z o m m 2 O m 2 HV 5297 IB o X > o z CO BANCROFT LIBRARY THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA INDEPENDENT ^ampionj of femperance: INSTITUTED FOR THE PROMOTION tfvmperantf, gxmhm m& $hdi& Jpdtam (OMl'll.KD AND INSTITI"! KD BY GEORGE BLOOKFIELD TAYLOR, OOIWATOH AND I'orNDKi: or TDK "CHAMPIONS OF TDK BED rwoss,"' IN illK UNITED STATES OF AMEBIC A. ••A DE s.\ PERE. SAN III WVISC©, CAL. BTI \ M BOO K \ N D .10 B P R I I L 8 7 2 . L J .n, v/u ■;;" '£&6?JL— INDEPENDENT ong of femprance INSTITUTED FOR THE PROMOTION ipaantt, Jmto taa& SfmdeA ftefana. COMPILED AND INSTITUTED BY GEORGE BLOOMFIELD TAYLOR, [GINATOR AND FOUNDER OF THE "CHAMPIONS OF THE RED THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. CROSS, IN AUDE SAPERE.' SAN FRANCISCO, CAL. T, STEAM BOOK AND JOB PRINTER, No. 532 Cl*y Street, opposite Leidosdorff Stn , f. 1872. /saq r ORDER OF BUSINESS. 1. Opening Ceremonies. 2. Roll Call of Officers. 3. Reading the Journal. 4. Reports of Investigating Committees. 5. Balloting for Candidates. 6. Initiatory Ceremonies. 7. Intermission of Ten or Fifteen Minutes. 8.* Propositions for Membership. 9. Reports of Investigating Committees. 10. .Reports of Special Committees. 11. Report of Executive Committee. 12. Report of Finance Committee. 13. Report of Trustees. 14. Report of Health Committee. 15. Communications. 16. Unfinished Business. 17. New Business. 18. Good of the Order. 19. Has any Member violated their obligation 1 20. Closing Ceremonies. LIST OF ELECTIVE OFFICERS. 1. Eminent Commander. 2. Eminent Councillor. 3. Worthy Vice Councillor. 4. Captain of the Host. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Worthy Secretary, Worthy Treasurer. Senior Champion. Junior Champion. Worthy Sentinel. LIST OF APPOINTED OFFICERS. 1. 2. Worthy Chaplain. Angel of Life. 3. .Mistress of ( Vremonies. 4. Angel of Death. Rnmseller. 6. The three Victims. 7. [ntruder. S Z+ **+'£> Jndepcndcnt |/mmpioi« of |empenmc^ OPENING CEREMONIES. E. C. Companions all hail ! The hour has at length arrived for our labors to begin, it is high time that this Encampment should be at work. The great fields ot 1 and political reform are already ripe for the har- . A thousand desolated homes, and thousands of desolated hearts speak to us in the urgent, unmistakable language of human woe and human agony. Our work >r time auy which ingress or egress can be had to or from, this Encampment Permit no one to enter or pass you without all those qualifications by which you may know them to be worthy Companions in good stand- ing. J. C. Your commands shall be strictly obeyed, Senior Champion. E. C. Captain of the Host, it is now your duty, to proceed at once to satisfy yourself, that all now within this Encampment, are in every respect worthy Compan- ions. To satisfy yourself of this, you will proceed at once to the discharge of this duty. C. of H. I have applied the legitimate tests and find all corect and entitled to remain. E. C. It is well, Eminent Councillor, will you repeat in the hearing of these Companions, the motives which prompted this organization amongst men. E. Councillor. To shield the innocent ; to save the tempted; to encourage the struggling; to decently bury the dead, and provide for the living; to claim protection at the hands of the law, and emphatically urge that claim at the ballot-box. E. C. You are correct, Eminent Councillor, higher motives than these, can inspire no heart on earth, Wor- thy Chaplain, upon entering upon any labor for the pro- motion of human excellency, in whom should we put our trust? W. C. In God. E. C. You are correct Worthy Chaplain, as goodness and mercy, and truth and justice, cometh down from the father of lights, you will therefore Companions, give attention while the Worthy Chaplain invokes the Divine blessing. W. C. Almighty God, Maker and Ruler of all things, we most humbly implore Thy Divine aid and assisi- ance in all our works and labor of love. Thou art familiar with all our plans and purposes; Thou dost com- prehend the motives of our hearts, in thus uniting our- >gether in our present capacity. We beseech The. y us wisdom and discretion, and may the labors of our hands and hearts be productive of per- manent and lastiug good. Advance, we most humbly implore Thee the interests and aims of this noble Order, niav its precepts and principles become the watch-word of all our people, until the blighting curse of intemper- ance, with all its dark train of kindred evils shall be banished forever from our land. God of infinite love and tender mercy, we implore Thee, look compassionately upon the thousands and tens of thousands who are cru- elly and unjustly Buffering, in pain and penury, on >unt of intemperance, and may the day of their deliv- erance speedily dawn, and the cruel weight of their sorrow be forever removed. These and all other bless- ings we meekly, yet hopefully ask for the Redeemer's — Amen. E. C. Companions, attention ! Form ranks ! For- ward march ! * # ::: ' *. (1) ODE. Hark! hear the trumpet sound, Calling the brave; Firm In arts with true resolves, . Our kindred to save. Liiikrd l>y OOI sacred vows, Our cause speeds aloug; Liberty] lii>< a 11m eharofl i>mlong! with alluring power, ive, Orwhing the manly hearts Of thousands w 1 reaeoe them, Mt to save; On we march, on we march, tit t'> save. 6 Plant high the Sacred I Round it we bow; Hope cheers our gladdened hearts, Saored our vow. Now we our toils begin; Our labors pursue. Valiant men, comrades all, Noble and true. E. C. Halt ! Right face, right dress ! * * 8 * (2). F. Shall woman's wrongs never be redressed, and shall the home of love and paternal affection, forever be cursed by the blighting crime of intemperance ? M. No, never! never ! not if God is just, and there remains true hearts with the vows of a Champion of Temperance upon them i ! E. C. Companions all together * * * * (3). I now declare this Encampment opened for the transaction of its legitimate business, during which time let every Companion observe order, and proceed with the busi- ness of the session as expeditiously as possible # * * * (4) INITIATORY CEREMONIES. E. C. Worthy Secretary are there any candidates elected to become Champions ? W. S. There are. (or, there is not, as the case may be.) E. C. Senior Champion, what constitutes an En- campment of Champions ? S. C. A body of faithful men and women bound to- gether by mutual obligations to overthrow the usurpa- tions of strong drink, and to exercise among themselves the principles of charity and brotherly love. E. C. You are correct Senior Champion, are the ranks full \ S. C. There is still room for the worthy, Eminent Commander. E. C. There still being room, my Eminent Council- lor will repair to the ante-chamber, and there ascertain if any one is in waiting to take upon them the vows and obligations of a Champion of Temperance. Junior Champion, pass the Councillor ::: * * • (5) Eminent Commander, I have made the necessary in- <>n and find in waiting , who is desirous of joining our ranks. E. C. It is well, the Worthy Secretary and Vice- Councillor will now proceed to institute the proper — and make the accustomed investigation, and re- it once. ° ° ° ° (G) W. S. My friend, through the good opinion formed i, by members of this Encampment, you are elected to become a Companion with them. But before pro- log for the honors, you will please, to the best of r knowledge, answer the following questions : Do you believe in the existence of a Supreme being to whom you are individually responsible ? C. I do. W. 8. Have you ever been seriously afflicted with Uowing diseases : use of the lungs? C. No. ase of the hearl I a No. been afflicted with 1 its or spasms, and when T C. 8 Were you ever a member of this organization, and if so how did you lose your membership 1 C. Will you take upon yourself a solemn and binding obligation, to do all in your power, to suppress by law, the liquor traffic ? C. I will. W. S. If you are now a voter, or ever become a vo- ter, will you do so much for the right, as to ignore mere party proclivities, in order to elect a thorough temperance man to office ? C. J will. W. S. Do you consider yourself in good health at this time ? C. You will please tarry until we make our report ° ° (7). Eminent Commander, the questions have been satisfactorily answered. E. C. It is well, Captain of the Host, you will ac- company the Mistress of Ceremonies, to the ante-cham- ber, and there proceed with dispatch to duly and truly prepare the Candidates for the solemnities of initiation. i.'C- -.'.'■ i'J /Q\ J. C. Eminent Commander there is a violent alarm at the inner gate. E. C. Companion Junior attend to the alarm, and report to me. J. C. Eminent Commander, it is the Captain of the Host, having in company a stranger who is desirous of taking on himself the obligations of a champion. E- C. It is well, admit him if worthy. J. C* Captain of the Host, who have you in charge ? C of H A new recruit who desires to unite with as in all our laudable undertakings. J. C. Have all the questions been readily and satis- factorily answered? t H. They have. J. V. Do you judge the party worthy and well qualified '. of A. I do. J. C. My friend, you come here do you, of your own free will aud accord ? C. I do. J. C. Captain of the Host, you now have my per- son to pass. You have a difficult and somewhat dangerous journey before you, be cautious of this stranger; have a firm heart and steady nerve and all will be well — advance! ! C. of H. My friend, the great lessons of life are learned most effectually by contrasting one thing with another. Practical demonstration is a great teacher; mere theories, are many times shivered to atoms by coining in contact with the stern realities of practical fife. Life in earnest and real all the time; we are too a deceived by mere appearance; we too often judge superficially ; a man of rough uncouth exterior, may notwithstanding this, have beating in his breast a true and noble heart — while the man of opulence, may be a M»i did miserable miser; men are not to be valued for what they seem to be, hut for what they really are ; ymi have lived long enough in this world to know the road to fame, wealth, and honor, is fre- quently beset by difficulties add dangers \ early life is very much like the path we are now pursuing; you will ob- e thai the road we are now traveling is smooth and delightful; so the days of our youth and childhood; but as tl of maturity come upon us, the way of lite — like this way — becomes rough and uncertain — e our course, — here and there and all 10 along the way of our wanderings we find obstructions and hindrances to retard us ; but come on, my friend, put all confidence in me, and we shall by and by get rid of this terrible desert. We must ascend this mountain and then we may hope for smoother ways by and by. There, thank fortune, we are over safe. We are now journeying through the dark valley of tribulation — and the night comes on apace ; this is a dark and gloomy wilderness, where the evil and the vicious congregate, * * * ° (9). Mercy, what was that ? I am afraid our pathway is beset with unusual danger, but here comes some one, his very look denotes treachery ; we will go in this direction. Intruder. Who comes here, who comes here this terrible ni^ht ? C. of H. A friend seeking safety within the Encamp- ment of the Champions of Temperance. Intruder. I lay tribute on all who pass this road — now your money or ) our life. C. of H. Hold, dont strike, this friend of mine is poor — has nothing to give or bestow, but I, as his friend, will put this in thy hand if that will suffice. Intruder. Well, avaunt, we may meet again. C. of H. Well, now come on my friend ; dear me, what a terrible night, that thunder is indicative of a storm ; put all confidence in me and you are safe; rain and darkness both upon us ; is it possible we have lost our way , this wood seems completely hedged up, and here we are; O, for one friend in this terrible dark hour; ho! There I see some one approaching; I will hail them ; ho, stranger, whither bound? A. of L. I am no stranger, I linger upon the pathway of the tempted, I gladden the hearts of the disconsolate, I lead the blind in a way they have not known, and in every emergency succor the needy and the distressed. 11 C. ofH. Then stay, a worthy object is at hand, take charge of my poor friend here, and safely lead him out of the meshes of this deep, tangled wild woods. A. of L. My friend, but for my timely intervention you might never have succeeded in getting clear of the ac- cumulating difficulties which now beset you ; but when the strong arm of man is sometimes powerless to de- liver, the superior will and ingenuity of woman, has achieved a mighty conquest ; so I will now take charge <>i vou, and if Providence favor, the gates of our en- campment may yet be reached in safety. Through the break in yonder mountain, is a secret passage with which I am familiar — and up through that we must go ; it is somewhat dark and noisome, but he that humbleth him- self shall be exalted ; well, here we stand at the en- trance ; it is a low underground passage — so stoop low my friends, they that humble themselves shall be ex- alted, ;: :: ° (10). Well, we are now free from every obstacle, and we shall proceed upon our journey. Ah, we are now coming within the lines of the encamp- ment,, arid the songs of welcome are greeting us. Welcome, welcome, weary pilgrim, Wandering through life's wilderness. Here are friends, and hearts to greet thee And relieve thy sore distress; Can we trust, and trust thee ever, Wilt thine arm our rights defend ? Gan'st no wave of sorrow sever. Faithful true and constant friend? Hear'st thou not the voice of hunger? 1 1 r'st thou not the shriek of woe? Angry passions without number, Wreck the wretched heart below. Strike for freedom, strike in earnest, i to sh. ,ithe thy sword again, 'Till thy deadliest foe is vanquished, And thy glorious vict'ry gained. o o o . (ll ) 12 A. ofL. Eminent Commander, I chanced to discover this unfortunate friend, bewildered and lost, seeking to attain human excellency, I have brought him here, and you now find him in a proper position to lake upon himself the duties and obligations of a Champion <>t* Temperance. OBLIGATION. E. C. My friend the obligation you are about to re- peat, we have all taken, and let me assure you that there is nothing in it, to prevent any true man or woman from assuming it. With this assurance on my part are you willing to proceed? C. I am. E. C. You will then repeat after me the following — when I repeat my name do you repeat yours and then follow me. I , in the presence of God, do hereby, by and hereon, most solemnly promise and de- clare, that I will not directly or indirectly, give aid and comfort to the traffic in alcoholic stimulants as a bev- erage ; I will not myself, use at any time, as a beverage, any kind of spirituous liquors, so long as I remain a mem- ber of this order, by which I mean wines, cider or beer — after they have passed through a process of vinous fer- mentation ; I furthermore promise that in case I need assistance in whatever business I may be engaged, I will always give a Champion of Temperance the preference, provided they are willing to give their services as rea- sonable as others, if and needing no assistance myself, I will assist him or her to obtain the same. I futhermore promise, that when official proclamation is made by the Eminent Commander, that within the district to which I belong a worthy companion has died, to 13 I will within one week from that time pay into the awry, of the encampment to which I may belong, tln> sum of one dollar, in gold or silver coin, to be dis- ied according to the direction of the Executive Com- mittee. And I furthermore promise, that whenever practicable I will exert all my personal influence at the ballot box, ect to office, competent temperance men, without Bpect To party ; and furthermore, nothing pertaining t 1 1* - Becret work of this order shall ever be revealed y me to anyone, in any way, who is not a worthy member of the same, under the penalty of being pub- lished to the world as a deceiver, and a liar among all men. To the true and faithful performance of all which I will most steadfastly adhere — so help me God, and beep me true and faithful in the due performance of the s;uin'.'' Captain of the Host, you will now proceed to impart further light to our friend. ° * (11.) J. C. Eminent Commander, there is an unusual alarm at the inner gate. EL C. Attend to the alarm and report at once. J. C. Eminent Commander, it is the Eminent Coun- cillor with important dispatches to head-quarters. H. C. Admit him. Ho, Eminent Councillor, what now, why that anxious look? K. Conn. Eminent Commander, I bring you sad tidings. E. C. Yes — sad tidings, what now — explain your- self. B. Conn. Eminent Commander, a once worthy com- panion o! this Encampment has fallen. E. I '. Sai fallen I is that possible? E. Conn. Even so, Eminent Commander, he now ii his tent upon the eauipas, in the last sad agouies ot despair and death. 14 E. C. Eminent Councellor, repair forthwith to the tent of the fallen companion, render him every assist- ance in your power, and permii our new friend to ac- company you, the example of inconstancy may be of benefit to him in years to come. Victim. O, the curse of rum, the curse of rum ! it has embittered all my life ; tore from my bosom all my friends. O, the horrors of this dreadful hour ! ! I have beggared my family ; I have broken my vows ; I have ruined my soul ! rum, thou demon — thou demon ! I'm mad — I'm dying, heaven have mercy upon me. E. Coun. Companion, can we do anything for you ? Vic. Yes — be kind enough to bring me a little water. E. Coun. Let us grant his request, he was a noble companion — true, and generous, and manly to a fault ; but alas ! alas ! how fallen, how fallen ; the tempter came upon him and he was too weak to resist and fell, as thousands have fallen before him. But higho — what have we here, a feast after a famine? ° * * * (12.) M. of C. All hail, Eminent Councillor, I greet thee, seat your friend with yourself, and enjoy the hospitali- ties of this social party. We have heard of the wan- derings, and trials through which your friend has passed, and after so long a fast a feast surely will be acceptable. Come friends, fill up the glasses. We will eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die ; and now permit me to enquire for the benefit of all present, who in God's vast universe was it, that first recommended wine to man as a beverage. A. of D. It was me; I am the bright angel, that first gladdened the heart of man with sparkling wine ; I bring health and joy, and wealth, and — A. of L. Avaunt ! lying sorcerer, avaunt ! thou bring- est nought but demoralization, poverty, crime and death. 15 Thou art a refugee from God, au outcast from heaven. Thy breath is a burning sirocco. Thy presence an un- mitigated curse. Thy promises and pretences, are a refuge of lies ; and murder and famine linger upon thy footsteps. Avaunt ! thou vile deformity, begone ! Now Companions proceed with thy feast. * * * * (12) E. C. Senior Champion, what is the occasion of all this confusion? S. C. The hospitalities of a social party, I believe, Eminent Commander. E. C. Senior Champion, where is my Eminent Coun- cillor f S. C. On an errand of mercy to a sick Companion, Eminent Commander. E. C. It is well. Senior Champion we must see to it that better order is observed in this Encampment. 8. C. It shall be so ordered, Eminent Commander. E. Coun. I guess now, my friend, we had better pro- cure the water for our sick Companion; I trust that no evil has befallen him in our absence. * :: (14) Ho ! Companion, here's the water ; alas ! my 'friend, we are too late, we are to late ; death has stilled the heart of our Companion forever. We are verily guilty touching the death of our Companion. A drink of \va- migbt have saved his life. O, that we had not for- got ten our mission, and turned aside to festivities and mirth ; let us start at once; up to head-quarters and make uur report (VI) Ah ! who comes here, other victim-, doubtless blighted by rum. K. >. " Yon pay me that bill ; I'll learn you to drink at my place and not pay uj» ; you old ragamuffin ; don't you Bay anything, you arc worse than he isj you will dm, aud cry over him, and shield him when all others forsake him; leave him, I say. 16 W. 0, sir, have compassion on ns; don't embitter more and more every well spring of joy. My pom- wretched husband is the victim of a terrible vice. You, and others such as you, have dealt out to him the tic- cursed poison, until he now has no health, no home, no money, and no friend but me ; our children are now cry- ing for bread ; my heart and my home are so desolate; you have taken from us our last dollar, and you seek to drive us to utter despair; have you no compassion, no heart to feel 1 R. S. Well, I want my money; he owes the bill, and I'll have it, or he goes to the station house. Victim. Give me a little time ; don't press me, I'll make it all right with you, when I'm able to work ; you have now everything in the shape of money I ever had ; don't press me. R. S. Come along, I say ; I'll fix you ; come with me. * * * ° (14) A. of L. Let him alone, you whisky seller ; you stand in your infernal den to deceive and destroy; no condi- tion of life is safe with you ; you blight the hopes of the innocent, lead the virtuous into paths of ruin, rob home of every charm, take the bread from starving children, and in your hellish derision, laugh at the tears and pray- ers of the heart-broken wife ; God will one day wipe from the very earth such vile, heartless monsters as you represent; your presence everywhere is a plague, and your very look, seduction and death; come, my friend, with me, and I will restore you to a home of gladness and peace. E. Coun. Alas ! my friend, you see the work of this vile destroyer; there is no security for life, so long as his hateful presence encumbers the earth ; but we must make our report. Eminent Commander, our fallen brother is dead. 17 E. C. Is it possible such are the fruits of inconstancy; I trust Eminent Councillor, you and your friend were in time to faithfully minister to his necessities in his last hours. E. Coun. Eminent Commander, our newly instructed Companion, as well as myself, are truly guilty concern- ing our fallen Companion; his last dying request, was a drink of water ; my friend here started to his relief; on our way we were invited and tempted to join in festivi- ties and mirth, and when we at length returned with the coveted beverage to the tent of our fallen Companion, Alas ! Alas ! he was dead. »E. C. Your experiences in this matter, do not differ materially from the experiences of mankind generally. We ate apt, too frequently, to forget the weightier mat- ters of life, that we may indulge in its frivolities and amusements, The sick bed is neglected, that we may participate in life's enjoyments. Let us educate our- selves, Companions, so as to make as much as possible, an equal distribution of our time, that all demands upon us in. iv be faithfully met, and no promise or obligation i. The worthy Captain of the Host, will now present the candidates to the Senior Champion for further instruction. < . of II. Senior Champion, I am directed by the Eminent Commander to present to you this Candidate lor further instruction. ( \ Friend, the ceremonies through which you have voluntarily passed this evening, are intended to convey our mind some useful lessons, your application, elec- . and initiation into this order, is to my mind, a 8uf- ij guarantee that your friends and neighbor! I confidence in you. and respect you, for be ye well aware that without this primary qualification you never eould 18 have gained admittance here. In the anti-chamber you were :: * to impress you more forcibly with the fact, that darkness and uncertainty envelop every new enterprise in life. In entering upon your journey, you placed yourself under the guidance and control of a friend, which is intended to strengthen your confidence in man. At length the smooth and pleasant way became rough and tortuous, which most clearly illustrates the fact, that new obligations generally beget new difficult- ies, and he, who amidst the opposing forces in this world, seeks to rise, will find his road to honor, wealth, and fame, a rough and difficult one. Storms and tempests will gather around us, and nought but a fixed resolution, and untiring energy, will enable us at last to obtain the coveted prize. Your experience also demonstrated anoth- er fact, that many times in life's last emergency, when the heart grows faint, and every hope of success seems to forsake us, some kind angel of our path and life, will lead us by a way which we have not known, delivering us from every difficulty, and placing within our hands the very prize we so eagerly coveted. There is a il Prov- idence my friend that shapes our ends;" God gives suc- cess to those who are ambitious to help themselves. At our altar you took upon yourself a solemn and binding obligation to abstain from all that will intoxicate, so long as you remain a member of this Order, and let us hope that that may be during your sojourn on earth. An instance of inconstancy on the part of a fellow Companion next occurred, and you accompanied the Eminent Councillor to the bedside of the writhing vic- tim of intemperance ; then started on the noble mission of administering to his relief; was tempted to join in festivities and mirth, and when you at last returned with the coveted beverage, death had silenced the th robbings of that sad heart forever. As you passed forward to 19 make your report at head-quarters, au intrusion occurred; a greedy rumseller, bent upon driving his ruined victim to the very darkness of dispair. He was rescued by the same agency, which lifts many a poor struggling soul up from the very jaws of hell. And at length you now come to me for further instruction. Let me then ad- monish you my friend to be true and noble; rise above the mere political creeds or preferences, for the sake of right, that truth and justice may be exalted to the pin- nicle of honor. Seek to emulate the virtues of the good and the true, with your presence, your wealth, your in- fluence ; seek to overthrow the usurpations of wicked men, thus leaving behind you a monument purer than Parian marble, which shall stand entire, when every temple dedicated to Bacchus, and to sin, shall crumble down into one indiscriminate mass of ruins. I sliall now proceed to instruct you in the private, or unwritten work of this Order. Desiring to visit this or any other Encampment of the Independent Champions of temperance, when in regular session, you approach the outer door and give this sign. • • • ° (15) This will give you admittance to the ante-chamber, you will there clothe yourself in appropriate regalia, then approach the inner door, and give this sign. • ° ° ° (16) This will gain you admittance to the Encampment. You approach the center of the hall, face the chief officer, and Balute him thus ° * * ° (17) He will recognize e by answering thus, # * ° * (18), you will thru take your Beat Should you desire to retire dur- ing the session, you will make that wish known thus, * * (1!)). You will thm be permitted to depart. I laptain of the Host, with my assistance will now instruct you in the ° ° ° *(20). In addition to this ire will confer upon you the public test, which is made thus, • ° • • (21). If a member of this order should 20 notice the same, they will answer thus, ::: ° ° :;: ' (22), We will now confer upon you the sign of distress, which sign is made by persons needing immediate as- sistance and is given thus • ° ° ° (2:3) Whenever or wherever you see this sign made go at once to the par- ties and seek to relieve them. In the night season when signs could not be seen, we have; a distress word which is, # * * * (24). Whenever or wherever you hear that word, go immediately to the parties, and if possible give them whatever aid they may need. The Captain of the Host will now assist you in the practical workings of these private instructions. * ::: ' ° ° (25) C. of H. Eminent Commander, our friend having received the Senior Champion's charge, and private instruction, and having worked his way thus far to the end of his journey, now comes to you for the closing ceremonies of initiation. E. C. Tradition informs us that when Titus went up against Jerusalem to invest and overthrow it, that he sought most of all to annihilate the people of God — and thus destroy utterly the religion of the Jews. The details of that terrible siege stand out boldly upon the pages of history, the overthrow of the Jews was com- plete, eleven hundred thousand perished by sword and by famine, and the remnant was scattered to the four winds of heaven. Tradition informs us that a small company of the sons of Rechab, in order to perpetuate a vow which they had made, to use no wine — which vow was on record in the holy writings, and also to protect one another against the encroachments of the heathen, had banded themselves together in a company known as the Champions of Temperance. This small company of valiant men determined at every sacrifice to escape from the city, and carry away with them for the benefit of future generations, a copy of the holy 21 writings. And so it was, when the Temple was in flames, and the fiery element was consuming and invad- ing the holy of Indies, these self-sacrificing Champions, through a private passage, gained access to the secret vault of the Temple, and there amid the crashing of timbers and the angry war of the fiery elements, broke open the Ark of the Covenant — took therefrom a copy of the Jewish Scriptures, and although nearly suffocated by the sulphurious smoke that now poured down upon them, they eventually found egress from the ruined Temple, hearing with them a preserved copy of the word of God. In after years, a golden sword was sus- pended from the neck of every new initiate, that it might serve to remind him, of the vows he had taken, and also the wonderful preservation of that most wonderful rev- elation of God to man, which is the foundation of all human hope, and human progress, thus you will have placed on your neck, this golden emblem of our great brotherhood • • ° ° (26). E. C. Senior Champion, what is the occasion of all this confusion ? Is there mutiny in the Encampment? S. C. It arises from the fact, Eminent Commander, that the Companions feel as though you had conferred on the newly initiated Companion, a more costly jewel than they themselves were permitted to wear, and thus the discord and contention which has arisen in the En- campment. Companions come to order ! Is your eye evil because mine is good? Can I oot do as I like with my own ? does not the law say that the first shall be the last, and the last shall be the first? Was not the golden ring placd upon the finger, and the robe upon the shoulders of tin- returning prodigal .' Are you disposed to sup- preSfl the unholy spirit of envy, and to do unto otli.-is i WOtlld have them do unlo vmi ? 22 All. Is that the law ? E. C. It most certainly is the law. All. Of course then we are satisfied. E. C. Companions pVoceed to form the mystic cir- cle, * * * * (27), the Worthy Chaplain will now advance and perform his duty, ::: * * * (28). W. C. Almighty God, the bountiful giver of every good gift, we humbly implore Thee to look in infinite compassion upon us here assembled. Seal with Thy sacred benediction, the vows we have taken, and with Thy special favor, bless and prosper him upon whom we now confer the last obligation of our Order, and in' the end of life's tiresome journey, bring us all into Thine everlasting Kingdom for our Redeemer's sake. Amen. E. C. And now in the name of all those who have fallen victims to the cruelties and usurpations of strong drink, in the name of truth and virtue; in the name of this great brotherhood, and in order to carry out, and subserve the purpose of its institution, do I now consecrate you to a life of benevolence, and brotherly love, arise Champion of Temperance and go forward on thy mission of mercy and love. Companions, form single ranks — to the right file — forward march, * * * * (29). Now, Champion thou art free, Lover of Liberty, Our cause defend; Now in thy generous might, We all our hearts unite; Pledged to defend the right, Our cause advance. Fair hands and trusting hearts, Zeal to thy soul imparts, Champion and friend. Never their trust betray, Lif<; is too short to repay, All thou shal't have this day If faithless prove. 23 God of our Father land Bless now this social band, Our cause defend. May Peace her mantle spread, Over each Champion's head; Thus by Thee ever led Our conquest sure. E. C. We will now take our intermission of ten (or fifteen minutes. CLOSING CEREMONIES. E. C. It is now my will and pleasure that the servi- ces of this present session close. Worthy Secretary, you will report the funds received this evening and from whom. (Secretary reports.) It is well. And now com- panions, we go forth into the world to resume its toils and responsibilities, and perchance ere we meet again death may have invaded our ranks and the joyous heart ot to-night may be stilled in the grave forever. L. i us remember the vows and obligations which rest upon us, and so well may we act our parts in the great drama of life, as to be gathered at last into that eternal encampment on high, where all our troubles cease, and win* re perpetual life, and love, shall gladden and bless us forever, and forever ; 1 now declare the present session closed. CEREMONY OF INSTALLATION. E. C. Worthy Companions, it is a flattering c<>m- plimenl to you that you thus stand before me elected as \mi are to fill the responsible offices to which the suff- rages of your companions have elevated you : y<>u will neat surely not bet ray that confidence] your own lelf 24 respect will prompt you to use all diligence, that you may meet the expectations of your companions, in your exaltation, and fill with honor and satisfaction to your- selves, the important positions of trust into which you are now about to be inducted. Let a high sense of grat- tude ever prompt you to do your utmost, in securing the approbation of your own consciences in this matter, and the further esteem and confidence of the Noble Ol- der to which you belong. Inefficiency — inattention — carelessness, or a want of proper interest, on the part of the officers, seals the destiny of any association amongst men. We naturally look to our leaders — those who for the time direct and control us, as the embodiment and exponents, of the great principles we seek to establish for our own mutual benefit, and also for the improvement and cultivation, of the generations which shall succeed us. And thus, whenever in them we discover a lack of energy and zeal in the good work, — when we discover incom- petency on their part, with no visible effort at improve- ment, then, as a matter of course, the hands of the membership hang feebly down, and they take but little if any interest in the success of the Order while this state of things remain. Wherefore, companions, it behooves you in an especial manner to act like moral heroes, upon whom rests the weighty responsibility of vitalizing and binding more firmly together all the fraternal bands which unites us — or of assuming the fearful venture of enfeebling and blighting every tendril, and ligament, that would otherwise hold us together in solid compact. May God give you wisdom to direct, discretion to rule, energy to advance, courage to maintain, and co-opera- tive genius to build up — establish — and beautify this great moral edifice, until its foundations become as ini- 25 mutable as the Rock of Ages, rising in its; fair propor- tions, symmetrical in all its outlines; may it in the years to come, prove to be a refuge for the tempted — the oppressed, and the struggling of every land and clime under the whole heavens. You will now all re- peat after me the following obligation. I. , in the presence of God, and this Encampment of Independent Champions of Temper- ance, do, upon my own free will and accord, assume to take upon myself, the duties and labors of the office into which I am now about to be initiated. Thus I most solemnly promise upon my honor as a Champion, that I will use all due diligence to render myself as efficient in the duties of the office as possible; I will, unless pre- vented by sickness, or some unavoidable circumstance, over which I have no control, be in my place regularly at every session of this Encampment, and shall then, and at all times, do my utmost to subserve the purposes, and advance the interests of this Order. Can Sentinel. Your duty requires you to take your station at the outer gate of the Encampment, and ml with a vigilant eye and ear, this first door of entrance. Be on the alert, for upon a sentinel depends much of the security and safety of all interested. You will have charge <»t' the anti-chamber; permit no noise or confusion within the same. Notify Champions that cannol enter the Encampment daring the initiatory ces; have the general oversight of the regalia, dur* iuLT i ho session of the Encampment and a^i>t, when called upon, in the initiatory service. Jic vigilant, and your reward shall be as certain, as your Office is respon- sible. ;/. Your duty requires yon to take charge of the inner gate to this Encampment, 26 which you are expected to guard with a jealous eye and ear; permit no one to enter or pass you without all those qualifications, by which you know them to be worthy members of our Order. In the absence of the Senior Champion, you will take his place pro tern, and for the time, fill the functions of his office. Be prompt, dili- gent, and true, and you will do much in advancing the interests and establishing the principles of our Order. Senior Champion. The dignity of your office is such, as to require your prompt attendance upon the duties of the same. The important charge given by you to every candidate initiated, renders it very necessary that you should be well up in all your parts. Seek to make your- self familiar with the work and duties of your office. It is incumbent upon you to observe that the work is given correctly ; that all the preparations necessary for the initiation of a candidate are as perfect as possi- ble; and that no infringements are made upon the established rules and laws of the same. You are to take the general oversight of both gates, and see that each department is properly conducted. Be decisive and firm, yet courteous and true, and you shall not fail of receiv- ing your reward. Companion Treasurer. Your office is one of trust and great personal responsibility. It should be gratifying for you to know that your Companions are willing to rely upon your integrity. Pay out no moneys in your pos- session^ only on an order drawn by the Worthy Secre- tary, and signed by the Eminent Commander. May the good opinion formed of you, thus expressed in your se- lection to this important office of trust, induce you to guard with a vigilant eye, the funds of this Encampment, and the approbation of a good conscience, shall ever be vour reward. 27 Companion Secretary. You are the correspondent, and financial officer, of this Encampment Your labors are varied and responsible ; you receive all moneys of this Encampment, and pay the same over to the worthy Treasurer, taking his receipt for the same. You will make a correct minute of the proceedings of every ses- sion of this body, and attend to the greater portion of fficial correspondence. Be prompt and faithful, ex- peditious in the dispatch of business, and when your rec- ord shall have been fully posted, may it be said of you, as it was said of one of old, "Well done thou good and faithful servant." Companion Captain of the Host. Your position in this Encampment, more perhaps than any other officer's, is singularly difficult to perform. You have been chosen to till and perform its duties, from that aptness of qualir fications you are supposed to possess. The impressive- ness of the initiatory service, depends, in a great meas- ure, upon your good judgment and adaptibility. Thus, then, when you take into consideration all these facts, you will doubtless be stimulated with a firm resolve to do till in your power to render impressive and effective, the beautiful charge entrusted to you. To secure this object, you will please place yourself under the follow- ing obligation : I, , do most solemnly promise, that within two weeks from this day, I will thoroughly com- mit t(» memory, every part of the ceremony entrusted to me, unless prevented by sickness, or some accident over which I could have no possible control. Uor. Your place in the El - campment, i- in the left of the. Eminent Commanded leofhis councillor*, it is your privilege ;it any time, t<> make any suggestion, or give any advice you think 28 proper. If qualified, you will at all times head the col- umn, and lead off in the ringing ; and in the absence of 'the Eminent Councillor, you are to take his place dnring his absence, at the right of the Eminent Commander; and in the absence of both, the Eminent Commander and Eminent Councillor, you are to take the chair of the presiding officer. Eminent Councillor. Yon are truly, in every sense of that word, the associate of the Executive Officer of this Encampment, and in his absence, you are to occupy his place. Let the dignity of the position stimulate you with a laudable ambition, to fit and qualify yourself per- fectly for the same. Your duty in the initiatory service is a very important, one, and requires at your hands a faithful application to the study of the ritual, in order to suitably qualify yourself to take part in the same. Be ambitious to excel, and your promotion in the Order shall be commensurate with yonr fidelity. Eminent Commander. You are doubtless aware, that you in particular have assumed to take upon yourself, the duties of a very laborious and responsible position. You are, during your term of office, Chairman of the Executive Committee, as well as the executive officer of this Encampment. The dignity of the position should impress you with the fact, that your Companions hold you in high esteem, for were it otherwise than this, you certainly never would have been selected to fill the chair of its presiding officer. Let the confidence and trust reposed in you remain unshaken. Be prompt, faithful, and impartial in the discharge of duty. Be manly and true, dignified and courteous, and you shall leave an im- pression upon the destinies of this Encampment for good, which the storms of time shall never obliterate. Emi- nent Commander, you will assume the genera] oversight of this Encampment, guard with a vigilant eye, all its 20 interests; you will see that its laws are mildy, yet promptly enforced; you will confine yourself strictly to the Constitution and By-Laws, which create and limit vour authority, and in every possible way, you will do your utmost to promote the harmony, keep alive the in- \ and secure the permanency and success of this noble institution. And now, Eminent Commander, before assuming the duties of your office, you will take upon yourself the following obligation: I, , in the presence of God, and the Independent Champions of Temperance here assembled, do most solemnly promise and declare, that I will, to the utmost of my ability, seek to perform faithfully, all the duties and requirements of my office. As Chairman of the Executive Committee of this Encampment, I will see that on the death of any worthy Companion, belong- ing to any of the Encampments within the district to which I may belong, that the money to which they are entitled, is promptly collected and properly disbursed, so help me God, and keep me faithful in the due per- formance of the same. CEREMONIES OF INITIATION OF APPOINTED OFFICERS. Companions, are you willing to take upon your- selves the duties and responsibilities of the different offices to which you have been appointed I We are. E. C. Worthy Companions, you have been selected, and have ixiven your consent to till the diflerent others to which you have hem oboseo, by the Executive Officer and his Councillor. In the discharge of your duties, y<»u are called upon to take a prominent part in the ini- tiatory * i cpected to assume with fideli- fche various characters which you an- selected t<» 30 represent, and present them as true to nature as is possi- ble for you to do; your own knowledge and. judgment must guide you in this matter. But whatever you are called upon to do, do it with energy and zeal, and in so natural a way, as to impress the candidate with a sense of vivid reality. You will see the importance of being in prompt attendance at every session of the Encamp- ment, so as to be able to take an active part in all its exercises. It is highly necessary that all of you commit thoroughly to memory your portion of the initiatory ceremonies ; you will therefore rise to your feet, and take upon yourselves the following obligation: I, , do most solemnly promise, that within two weeks from this day, I will thoroughly com- mit to memory, all that portion of the ritual in the ini- tiatory service alloted to me, unless prevented by sick- ness, or some unavoidable circumstance, over which I can exercise no control. And now worthy Companions all, you will at once take your appropriate places, as the officers of this En- campment for the next six months ensuing, and enter at once upon the discharge of your several duties. BURIAL CEREMONIES. Whenever the Eminent Commander is notified that a worthy companion of his encampment is dead, it shall be his duty, at once, to call an extra session of the en- campment, and whenever the members are thus convened, he shall call the encampment to order — proceed to open in due form, then turning to the order of " new business" open under that head. Then rising in his place shall proceed to say : E. C. Companions, we are convened to-day for the purpose of making the necessary arrangements for pay- 31 ing the last sad tribute of respect to our departed compan- ion. Death has invaded our ranks, and one who a short time ago met with us to assist in advancing the great pur- poses of our organization — is no more on earth ! No more will we hear his voice in the impressive ceremonies of our beloved order ; he has completed life's tiresome jour- ney and is at rest. We meet at this time for the pur- pose of making the necessary arrangements, for his burial. We will at once proceed to make these arrange- ments : ORDER OF PROCESSION. 1. Music. 2. Sentinel. 3. Worthy Chaplain. 4. Appointed officers. Members of the Order. G. Senior and Junior Champions. 7. Worthy Treasurer and Worthy Secretary. 8. Captain of the Host. 9. Eminent Councillor and Vice Councillor. 10. Eminent Commander. 11. Past Eminent Commanders. 1-2. Delegates of Grand Encampments. 13. Officers of Grand Encampments. 14. Delegates of Supreme Commander v. 15. Officer! of the Supreme Commamlery. 16. Supreme Grand Sire of the United Btates. 17. The Body. 18. Mourners. (On arriving at the grave the mourners will take tin ir plao e head t hereof, t he Eminent Commander shall take his place at the fool of the L'lavr, and the members it practicable ihall form in a circle around H : 32 t then a funeral hymn may be sung; after which, the Eminent Commander shall proceed to Bay :) E. C. Beloved Companions, we here have before us, the end of all the living ; it has been truly said, " man springeth up like a flower and is cut down;" " as the morning cloud and the early, dew he passeth away ;" death, the reckless wrecker, invades all homes, and chills with his icy breath all hearts ; the weak and the strong are alike to him ; neither wealth — nor power — nor position will stay his remorseless ravages ; the child of tender years — the prattling boy, the blooming lass — the doting father and mother, all, of every age, and race. and clime under the whole heavens, are under the reign and dominion of death. How sad to contemplate — frequently — man's earthly destiny*. Sometimes just as he begins to enjoy the fruits of his labors, in the very strength of his manhood, he is called to die, *and thus this narrow cold grave is the silent house appointed for all the living; *' dust thou art and unto dust shalt thou return " is the irrevocable unchangeable decree, and those of us who to-day bear our companion to the tomb, shall in like manner soon be borne ourselves, and perchance like the green leaf nipped by the untimely frost, we may pass away, just as we may imagine ourselves prepared to live. May this sad practical lesson sink deep into our hearts, and " may we so number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom," so that when at last our sun shall sink, behind the western hill of life — and we shall sleep mid the darkness ol the tomb, may our lives have been so ordered, and our works of philanthrophy so well executed, that our spirits freed from this cold-clay, tene- ment, shall rise immortal, and live, and Bing, and shine forever where an immortal life is never touched by the cold damps of the grave, Companions attention, 33 all together, ° ° ». (30.) The Worthy Chaplain will now proceed to invoke the divine blessing. W. C. Almighty God, Maker and Creator of all things, Judge of all men ; we meekly implore Thee to look in tender compassion upon us at this time ; may we more than ever before realize the uncertainty of life, and the certainty of death. We regret and bewail our manifold transgressions which we from time to time have committed against Thee, in thought, word, and deed, provoking most justly thy displeasure against us; have mercy upon us most Merciful Father, and prepare us so to live amid the temptations and teacheries of this wicked world, that at the last we may become — through Thy unbounded love, inheritors of everlasting life. Regard in tender compassion the relatives of our de- • d Companion, may they bear with meekness and fortitude the severe loss, which they sustain ; and in the end of life's weary pilgrimage may they with us, and all the true and the noble become inheritors of Thine everlasting kingdom. Amen. BAHQROFT U*«AHt THE REGALIA OF SUPREME AND GRAND OFFICERS. 1. Supreme Founder and Deputy Grand Commander, and organizing officer; a blue velvet apron trimmed with gold, surmounted with cross-swords and nine gold stare ; a red sash trimmed with gold fringe; a blur scarf trimmed with gold lace and fringe, surmounted with doable triangle, anchor, chain and stars; black hat and white plume. 2. Grand Commander, red relvel apron trimmed with gold fringe, surmounted with cross-swords and throe gold stars, and cross-gavels; a black Bask trimmed with 34 fringe ; a red scarf trimmed with gold lace, and gold fringe, surmounted with anchor, cross-swords, arid three golden stars on either side of cross-swords; black hat with red plume or feather. 3. Grand Councillor; the same as the Grand Com- mander with the exception of cross-gavels, with two stars on scarf. 4. Grand Vice Councillor, the same as Grand Coun- cillor — with one star on scarf, with a rosette of red white and blue on the scarf, at the shoulder, and also at the hip. 5. Grand Captain of the Host ; same as the Grand Councillor, without the stars on the scarf; but in their stead, cross swords and lance, on the breast of scarf, with sword suspended to sash. 6. Grand Secretary; same regalia as Grand Council- lor, without the stars ; but in their stead, the cross pens. 7. Grand Treasurer ; same regalia as Grand Secretary, with cross keys, in place of cross pens. 8. Grand Prelate; same regalia as Grand Treasurer, with an open bible on scarf. 9. Grand Senior Champion; same regalia as Grand Prelate, with a golden eagle on the breast of scarf, and three small golden stars above it. 10. Grand Junior Champion; same regalia as Grand Champion, with the three small golden stars, without the eagle. 11. Past Grand Commander; same regalia as that worn by the Grand Commander, with an addition of a golden triangle within the circle of a ring, worn upon the breast of scarf, also a golden lance suspended from the neck from a blue ribbon. 35 REGALIA WORN BY OFFICERS AND MEM- BERS OF SUBORDINATE ENCAMPMENTS. 1. Eminent Commander; black velvet apron, sur- mounted with cross swords, and trimmed with silver lace or silver fringe, or without either. A black velvet scarf, either plain or trimmed, with a double triangle upon the breast of same, with a small silver star at each point, and a golden star in the center; also six silver stars, three on each side of triangle, one inch from the from the same, and one inch from each other. 2. Eminent Councillor; same regalia as that worn by Eminent Commander, with a single triangle on breast of scarf, with a small golden star in the center of it, with a silver star at each point, with two silver stars on each Bide. 3. Eminent Vice Councillor; same regalia as Eminent Councillor, with triangle, without the three silver stars at the points, with small gold star in the center, with one silver star on either side of it. Also a red and white rosette on the shoulder of scarf, with a red rosette at the hip, with three streamers, eighteen inches long, of red, white and blue, one inch wide, pending therefrom. 4. Captain of the Host; same regalia as that worn by the Eminent Councillor, with cross swords upon the St, with a silver star on each side of swords; also sash and sword. 5. Worthy Secretary ; same regalia as worn by Emi- nent Councillor, with only cross pens on the breast of Bcarf. Worthy Tr< -urer; same regalia as worn by Worthy Secretary, with cross keys opon the 1 >«. 7. tampion ; same regalia at worn by Worthy surer, with Bilver eagle upon the breast, and three ■Qyer stars surrounding it. 36 8. Junior Champion; same regalia as worn by the Senior Champion, with the three stars without the eagle. 9. Worthy Sentinel . same regalia as worn by Junior Champion, w T ith one silver star on the breast of sash. 10. Past Eminent Commander; the same regalia as that worn by the Eminent Commander, with this excep- tion, that their regalia is trimmed with gold lace, with all gold stars, with the letters, P. E. C, arranged thus on the apron around the cross swords. REGALIA OF APPOINTED OFFICERS. 1. W. C. ; a black velvet apron, or a black apron of any material, surmounted by a cross sword, and either trimmed with silver lace, or silver fringe or plain, with a cross suspended from the neck. 2. M. of C. ; Same apron of the W. C, with cross swords, with a red scarf made of silk, or any other ma- terial, and trimmed to taste. 3. A. of L. ; same apron as worn by the M. of C, with a white scarf, made of silk, or any other material, trimmed to taste. 4. A. of D. ; same apron as worn by A. of L., with black scarf, plain. 5. W.; same apron as above, with a white rosette, with three green streamers, twelve inches long, worn on the breast. b. First V.; same apron as above, with a rosette of crimson worn on the breast. 7. Second V.; apron same as above, with a yellow rosette on breast. 8. R. S.; same apron as above, with a large black ro- sette worn on the breast. 9. I. X.: Bame apron as above, with a yellow and green rosette, worn on the breast. The members all wear the apron as above. Members who have been delegates to the Grand En- campment, are entitled to wear mi their aprons four gold- en stars, one in each corner of the apron, with a green wreath encircling the same. This badge shall only be worn by those who have been duly elected and have actually attended the Grand Encampment