the most obvious has been used, whether simple or metaphorical : this is deemed pre- ferable, as better adapted to the purpose for which the selection is intended, as well as to bring it within the limits of the " Text-Book." AARON, Ay'ron, lofty, mountain- ous. Abad'don, the destroyer. Abagtha, Ab-ag'-tha, father of the wine-press. Abana, Ab-ny'-naJi, stony. Abarim, Ab'-a-rim, passages. Ab'aron, strength. Ab'ba, father. Ab'da, a servant. Ab'di, my servant. Abdiel, Al>' -de-el, a servant of God. Ab'don, a servant. Abed-nego, A-bed'-ne-go, a servant of light. A'bel, vanity, vapor, mourning. Abel-beth-maachah, Ay' -bel-beth- ma-ay'-kah, mourning of the house of Maachah. A'bel-ma'im, the mourning of the waters. Abel-meholah, Ay'-bel-me-ho'-lnh, mourning of weakness,of sickness. Abel-mizraim, Ay'-bel-miz-ra'-im, the mourning of the Egyptians. A'bel-shit'tim, mourning of the thorns. A'bez, an egg, muddy. Abi, A'-be, my father. Abiah, Ab-i'-ah, the Lord is my father. Atii'ahil, the father of light or praife. Abi-albon, Ab-e-al'-bon, intelligent father. Ab'iam, the father of the sea. Abi-as'aph, a gathering or consum- ing father. Abiathar, Ab-i' -a-thar, excellent father. A'bib, green fruits, ears of corn. Abi'dah, father of knowledge. Abi'dan, father of judgment. Abiel, Ab'-e-el, God my father. Abiezer, Ab-e-e'-zer, father of help. Abi-ezrite, Ab-e-ez' -rite. Abigail, AV-e-gal, the joy of the father. Abi-gib'eon, the father of the cup, father of Gibeon. Abihail, Ab-e-hay'-il, the father of strength. Abi'hu, he is my father,or his father. Abi'hud, the father of praise or con- fession. Abijah, Ab-i'-jah, the will of the Lord. Abi'jam, father of the sea. Abilene, Ab-e-le'-ne, the father of the apartment, or of mourning. Abimael, Ab-be-may'-el, a father sent from God, my father conies from God. Abimelech, Ab-im' -me-lek, father of the king. Abinadab, Ab-in'-na-dab, father of 0( J 380 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. willingness, my father is a prince. Abinoam, Ab-in' -no-am, father of beauty or comeliness, my father is beautiful. Abiram, Ab-i'-ram, a high father, father of fraud. Abishag, Ab'-be-shag, ignorance of the father. Abishai, Ab-bish'-a-i, the present of my father, the father of the sacrifice. Abishalom, Ab-bish'-a-lom, the fa- ther of peace, the recompense of the father. Abishua, A b-bih' -u-a, father of sal- vation or of magnificence. Abishur, Ab'-be-shur, the father of the wall or of uprightness. Abital, Ab'-be-tal, the father of the dew. Abitub, Ab'-be-tub, father of good- ness. Abiud, Ab'-be-ud, father of praise. Ab'ner, father of light, the son of the father. A'braham, the father of a great multitude. A'bram, a high father, the father of eleration. Ab'salom, father of peace. Accad,^! k'-kad, a pitcher, a sparkle. Accho, Ak'-ko, a close, pressed to- gether. Aceldama, A-kel' -da-mah, the field of blood. Achaia, A-kay'-yah, grief, trouble. Achaicus, A-kay'-e-kus, a native of Achaia. Achan, Achar, A'-kan, A'-kar, he that troubles or bruises. Ach^or, Ak'-bor, a rot, bruising. Achim, A'-kim, preparing, confirm- ing, revenging. Achir, A'-ker, the brother's light. Achish, A'-kish, thus it is, how is this? Achmetha, Ak'-me-thah. Achor, A'-kor, trouble. Achsah, Ak'-sah, adorned, bursting of the veil. Achshafh, Akf-shaph,po\so'D,tTic^s, one that breaks, the brim of any thing. Achzib, Ak'-zib, liar, one that runs. Adadah, Ad'-a-daJi, the testimony of the assembly. Adah, Ay'-dah, an assembly. Adaiah, Ad'-a-yah, the witness of the Lord. Adaliah, Ad-a-ly'-ah, one that draws water, poverty, cloud, death. Ad'am, earthy, taken out of red earth. Adamah, Ad'-da-mah, red earth. Adami, Ad'-da-my, my man, red, earthy. A'dar, high, eminent. Adbeel, Ad'-be-el, a vapor, a cloud of God, a vexer of God. Ad'di, my witness, adorned, pass- age, prey. Ad'don, basis, foundation, the Lord. Adiel, Ad'-i-el, the witness of the Lord. Adin, Ad' -din, adorned, dainty. Adithaim, Ad-e-thay' '-im, assem- blies, testimonies. Adlai, Ad-lay'-i, my witness, my ornament. Ad'mah, earthy, red earth, Admatha, Ad'-ma-thah, a cloud of death, a mortal vapor Ad'nah, rest, testimony, eternal. Adona'i, my Lord. Adoni-bezek, Ad'-o-ne-bee'-zek, the lightning of the Lord, the Lord of Bezek. Adonijah, Ad-o-ny'-jah, the Lord is my master. Adonikam, Ad-o-ny'-kam, the Lord is raised, my Lord hath raised me. Adoniram, Ad-o-ny'-ram, my Lord is most high, the Lord of might and elevation. Adoni-zedek, Ad'-o-ne-zee'-dek, jus- tice of the Lord, Adoraim, Ad'-o-ray'-im, strength or power of the sea. Adoram, Ad'-o-ram, their beauty, their power, their praise. Adrammelech, Ad-ram' -me-lek, the cloak or glory of the king. Adramyttium, Ad-ra-mit' -te-wn, the court of death. AdTia,,Ay'-dre-ah,ih^ name of a city, which gives name to tne Adriatic sea, now the gulf of Venice. TEE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. A'dricl, the flock of God. Adullaui, Ad-ul -lam, their testi- mony, their prey, their ornament. Adum'mim, earthly or bloody things. .35ne'as, praised. Agabus, Afj'-r/a-bns, a locust, the feast of the father. Agag, Ay'-yay, roof, floor. A'gagite, of the race of Agag. Aga'pae, love-feasts. Agar. See Hagar. Agi'e, a valley, deepness. Agrippa, A-grip'-pdh, one who at his birth causes great pain. A'gur, a stranger, gathering. A'hab, the brother of the father. Aha'rah, a sweet brother, an odori- ferous meadow. Ahar'hel, anotherhost, another sor- row, the sleep of the brother. Ahasba'i, trusting in me, brother compassing. In Syriac, a brother of age. Ahasuerus, A-kas-u-e'-rus, prince, chief. Ahava, A-hay'-vah, essence, gene- ration. A'haz, one that takes and possesses. Ahaziah, A-ha-zy'-ah, possession, vision of the Lord. A'hi, my brother, my brethren. Ahiah, A-hy'-ah, brother of the Lord. Ahiam, A-hy'-am. brother of the mother, brother of the nation. Ahian, A-hy'-an, brother of wine. Ahie'zer, brother of assistance. Ahi'hud, a brother of vanity, a bro- ther of praise. Ahijah, the same as Ahiah. Ahikam, A-hy'-kam, a brother that raises up. Ahi'lud, a brother born. Ahim'aaz, brother of the council. Ahi'man, a brother prepared. Ahimelech, A-him' -me-lek, my bro- ther is a king. Ahimoth, A' -he-moth, brother of death. Ahin'adab, a willing brother, a brother of a vow, brother of the prince. Ahinoam, A-hin' -no-am, the beauty and comeliness of the brother. Ahi'o, his brother, his brethren. Ahio. See Achio. Ahira, A-hy'-rah, brother of ini- quity or of the shepherd. Ahiram, A-hy'-ram, brotherof craft, protection. Ahisamach, A-hw' -sa-mak, brother of strength or of support. Ahishabar, A-his'-sa-bar, brother of the morning or dew, brother of blackness. Ahi'shar, brother of a prince. Ahithophel, A-hit'-to-fel, brother of ruin or folly. Ahi'tub, brother of goodness. Ah'lab, which is of milk, is fat. Ah'lai, beseeching, sorrowing, be- ginning, brother to me. Aho'ah, a thistle, a thorn, a fish- hook, brotherhood. Aho'hi, a living brother, my thistle or thorn. Aho'lah, his tabernacle, his tent. Aholiab, A-ho'-le-ab, the tent or tabernacle of the father. Aholibah, A-ho' -le-bah, my tent and my tabernacle in her. Aholibamah, A-ho'-le-bay-mah, my tabernacle is exalted. Ahran. See Charan. Ahu'mah, a meadow of waters, brother of waters. Ahu'zam, their taking possession, vision. Ahuz'zah,po?session, apprehension, vision. Ai, or Hai, Ay'i, mass, heap. Ai'ah, a raven, a vulture, alas, where is it? Ai'ath, a hour. A'in, an eye, a fountain. Aioth, the game as Ai. Aja\Q-n,Ad'-ja-lon,a, chain, strength, Ak'kub, the print of the foot where any creature hath gone, supplant- ation. Alammelech, Al-am' -me-lek, God i king. Al'cimus, strong, of strength. Al'emeth, a hiding, youth, worlds, upon the dead. Al'emis, strength. Alexan'der, one that assists men, one that turns away evil. 382 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. Alexandria, Al-er-an'-d>-e-a, the city of Alexander. Alleluia, Al-le-lu' -yah, praise the Lord. A'lian, high. Al'lon, an oak. Allon-bachuth, Al'-toii-bak'-kuth, the oak of weeping. Almo'dad, measure of God. Al'mon, hidden. Al'mon-dib'lathaim, a hiding, a heap of fig-trees. Alpha, Al'-fah, the first letter of the Greek alphabet, marked A. Alpheus, Al-fe'-ui, a thousand, chief. A'inad, a people of witness, people everlasting. Am'alek, a people that licks up or uses ill. Amal'ekites, people descended from Amalek. A'mam,mother, fear of them, people. Amana, Am-ay'-iiah, integrity and truth. Amariah, Am-a-ry'-ah, the Lord says, the excellency of the Lord. Amasa, Aj>i-ay'-sah, a forgiving people, the burden of the people. Amaziah, Am-a-zy'-ah, the strength of the Lord. A'mi. See Amam. Am'rnah, my people. Ammi, the tame as Ammah. Ammihud, Am'-me-hud, people of praise. Amminadab, Am-min'-na-dab, prince of the people, a people that vows. Ammishaddai, Am'-me-gJiad'-day-i, the people of the Almighty. Arn'mon, the son of my people. Am'monites, a people descended from Benainmi, son of Lot. Am'non, faithful and true, foster- father. Amon, Ay' man, faithful, true. Am'orite, bitter, a rebel, a babbler. Amos, Ay'-mos, loading, weighty. Amoz, Ay'-moz, strong, robust. Amphipolis, Am-Jip' -po-lis, a city encompassed by the sea. Amplias, Am'-ple-as, large, exten- sive. Am'ram, an exalted people, b;itvl fuls of corn. Amraphel, Am'-ra-fef, one that speaks of hidden things or of ruin. Am'zi, strong, mighty. A'nab, a grape, a knot. Anah, Ay'-nah, one who answers or sings, poor, afflicted. Anak, Ay'-nak, a collar, an orna- ment. Anakims, An'-ak-im. See Anak. Anammelech, An-am'-me-lek, an- swer, song of the king. A'nan, a cloud, a prophecy. Ananias, An-a-tiy'-ag, the cloud of the Lord. Anathoth, An'-a-thoth, answer, affliction. Andrew, An'-drne, a stout and strong man. Avdrn'\cus,An-d:-on'-ne-ku8, a man excelling others. Aner, Ay'-ner, answer, strong, af- fliction. *An'na, gracious, merciful. An'nas, one that answers, that afflicts. An'tichrist. an adversary to Christ. Antioch, An'-te-ok, instead of a chariot. An'tipas, against all. Antipatris, An-te-pay'-tris, against his own father. Apelles, A-pel'-lees, to exclude, to separate. Aphek, Ay'-fek, a stream, vigor. Apollonia, Ap-po-lo' -ne-ah, perdi- tion. Apol'los, one that destroys and lays waste. Apollyon, A-pol'-le-on, one that ex- terminates or destroys. Apphia, Af'-e-ah, that is fruitful. Appii-forum, Ap'-pe-i-fo'-rum, a town so called from Appius Clau- dius, whose statue was erected there. Aquila, Ak' -ice-lah, an eagle. Ar, awakening, uncovering. Ara'bia, evening, a place wild and desert; mixtures, because this country was inhabited by different kinds of people. Ara'bian, an inhabitant of Arabia. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK 383 A'rad, a wild ass, a dragon. A' rain, magnificence, one that de- ceives. Ararat, Ar'-ra-rat, the curse of trembling. Araunah, A-raw'-nah, ark, song, curse. Ar'ba, the city of the four. Archelaus, Ar-ke'-lay-ns, the prince of the people. Archippus, Ar-kip'-pim, governor of horses. Arcturus, Ark-tew'-rns, a gathering together. Ard, one that commands. Areli, Ar-e'-lie, the light or vision of God. Areopagite, A-re-op'-a-gyte, belong- ing to the council culled Areo- pagus. Areopagus, A-re^-op'-a-gns, the hill of Mars ; a place where the magis- trates of Athens held their su- preme council. Aretas, A-re'-tas, one that is agree- able or virtuous. Ar'gob, a turf of earth, curse of the well. Ariel, Ay'-re-el, the altar, light, lion of God. Arimathea, Ar-re-ma-the'-ah, a lion dead to the Lord. Ramath,or Ra- mah, a city where Samuel dwelt. Arioch, Ar'-e-ok, long, your drunk- enness, your lion. Aristarchus, A-ris-tar' -kits, the best prince. Aristobulus,A-ris-a-uni,the field of repentance, city of comfort. Caphtor, Kaf'-tor, a sphere, a buckle, a hand, doves, those that seek and inquire. Cappadocia, Kap-pa-do' -she-a, in Hebrew, Caphtor. Carcas, Kar'-kas, the covering of a lamb. Carchemish, Kar' ke-mish, a lamb, as taken away. Car'mel, a circumcised lamb, har- vest, vineyard ol God. Carmelite. Kar' -me lyte, an inhabit- ant of Mount Carinel. Car'mi, my vineyard, the knowledge of the lamb of the waters. Car'pus, fruit, fruitful. Casiphia, Ka-ee-fy'-a, money, covet- ousness. Cas'tor, a beaver. Cedron, See'-dron, *>r Kee'-dron, black, sad. Cenchrea, Senk'-re-a, millet, small pulse. Cephas, See'-fas, or Kee'-fas, a rock or stone. Ce'sar. See Caesar. Cesarea, Ses-a-ree' -a. See Caesa- rea. Chalcol, Kal'-kol, who nourishes, sustains the whole. Chalrlea, Kal-dee'-a, as demons, as robbers. Chaldean, Kal-dee'-an, an inhabit- ant of Chaldea. Chaldees, Kal-deez', the same a* Chaldeans. Charran, Kar'-ran, a singing, the heat of wrath. Chebar, Ke'-bar, strength or power. Chedorlaomer, Ke'-dor-la-o'-mer, a? a generation of servitude. Chemarims, Kem'-a-rims, the name 1 of Baal's priests. Chemosh, Ke'-mosh, as handling, as taking away. Chenania, Ke-na-ny 1 '*ah, prepara- tion, rectitude of the Lord. Cherethims, Ker'-eth-ims, who cuts, tears away. Cherethites,.Ker'-e^-t'-&e-mi&, word, thing, bee, submissive. Da'gon, corn, a fish. Dalmanutha, Dai-ma-new' -thah, a bucket, leanness, branch. Dalmatia, Dai-may 1 -she-a, deceitful lamps, vain brightness. Damaris, Dam'-a-ris, a little wo- man. Damas'cus, a sack full of blood, a similitude of burning. Dan, judgment, he that judges. Dan'iel, judgment of God. Da'ra, generation, house of the shepherd, companion, race of wickedness. Darius, Da-ry'-us, he that inquires and informs himself. Da'than, laws, rites. Da'vid, beloved, dear. Deb'orah, a word, a bee. Decapolis, De-kap'-po-lis, a country containing ten cities. De'dan, their breasts, friendship, uncle. Dedanim, Ded'-an-im, descendants of Dedan. Del'ilah, poor, head of hair, bucket. Dc'mas, popular. Demetrius, De-me'-tre-us, belonging to Ceres, to corn. Der'be, a sting. Deuel, De-ew'-el, the knowledge of God. Diana, Dy-ay'-nah, luminous, per- fect. Di'bon, understanding, abundance of building. Di'bon-gad. abundance of sons, happy and powerful. Didymus, Did'-e-mus, a twin. Di'mon, where it is red. Di'nah, judgment, who judges. Din'habah, she gives judgment. Dionysius, Dy-o-nish'-e-us, divinely touched. Diotrephes,Z>i'-o'-re-/ee*,nourished by Jupiter. Do'eg, who acts with uneasiness, a fisherman. Dor, generation, habitation. Dor'cas, the female of a roe-buck. Do'than, the law, custom. Drusilla, Drew-sil'-lah, watered by the dew. Dumah, Dew'-mah, silence, resem- blance. Dura, Dew'-rah, generation, habi- tation. Easter, Ee's-ter, the passover, afeast of the Jews. E'bal, a heap, collection of old age. E'bed, a servant or laborer. Ebed-melech, Ee'-bed-me'-lek, the king's servant. Eben-ezer, Eb-en-ee'-zer, the stone of help. E'ber, one that passes, anger, wrath. Ebiasaph, E-by'-a-saf, a father that gathers together. Ed. witness. E'den, pleasure, delight. E'dom, red, earthy, red earth. E'domite, a descendant of Esau, of Edom. Edrei, Ed'-re-i, a very great mass, cloud, death of the wicked. Eg'lah, heifer, chariot, round. lEjr\aim,Eg-lay'-im, drops of the sea. Eg'lon, the same as Eglah. E'gypt, in Hebrew, Mizraim; that 388 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. binds or straitens, that troubles or oppresses. Egyp'tian, an inhabitant of Egypt. E'hud, he that praises. Ek'ron, barrenness, torn away. Efronites, inhabitants of Ekron. E'lah, an oak, oath, an imprecation. E'lam, a young man, a virgin, secret, an age. E'lamites, descendants of Elam. E'lath, a hind, strength, an oak. El-beth'el, the God of Bethel. El'dad, loved or favored of God. Elealeh, El-e-ay'-leh, ascension or burnt-offering of God. Eleazer, El-e-ay'-zar, the help or court of God. El-elohe-Israel, El-el-lto'-he-h'-ra,- el, God, the God of Israel. El-ha'nan, grace, gift, or mercy of God. E'li, E'li, my God, my God. E'li, the offering or lifting up. Eli'ab, God my father. Eliada, E-ly'-a-da, or E-le-ay'-da, the knowledge of God. Eliakim, E-ly'-a-kim, the resurrec- tion of God, God the avenger. Eli'am, the people of God. Eli'as. See Elijah. Eliashib, E-ly' -a-shib, the God of conversion. Eliathah, E-ly'-a-thah, thou art my God, my God comes. Eliezer, E-le-ee'-zer, help or court of my God. Elihoreph, E-le-ko'-ref, the God of winter, of youth. Eli'hu, he is m'y God himself. Eli'jah, God the Lord, the strong Lord. Eli'ka, pelican of God. E'lim, the rams, the strong, the stags, the valleys. Elimelech, E-lim' -me-lek, my God is king. Elioenai, El-e-o' -en-a-i, toward him are my eyes, my fountains, toward him is my poverty or misery. Eliphalet, E-lif '-fa-let, the God of deliverance, Eliphaz, E-ly' -fax, the endeavor of God. Elisabeth, E-liz'-a-leth, God hath aworn, the fulness of God. Eli'sha, salvation of God. Eli'shah, son of Javan; it is God, God that gives help. Elishama, E-lish'-a-mah, God hear ing. Elisheba, E-lish'-e-ba. See Elisa- beth. Elishua, El-e-thew'-ah, God is my salvation. Eliud, E-ly'-ud, God is my praise. Eli'zud, God is my strength, my rock. Elka'nah, God the jealous, the reed of God. Elmo'dam, the God of measure, of the garment. Elna'than, God has given. E'lon, oak, grove, strong. E'lul, cry, outcry. Eluzai, E-lu'-za-i, God is my strength. Elymas, El'-e-mas, in Arabic, a ma- gician. E'mims, fears of terrors, people. Emmaus, Em-may' -us,OTEin'-ma-u8 f people, despised. Em'mor, an ass. E'nam, a fountain or well, the eyes of them. En'dor, fountain or eye of genera- tion. Ene'as, laudable. En-eglaim, En-eg'-lay-im, the eye of the calves, of the chariots, of roundness. En-gedi, En-ge'-dy, fountain of the goat, of happiness. En-mish'pat, fountain of judgment. Enoch, Ee'-nok, dedicated, disci- plined, well regulated. Enon, Ee'-non, cloud, his fountain. Enos, Ee'-nos, fallen man, subject to all kind of evil. En-rogel, En-ro'-gel, the fuller's fountain. En-shernesb, Jn-s/*e'-mes&, the foun- tain of the sun. Epaphras,.E/>'-pa-/ra*, covered with foam. Epaphroditus, E-paf-ro-dy' '-<, a- greeable, handsome. Epenetus, E-pe-nee'-tin, laudable, worthy of praise. Ephah, Ee'-fah, weary, to fly as a bird. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 389 Ephes-dammim, E' -fez-daw' -mini, the effusion or drop of blood. Ephesians, E-fee'-ae-ans, the people of Ephesus. Ephesus,^y -fe-stis, desirable; chief city of Asia Minor. Ephphatha, Ef'-fa-tha, be opened. Ephraim, Ee'-fra-im, that brings forth fruit or grows. E'phraiinite,a descendant of Ephra- im. Ephratah, Eff-ray'-tah, abundance, bearing fruit. Ephrath, Ef-rath. See Ephratah. 'Ephra.lhite,Eff'-rnth-ite, an inhabit- ant of Ephratah, or a descendant from Ephraim. Ephron, Ef-fron, dust. Epicureans, Ep-e-kew'-re-ans, who gives assistance. Er, watch, enemy. Eras'tus, lovely, amiable. E'rech, length, health. Esaias, E-zay'-e-as. See Isaiah. Esar-haddon, E'-sar-had'-don, that binds, joy, or closes the point. E'aau, he that does or finishes. E'sek, contention. Esh-ba'al, the fire of the idol. Esh'col, a bunch of grapes. Eshtaol, Esh'-ta-ol, stout, strong woman. Eshtemoa, Esh-te-mo'-a, which is heard, the bosom of a woman. Es'li, near me, he that separates. Es'rom, the dart of joy, division of the song. Esther, Ess'-ter, secret, hidden. E'tara, their bird or covering. E'tham, their strength or sign. E'than, strong, the gift of the island. Ethanim,.M'-an-i'w,stron'-pe-a,in Hebrew, Gush, blackness; in Greek it sig- nifies heat. Ethiopians, Ee-the-o'-pe-ans, Afri- cans. Eubulus, Yew'-bu-lus, a prudent counsellor. Eunice, Yeio-ny'-xe, good victory. Euodias, Yew-o'-de-as, sweet scent. Euphrates, Yew-fray' -tees, that makes fruitful. 33* Euroc'lydon, the northeast wind. Eutychus, Yew'-te-kus, happy, for- tunate. Eve, living, enlivening. Evil-merodach, Ee'-vil-me-ro'-dak, or mer'-o-dak, the fool of Mero- dach, despising the bitterness of the fool. Ezekiel, E-see'-ke-el, the strength of God. E'zel, going abroad, distillation. Ezion-Geber, E'-zc-on-ye'-ber, the wood of the man, counsel of the man, of the strong. Ez'ra, a helper. Fe'lix, happy, prosperous. Fes'tus, festival, joyful. Fortuna'tus, happy, prosperous. Gaal, Oay'-al, contempt, abomina- tion. Gaash, Gay' -ash, tempest, over- throw. Gabbatha, Gab'-ba-tha, high, ele- vated. In Greek, lithostrotos, paved with stones. Ga'briel, God is my strength. Gad, a band, happy, armed and prepared. Gadarenes, Gad-a-ree'tis, surround- ed, walled. Gad'di, my happiness, my troop, a kid. Gaddiel, Gad'-de-el, goat of God, the Lord is my army. Gadites, Gad'-dites, descendants of Gad. Gaius, Gay'-e-us, lord, an earthly man. Galatia, Gal-ay' -she-a, white, of the color of milk. Galatians, Gal-ay' -she-ans, born in Galatia. Galbanum, Gal'-ba-num, a gum, sweet spice. Galecd, Gal'-e-ed, the heap of wit- ness. Galilee, G'-sha-i, their haste, sensuality or silence. Huz'zab, molten. Hymeneus, Hy-men-ee'-us, nuptial, marriage. Ib'har, election, he that is chosen. Ichabod, Jk'-a-bod, where is the glory? Iconium, [-ko'-ne-um. Id'do, his hand, power, praise, wit- ness. Idumea, Id-ew-mee'-a, red, earthy. Igdali'a, the greatness of the Lord. I'jon, look, eye, fountain. Illyrieum, Il-lir'-re-cum, joy, re- joicing. Im'lah, plenitude, repletion, circum- cision. Imman'uel, a name given to our Lord Jesus Christ, signifying God with us. Im'rah, a rebel, changing. India, fn'-de-n, praise, law. Iphedeiah, If-fe-day'-ah, or If-fe- dee'-ah, the redemption of the Lord. I'ra, city, watch, spoil, heap of I'rad, wild ass, heap of descents, of empire. Irijah, J-ry'-jah, the fear, vision, or protection of the Lord. Isaac, J'-zak, laughter. Isaiah, I-zay'-yah, or I-zay'-ee-ah, the salvation of the Lord. Iscah, Is'-kah, he that anoints, or covers. Iscariot, fs-kar'-re-ot, is thought to signify a native of the town of Iscarioth. Ish'bak, empty, forsaken, aban- doned. Ishbi-benob, Ish'-by-bee'-nob, he that sits in the prophecy, conver- sion. Ish-bosheth, Ish'-bo-theth, a man of shame. Ishmael. Inh' -ma-el, God who hears. Ishmaelites, Ish' -ma-el-iten, the pos- terity of Ishmael. Israel, h'-ra-el, a prince with God, prevailing with God, that wres- tleth with God. Israelites, le'-ra-el-ites, the pos- terity of Israel, or Jacob. Issachar, h'-ea-kar, price, reward. Italian, I-tal'-e-an, belonging to Italy. Italy, It'-ta-le, a Latin word that has its original from vituhts. or rim/a, "a, calf," or from a king called Itlu*. Ith'amar, island of the palm-tree, woe to the palm or change. Ithiel, Ith'-e-el, God with me, sign. Ithream, Ith'-re-am, excellence of the people. Iturea. It-u-ree'-a, which is guarded, a country of mountains. I'vah, iniquity. Jaalam, Jn-ay'-lam, hidden, jcung man. kid--. Jaazanhi, Ja-az-a-ny'-ah, whom the Lord will hear, the balnnce?, the arms. Ja'bal, which glides away .produces. Jab'bok, evacuation, dissipation. Ja'besh, dryness, confusion, shnme. Jabesh-gilead, Jay'-bevh-gil'-e-ad. Ja'bez, sorrow, trouble. Ja'bin, he that understands, he that builds. THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. 393 Jabneel, Jab'-ne-el, building, or understanding of God. Jachin, Jay' -kin, that strengthens. Ja'cob, he that supplants, the heel. Ja'el, he that ascends, a kid. Jah, the everlasting God. Ja'haz, dispute, going out of the Lord. Jahaza, Ja-hay'-za, the same as Jahaz. Jair, Jny'-er, my light, who diffuses light. Jairus, Jay'-e-rus, or Ja-i'-rus, is enlightened. Jiim'bres, the sea with poverty. James, the same as Jacob. Jan'na, who speaks, who answers, affliction. Jannes, Jan'-nez, the same as Janna. Japheth,/oy'-/efA, persuades, hand- some. Japhia, Ja-fy'-ah, which enlight- ens, groans. Ja'reb, a revenger. Ja'red, he that descends or com- mands. Ja'sher, righteous. Ja'son. he that cures, gives medi- cines. Ja'van, that deceives, clay. Ja'zer, assistance, he that helps. Je'bus, treads under foot, contemns. Jcb'usites, inhabitants of Jebns. Jeconi'ah, preparation or steadfast- ness of the Lord. Jeddi'el, the knowledge or joy of God. Jcdidah, Jed-dy'-dah, well beloved, amiable. Jcdidiah, Jed-e-dy'-nh, beloved of the Lord. Jeduthun, Jed-ew'-thiin, or Jed'-ew- thiiit, his law, who gives praise. Jegar-sahadutha, Je'-gar-at/-ha- dew'-tha, the heap of witnessing. Jehoahaz, Je-ho-ay'-haz, the prize or possession of the Lord. Jeho'ash, the fire or victim of the Lord. Jehoiachin, Je-finy'-a-kin, prepara- tion or strength of the Lord. Jehniada, Jp-hny'-a-dah, knowledge of the Lord. Jehoiakim,./e-^oy'--&((, the resur- rection of the Lord. Jehon'adab. See Jonadab. Jeho'ram, exaltation, rejected of the Lord. Jehosh'aphat, God judges. Jeho'vah, the incommunicable name of God, self-existing. Jehovah -jireh,?w'-8a-el, who de- mands his death. Methuselah, Me-thew'-ge-lah, he has sent his death. Mi'cah, poor, humble, who strikes, is there. THE ODD-FELLOWS' TEXT-BOOK. 397 Micaian, Ml-kay 1 '-e-ah, who is like to God '! the lowliness of God. Michaiah, My-kay'-e-ah, Michael, My'-ka-el, the same as Micaiah. Michal, My'-kal, who is it that has all ? who is perfect ? Michmash, Mik'-mash, he that strikes, the poor taken away. Midian, J/trf'-rfe-an,judgment,mea- sure, covering. Midianites, Mid'-de-an-ites, people of Midian. Mig'dol, a tower, greatness. Mig'ron, fear, a barn, from the throat. Mil'cah, queen. Mil'com, their king. Miletum, My -lee'. -turn, red, scarlet. Mil'lo, fulness, repletion. Min'ni, disposed, reckoned. Min'nith, counted, prepared. Miriam, Mir' -re-am, exalted, bitter- ness of the sea, mistress of the sea. Mis'gab, the high fort or rock. Mishael, JHish'-a-el, asked for, lent, God takes away. Misrephoth-maim,^/iY-re-/o<&-nu('- im, the burnings of the waters, furnaces where metals are melted. Mitylene, Mit-e-lee'-ne, purity, press. Mi'zar, little. Miz'pah, a sentinel, speculation, that waits for. Miz'peh, the same as Mizpah. Mizraim, Miz-ray'-im, tribulation, in straits. Mnason, Nay' -son, a diligent seeker, betrothing, an exhorter. Mo'ab, of the father. Moabites, Mo' -ab-ites, the descend- ants of Moab. Moladah, Mol'-a-daK, or Mo-lay'- dah, birth, generation. Molech, Mo'-lek, king. Moloch, Mo'-lok, the same as Molech. Mordecai, Mor'-de-cay, contrition, bitter, bruising; in Syriac, pure myrrh. Mori'ah, bitterness or fear of the Lord. Mosera, Mo-see'-ra, Moseroth, Mo- see'-roth, erudition, discipline, bond. 34 Mo'ses, taken out of tl B water. Mu'shi, he that touches, withdraws himself. My'ra, I flow, pour out, weep. Mysia, Minh'-e-a, criminal, abomi- nable. Naaman, Na-ny'-man, beautiful, agreeable, that prepares himself to motion. Naamathite, Na-ay' -ma-th'te, ?f Naamath. Naashon, Na-ash'-on, that foretells, serpent. Na'bal, a fool, senseless. Na'both, words, prophecies, fruits. Na'dab, free and voluntary gift, prince. Nagge, Nay' -gee, brightness. Naharai, Na-har' -ra-i, or Na-Jia- ray'-i, my nostrils, hoarse, hot. Nahash, Nay' -hash, snake, one that foretells, brass. Na'hor, hoarse, hot, angry. Nahshon, Nay'-shon. See Naashon. Na'hum, comforter, penitent, their guide. Na'in, beauty, pleasantness. Naioth, Nay'-e-oth, beauties, habi- tations. Naomi, Na'-o-my, beautiful, agree- able. Naphish, Nay' -fish, the soul, he that refreshes himself, that respires; in Syriac, that multiplies. Naphtali, N See'-er, hairy, demon, tempest, barley. Se'lah, a rook. Seleuoia, Se-lew'-she-a, beaten by waves, runs as a river. 34* 2A 402 THE ODD-FELLOWS TEXT-BOOK. Semei, Sein'-me-i, or Se-mee'-i, hear- ing, obeying. Se'neh, bush. Se'nir, a sleeping candle, a chang- ing. Sennacherib, Sen-nak'-ker-ib, bush of the destruction of the sword, of drought. Sephar, See' -far, a book, scribe; in Syriac, a haven. Sepharad, See-fay'-rad, a book, de- scending, ruling. Sepharvaiin, Sef-ar-vay'-im, two books, two scribes. Se'rah, lady of scent, song, the morning. Seraiah, Se-ra-i'-ah, or Se-ray'-yuh, prince of the Lord. Sergius, Ser'-je-ni, a net. Se'rug. See Saruch. Seth, put, who puts. Shaalbim, Shay-alb' -im, that be- holds the hearts. Shaaraim, Shay-a-ray'-im, gates, valuation, hairs, barley, tempests, demons. Shaashgaz, Shay-ash' -gaz, he that presses the fleece. Shadrach, Shay'-drak, tender nip- ple, tender field. Sha'lim, fox, fist, path. Shalisha, Shal'-e-shah, three, the third, prince. Shal'lecheth, a casting out. Shal'lum, perfect, peaceable. Shal'man, peaceable, perfect, that rewards. Shalmanezer, Shal-mn-nee' -zer, peace, tied, perfection and retri- bution. Sham'gar, named a stranger, he is here a stranger, surprise of the stranger. Sham'huth, desolation, astonish- ment. Sha'mir, prison, bush, lees. Sham'mah, loss, desolation, aston- ishment. Shammuah, Sham'-mew-ah, that is heard or obeyed. Shaphan, Shay' -fan, a rabbit, wild rat, their lip. Shaphat. Shay' -fat, a judge. Sharai, Shar'-a-i, or Sha-ray'-i, my lord, my song. Sharezer, Shar-ee'-zer, overse. <. the treasury. Sha'ron, his plain, field, song. Sha'shak, a bag of linen, the sixth bag. Sha'veh, the plain that makes equality. Shealtiel, She-aU -te-el, I have asked of God. Sheariah, She-a-ry'-ah,ga.te or tern pest of the Lord. She'ar-ja'shub, the remnant shall return. She'ba, compassing about, repose, old age. Shebaniah, Sheb-a-ny'-ah, the Lord that converts, that recalls from captivity, that understands. Sheb'na, who rests himself, who is now captive. Shechem, Shee'-kem, portion, the back, shoulders. Shedeur, Shee'-de-ur, or Shed'-e-ur, field, destroyer of fire. She'lah, that breaks, that undresses. Shelemiah, Shel-le-my' -ah, God is my perfection, my happiness. Sheleph, SJne'-lef. who draws out. Shel'omith, my happiness, my re- compense. Sheluiniel, Shel-ew-my'-el, happi- ness, retribution of God. Shem, name, renown, he that places. Shemaiah, Shem-a-i'-ah, or Shem- ay'-y