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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 8

Charter of the Grand Lodge of the German Empire

Charter of the Grand Lodge of the German Empire.

As this document has not heretofore been published, I insert a copy from the duplicate on file in this office, so that the exact terms of the Warrant may appear in our printed Journal:

I. O. O. F.

Friendship, Love, and Truth.

To all whom it may concern:

Know Ye, That the Grand Lodge of the United States of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the source of all true and legitimate Odd Fellowship in the United States of America, and by virtue of its constitutional power authorized to organize Lodges and Encampments, Grand and Subordinate, in foreign countries, doth hereby, upon application of Germania Lodge, No. 1, Borussia Lodge, No. 2, Teutonia Lodge, No. 3, Templar Lodge, No. 4, Concordia Lodge, No. 5, Humboldt Lodge, No. 6, of Prussia; Württemberg Lodge, No. 1, Donau Lodge, No. 2, Schiller Lodge, No. 3, of Württemberg; and Saxonia Lodge, No. 1, of Saxony, create and erect into a distinct sovereignty in Odd Fellowship the said Lodges, under the name and title of "The Grand Lodge of the German Empire," with independent power in all matters relating to Odd Fellowship within the said jurisdiction, except as follows:

First.—The said Grand Lodge shall not at any time hereafter, in anywise alter or repudiate any of the signs, tokens, passwords, lectures, or charges, or any other portion or part of either the written or unwritten work of the Order, as known and practised within the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge.

Second.—This Grand Lodge reserves to itself the right to give said Grand Lodge of the German Empire the annual traveling password to be used within the jurisdiction thereof, and to prescribe the form of card; and both jurisdictions shall use the same traveling password.

Third.—That said, "The Grand Lodge of the German Empire," shall have page 68 power, subject to the exceptions hereinabove provided, to establish and grant Charters to other Subordinate Lodges and Encampments, and to other Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments within the German Empire, and within such other Germanic European countries as may hereafter be attached to said jurisdiction by consent of this Grand Lodge; and when such other Lodges or Encampments, Subordinate or Grand, shall be so established, they shall sustain the same relations to said "The Grand Lodge of the German Empire "as like Lodges and Encampments sustain to this Grand Lodge; and Farnsworth Encampment, No. 1, at Berlin, Prussia, is hereby placed under the jurisdiction of said "The Grand Lodge of the German Empire." if and when established.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States, at the City of Baltimore, in the State of Maryland, this nineteenth day of September, 1872, and of our Order the fifty-fourth.

Fred. D. Stuart, Grand Sire.

James L. Ridgely, G. Cor. and Rec. Secretary.

Great Britain—The correspondence with this newly-established jurisdiction has been by no means encouraging during the past year. In fact, at present, we are in doubt whether Thomas Wildey Lodge, No. 1, and Anglo- American Encampment, No. 1, instituted at London, England, by Special D. G. Sire R. H. Morrison, of Michigan, under flattering circumstances, have not each succumbed to the adverse circumstances of their position. The disappointments which these two bodies sustained and the severe trials to which they were subjected from time to time had the effect to reduce the membership and to materially diminish the zeal of the few who remained. An attempt was made to re-organize the Lodge under a new name. An informal meeting was called, at which it was suggested that the name be changed from Thomas Wildey Lodge No. 1, to that of Victoria Lodge, No. 1, and it was so agreed by the few who attended the meeting. Due notice was forwarded to the M. W. G. Sire of this movement, who advised the members of the irregularity and illegality of the proceeding without the special assent of the Grand Lodge of the United States It was not doubted but that the local popularity of the Lodge would be advanced by the change of name suggested; yet the constitutional impediment which secured the inviolability of the name of a Lodge, except by leave of the Grand Lodge, was insurmountable.

In the absence of information to the contrary, it is feared that the organizations in England set on foot two years ago have gradually died out. Thus the attempt on the part of the G. L. of U S to introduce American Odd Fellowship to England adversely, has signally failed for a second time.

It is to be regretted, that our former experience in this field had not sufficiently enlightened us on the subject. The truth is, that the effort on our part to enter upon a quasi adverse jurisdiction in England in Odd Fellowship was unwise, when the authorities of the Order in that country were friendly disposed to us, and were fraternally approaching us, to negotiate, with a view to an interchange of Lodge visitations or some kind of satisfactory fraternization of the two Orders, the object evidently being to reunite the two Orders in England and America and throughout the world, if practicable; and if such idea should prove impracticable on account of the diverse system of our work, to introduce such a spirit of sympathy between us, as would gradually ripen into a closer fellowship the two largest and most powerful beneficial and benevolent secular organizations in the world, now numbering in the aggregate more than a million of members. The G. L. is aware that this subject is now in the hands of the Grand Master and Board of Directors of the Manchester Unity and of the M. W. G. Sire and Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the United States, by reference of the Grand Annual Movable Committee and the Grand Lodge of the United States respectively. It is undoubtedly of sufficient importance to challenge the gravest attention of that joint confer- page 69 ence, and it is suggested that the subject be at present considered by a special committee with a view of presenting the matured views of this Grand Lodge in the premises to the conference. Certainly the importance of the issue involved to the interest and welfare of the two Orders would justify an earnest effort to harmonize, if not unite, two such powerful benevolent organizations, having a common origin and parentage.

To arrive at a correct understanding of the situation, I present extracts from the several letters received and sent during the year, as follows:

Bro. Ludwig Klaje. under date of October 3, 1877, advised, that the documents sent enabled him "to make the acquaintance of Bro. Fairlie, who appears to be a very zealous brother. Bro. Cussans, who has procured the two rooms, is unfortunately ill and out of town, and until his return in three or four weeks we cannot call the brothers together. Bros. Fairlie and Newton are gratified with all they have seen of the Order, and I have no doubt of success. There has been some disappointment, but the brothers have promised to forget all the disagreeable affairs of the past and work with renewed energy for the Lodge. They will not, however, start under the name of 'Thomas Wildey Lodge, No. 1,' saying they never had a meeting, the life of the Lodge was too short and the memory too disagreeable. They will take as the name for the new Lodge 'Victoria, No. 1,' and they have selected this name because it is their Queen's name. Of course. Thomas Wildey was a man of whom without doubt the Order is justly proud, but he was unknown here, and the failure of the Lodge attempted to be organized by that name makes it distasteful to them. I hope you will use your influence to make this change acceptable to the G. L. of U. S. I was unable to learn whether the entire set of regalia, necessary books, cards, etc., have been received I think it will be better to have Bro. Ostheim for D. D. G. Sire. In his last letter he promised to come to London to see me."

This letter was received on the 14th and answered on the 17th of October, thanking the brother for his interest in the Lodge at London, and saying: "I am of opinion that no trouble will interpose itself in the change of name, and perhaps on that subject all impediment would be removed by chartering a new Lodge as 'Victoria Lodge. No. 2,' to consist, of course, of as many of the former organization as would join in the new enterprise. However, as I have said, that will not interrupt the change of name, which may be arranged hereafter to suit the parties, and to avoid possible objection I will send your letter to the M. W. Grand Sire, who will doubtless give you a cordial appreciation for the interest you manifest in the success of our English enterprise, and he will probably appoint Bro. Ostheim to the position of D. D. G. Sire for Great Britain.

"Continue to interest yourself in this good cause, and be assured your efforts will confer a lasting obligation upon our Order."

The opinion of the Grand Sire was also communicated, that "I have no doubt that Bro. Klaje will be of great value to us in London, particularly so, if his friend Ostheim co-operates with us as we expect. In reference to a change in the name of the Lodge from 'Thomas Wildey' to 'Victoria' you might say that there would not be any trouble, for I do not think that the G. L. of U. S. would hesitate a moment." He was also informed that "the Journal of the G L. of U. S. will show that the regalia, books, etc., for the Lodge were forwarded from here to the proper parties."

On the 17th December another letter from Bro. Klaje, dated the 2d, came to hand, who advised: "We had the first meeting last Friday, November 30th, in the office of the Anglo-Californian Bank, where, a staircase higher we shall have the Lodge-rooms offered by Bro. Cussans, Secretary of the said bank. Unfortunately only three brothers were present, but we. notwithstanding, commenced. The following is a minute of the proceedings: 'Victoria Lodge, No. 1, London, the 30th of November, 1877. At a meeting of the above Lodge, called by requisition of Bro. L. Klaje, there were present Bros. John E. Cussans, Archibald Fairlie, and L. Klaje. Bro. Klaje presided. A letter from Helvetia Lodge, No. 1, Zurich, Switzerland, congratu- page 70 lating Victoria Lodge, No. 1, on its inauguration was read and unanimously ordered to be placed on the minutes of the Lodge. Bro. Klaje having presented a photograph of the emblems given by, Bro. Jean Gist, Zurich, the same was gratefully accepted and the chairman was requested to return the thanks of the Lodge to the donor. It was resolved that Bro. Archibald Fairlie be requested to place himself in communication with Bro. Joseph Morrell, with the object of procuring the necessary furniture for the Lodge-room L. Klaje, Chairman.'

"It was privately agreed to change the name and start under the name of 'Victoria Lodge, No. 1.' Please inform the M. W. Grand Sire, and I hope he will accept. The brothers are very glad to observe the interest the foreign jurisdictions take in the establishment of the Order in Great Britain. The furniture for the Lodge is expected to be finished in about four weeks, and it is important that Bro. Ostheim comes to England at the beginning of next year, as the brothers expect to have from 12 to 16 friends who ought to be initiated when he visits them. I have the utmost confidence that our Order will now succeed here, as it is in good hands. I am, contrary to my expectations, about to return to Zurich to reside, and regret that I shall be unable to meet with the brothers. I will, however, before I leave, assemble them and give further instructions in the written and unwritten work."

A reply to the above was mailed on the 27th of December, advising that his letter was "transmitted to the M. W. Grand Sire, who informs us that he has written to Bro. Fairlie, a member of Thomas Wildey Lodge, upon the subject, considering it better that he should advise the Lodge directly. If you will consult with Bro. Fairlie, he will doubtless put you in possession of the Grand Sire's views as to the irregularity of some of the proceedings had. It is always better, although it may cause delay, to proceed in order in all we do. I have not heard from Bro Ostheim, who was appointed D. D. G. Sire for England. He at first declined to act, but was urged to withdraw his declination."

This letter reached Bro. Klaje, at Zurich, to which place he had returned, and from whence he wrote on the 27th of January as follows:

"I am greatly disappointed that I could not carry out my intention to establish our Order in old England. I ought to have done it during my residence in London, but it was a very difficult matter, and required more time than I had at my disposal. I have written to Bro Ostheim, giving him all necessary particulars, and he has promised me that he will go to London whenever the brothers there desire his presence, and I hope he will finish what I began. I cannot conceal from you that I feel a little disregarded that the M. W. G. Sire did not write to me about the irregularities, as I was the cause of the action, and the brothers in London will not understand what manner of irregularities occurred. I feel, however, too great an interest in our institution to be offended by a personal disregard. Please oblige by informing me what was not regular. I intend to return to London in a month or two, for a visit, and you can imagine that I shall be happy to find our Order established and be able to speak to brothers in a sacred Lodge-room."

On the 28th of February Brother Klaje was informed:

"Your favor of 27th ult. reached this office on the 11th inst. and was immediately sent to the M. W. Grand Sire, who returned it yesterday with the remark that he had thought over the subject and was satisfied that his course in communicating directly with the members of the Lodge was correct. Had you been D. D. G. Sire the case would have been different, but being a member of a Lodge in another jurisdiction and holding no commission, he could not find any authority for advising you that the proceedings in London were irregular. He begs to assure you that he meant no disrespect, nor did he intend in any way to slight you; on the contrary he highly appreciates your labors in London and regrets that your business has obliged you to leave that city. at the same time he was compelled to recognize you page 71 simply as a volunteer, not clothed with authority, but laboring earnestly in the cause.

"I am unable to forward a copy of the letter of the Grand Sire to Bro. Fairlie, but presume it will be a sufficient answer to your question 'what was not regular?' to say that a Lodge must work under the name by which it was chartered, until the Grand Body to which it is subordinate authorizes a change. It is not in the power of a Subordinate to change its name or number."

Several letters from brothers who have advised of their intention to visit England have been received, but we were unable to furnish any satisfactory information concerning the London Lodge. Bro. R. C. T. Schroeder, P. G., of St Louis, announced his intention to visit Great Britain in June, and promised to transmit early information as to the situation of affairs in connection with Thomas Wildey Lodge, and on the 21st of August the following was received:

138 Ashworth St, Rochdale, Lancashire. England,

James L. Ridgely. Esq, Grand Cor. and Rec. Secretary:

Dear Sir and Brother,—I have just returned from London, where I remained a week or more. Concerning the Order there I would simply say that all operations are for a time entirely suspended, there being no Lodge in existence so far as I could learn. I called upon Bro. Archibald Fairlie. of 48 King William Street, who appears to be the leading spirit in the Order here, and was very kindly received and most courteously treated. Bro. Fairlie informs me that owing to a bad impression having been created at the time of the organization, a disinclination has arisen amongst the members to resume affiliation until all stigma shall have vanished from the name of the Order. Much as I deprecate the idea of a scandal, still its baneful influence has had a bad effect upon all would-be members, and until some counteracting element is brought into requisition to dispel the cloud, Odd Fellowship in England will remain a nonentity. Another thing which militates greatly against the Lodge holding its meetings and the accession of members, is that London is one vast metropolis and our members are generally business men whose residences are from seven to ten miles from the city, who must therefore, at great personal inconvenience, stay in town on Lodge nights.

It appears that the members have not been properly or thoroughly instructed in the secret work of the Order, though the information that has been imparted has fallen upon fertile soil. A great many men have asked me if our Order is not the M. U. without its conviviality. I have replied that it is the pure American Order, remodeled and revised from the M. U. I have found many who are willing to become members of Lodges in the vicinity of their residences, but none who will go more than five miles to attend a meeting. Contrary to my expectations the Manchester Unity exhibits no opposition to our Order here. Their time is chiefly occupied with their own troubles, as there are numerous splits and departures here from their organization.

Bro. Fairlie seems to have hopes of the resurrection of our Order here, and appeared quite sanguine of ultimate success if the subject is properly canvassed and brought before the public, and I think with an energetic and live brother at the head, with one or two to canvass the districts, a fine harvest of worthy and noble brothers might be reaped. I hope in my next to be able to give you the exact status of the Order in England, as I am awaiting the information from Bro. Fairlie.

I shall be glad to execute any command or service the Grand Sire may see fit to intrust me with, and I hope the time is not far distant when the "three links" shall be emblazoned on the four quarters of the globe.

Fraternally yours,

Richard C. T. Schroeder,

P. G. of Missouri Lodge, No. 11, St. Louis, Mo.
page 72

On the 19th of October, 1877, Bro. F. S. Ostheim, of Elberfeld, Germany was commissioned D. D. G. Sire for Great Britain and Ireland, also for the Netherlands, but in a letter of November 5th felt compelled to decline the appointments. He was urged to withdraw his declination, and on the 17th of December reluctantly consented to accept the positions. He has not, however, so far as we can learn, been able to visit London, indeed it was not his intention to go until invited by the brethren of Thomas Wildey Lodge.

Netherlands.—The condition of the Order in this jurisdiction is entirely satisfactory. Mount Sinai Lodge, No. 2, was instituted at Amsterdam by Bro F. S. Ostheim, D. D. G. Sire, on the 17th of January, 1878, and has met with extraordinary success, having admitted to membership in less than six months, 38 by initiation, and 4 by deposit of card, making the membership, June 30th, 47. Paradise, No. 1, in the same time initiated 10, giving them a membership of 33; total in the jurisdiction, 80.

The correspondence with D. D. G. Sire Ostheim embraces letters from him dated Sept. 21st, Nov. 5th, Nov. 20th, Dec. 17th, Dec. 24th. 1877; Jan. 23d, Feb. 7th. Feb. 9th, Feb. 25th, Feb. 26th, March 1st, March 4th, March 17th, March 19th, March 22d, March 23d, April 20th, April 23d, and July 16th, 1878; and replies from this office Oct. 2d, Oct. 8th, Oct. 17th, Dec. 1st, Dec. 11th, 1877; Jan. 16th, Feb. 11th, Feb. 28th, March 8th, March 30th, April 5th, June 20th, June 23d, and July 31st, 1878.

These several letters relate to the translation of the ritual into the Holland tongue, the condition and prospects of the Order in the Netherlands and in England, and the action of the G. L. of U. S. at the last session in appropriating $100.00 to Bro. Ostheim. On the latter subject I submit the statement of the D. D. G. Sire of the expense incurred by him, in his efforts to introduce the Order into the kingdom of the Netherlands. It is but justice to Bro. Ostheim to say that the statement was sent in reply to a request that inasmuch as he regarded the appropriation insufficient he should furnish an account of his expenditures. The letter, dated Elberfeld, 22d March, 1878, is as follows:

"Pursuant to your demands to send you a statement of the expense I incurred and which I advanced during the time I acted as District Deputy Grand Sire, which office I kept since nearly two years, I herewith submit to you and through you to the R. W. G. L. of U. S. the following statement of my advances, viz.: 1876, in June and October; 1877, January, March, May, July, and November; 1878, January and March, including my expenses and sojourning, as well as my correspondence (postage, etc.) with the jurisdiction intrusted to my care, and with America, $994.00. Received from Paradise Lodge, at the time of institution, $42.00, and from Mount Sinai Lodge, at the time of institution, $33.00, total $75.00, leaves a balance of $919.00 in my favor. You observe that I traveled nine times to Amsterdam, sojourning there always for such length of time as I found necessary. The correspondence I entertained during the two years with the Netherlands, lately with England and the United States, is quite voluminous, and included in the expenses. The charges I made are my actual advances. Considering, however, the immense loss of time, it is easily to be inferred that my sacrifices are by far greater than above stated; in fact so great, that I shall feel the effect from it for quite a length of time, if not forever. To fill honorably my mission I did not stop to sacrifice my very existence, and preferred rather to neglect my vocation than to neglect the Order, the dignity of which I always considered and shall continue to consider paramount to life itself. While submitting to you, as above stated, the bill for my advances, viz., $919.00, I should be glad to receive this amount as soon as you are at liberty to send the same to me.

"You wish me also to state what sum of money should be appropriated to meet the exigency and to justify me in continuing as D. D. G. Sire for England and for the Netherlands. Firmly contending that, at least for the first two years it is as necessary to travel variously to England as it proved to be to the Netherlands, an annual sum of $1,000.00 ought to be appro- page 73 priated. A D. D. Grand Sire appointed for such far distant countries, where the Order is in its infancy yet, incurs expenses nearly every day; he is obliged to use his personal influence and by his repeated presence to promote the interests of the Order and its maintenance in such new, but—if properly encouraged and cultivated—fertile fields."

This subject was referred to the M. W. Grand Sire, who promptly responded, inclosing his letter to this office, which was forwarded by the G. C. and R. Secretary to Bro. Ostheim, April 22d, with the following:

"Your letters of March 19th, 22d, and 23d have been duly received. In view of the grave tenor of which I without delay transmitted them to Philadelphia for the official consideration of the M. W. Grand Sire. I have this day received his reply, with return of the original letters to be filed in this office. The advice and opinions of the Grand Sire, which I herewith forward to your address, are so clear, concise, and well supported by the fundamental laws and principles of the Order, and are so consistent with our settled doctrines upon the subject of propagation, over and over again reiterated, that I am at a loss to understand how so intelligent an officer as Bro. F. S. Ostheim could have involved himself personally in expenses amounting to $1,000.00, in and about two Subordinate Lodges in the Netherlands, which by our laws were required to incur such expenses themselves. With sincere regret that such a state of circumstances should exist, I cannot perceive anything in the facts connected with the transaction which should even remotely be regarded as a source of actual or constructive encouragement in the premises."

On the 16th of July Bro. Ostheim advised that he again went to Amsterdam and installed the officers of Paradise Lodge, No. 1, and Mount Sinai, No. 2, receiving their reports and dues for the term. He reports: "Both Lodges, over which I exercise a most watchful eye, are in a flourishing condition, and Mount Sinai, No. 2, has been lately recruiting first-class and highly intelligent members, while Paradise Lodge, encouraged by the thought that the same is considered as the mother Lodge, rivals with the daughter in maintaining the ascendency over the Order in the jurisdiction. Although I wished to authorize a Past Grand to proceed with the installation, for the purpose of not estranging me from my vocation, it was considered of the highest moment to perform this office personally, and instil the minds of the brethren with renewed courage, warning them at the same time to live in peace and harmony. We separated at a late hour direct from the Lodge-room to our dwelling; and I conferred with the leading members of both Lodges in behalf of the future of the Order in their country the following day, before I left for Elberfeld again.

"I failed to answer your letter of April 22d, my feelings having been deeply wounded by its tenor. I still answer the same with some reluctance, but time, healing all wounds, has gained a triumph, and far from being tempted into any complaints I proceeded with double zeal in the exercise of my duties toward the G. L. of U. S. as their District Deputy, but still more in the exercise of humanity and philanthropy. Your sense of justice prompted you to demand at my hands a specification of my expenses from the time of having received the office as District Deputy and I have followed your wishes, the more so, as I found them plain and natural. My expenses were not incurred by instituting, as you allude to, one Lodge in Holland, but by my travelling to and from that country during 1876, 1877, and 1878, nine times, exclusively for the purpose to demonstrate that the introduction of the Order into the Netherlands was not a vain experiment, which undoubtedly it would have proven to become, if not all my mental energies and personal influence were exercised by repairing to that section whenever the Order was in danger, and if not every possible sacrifice would have been extended from me to keep the Order alive.

"On the 20th of April I transmitted to you the translation of the Initiatory Charge Book in a registered letter. The five degrees are nearly completed, and will be ready for my revision about the end of this month, so page 74 that very likely the translation will reach you a little before or during the session.

"Your letter, including the sentiments of the M. W. Grand Sire, concerning the Order in Switzerland, has been duly received. I forwarded the same (translating the text into the German language) to the Grand Secretary, Bro. H. Vogel, at Zurich, and gave the most explicit instructions, as wished for by your suggestions and those of the Grand Sire. If the G. L. of U. S. at their session should grant their petition to began independent body, under similar provisions as in Germany, I am confident that such a privilege will be appreciated in a manner as to satisfy you that the action of your Worthy Grand Lodge will prove both correct and salutary to the interests of the Order."

In acknowledging the above on the 31st of July, the G: C. and R. Secretary said: "You complain of my last as being aggressive to your feelings. I disclaim all such purpose, having only spoken as I think was my duty, certainly with no intention to wound your feelings. I could not, of course, recommend the payment of expenses incurred, without knowing their character, and the authority under which paid. It is only necessary for you to verify legitimate claims against the G. L. of U. S., contracted in the proper manner, to enlist my official approval. In that event I will cheerfully indorse them in the discharge of my duty, otherwise you cannot reasonably expect this office to pursue any other course than to withhold approval. However, if you will transmit your account in due form, I will present it to the next session."

In a letter of November 20th, Bro. Ostheim advised: "A brother, one of the Charter members of Mount Sinai Lodge, asks whether it was permitted to cause the pamphlet, 'Odd Fellowship—what is it? 'to be printed in the Holland language? The same has already been translated, and I request you to notify me whether there is any objection to printing this essay in Holland." He was informed that, "I cannot see the slightest objection to it."

Another matter remains unsettled. In 1877 a blank report was transmitted to Paradise Lodge, No. 1, with a request that it be filled up merely as a memorandum to exhibit the condition of the Lodge on the 1st of July, 1877, the annual report not being required until January, 1878. The Lodge construed it to mean that no dues were required for the fractional term ending June 30, 1877, and when a demand was made through the D. D. G. Sire for the dues, he replied, March 17th, as follows: "The dues you charge per report to July 30, 1877, $46.65, must rest upon an error. Your worthy Assistant Grand Secretary informed Paradise Lodge at the time you sent the blank report, on the margin of one of them, with the following words: 'Nothing will be required until after January the 1st, 1878.' Guided by these remarks the Lodge either thought you did not reserve the privilege to collect until that time any dues, or you did not wish to collect at all. I inferred the same deductions from the above assertion and fully coincided with Paradise Lodge. The latter one thought herself only entitled to pay dues as per December 31st, as transmitted to you, and if the liberality of the Grand Body assumed a shape as not to charge anything before that time, as the above remark distinctly expresses, Paradise Lodge felt the more grateful, as the fitting up of their room, etc., exhausted their means in a manner as to acknowledge the more your action in the premises. I fully devised their views, but I request you to inform Paradise Lodge that they labored under a mistake if they conveyed to the remarks of the worthy Assistant Secretary an interpretation which I asserted myself was entirely correct, but seems not to correspond with your views. You may enlighten me upon the subject also, but under the circumstances I cannot help but return your memorandum as the dues as understood to be due are already paid and sent to you, while one part of the memorandum is founded upon an error on your part according to the above remark."

Bro. Ostheim's premises are not correct, as instead of the indorsement page 75 being as he states, "nothing will be required until after January the 1st, 1878," an examination of the report now on file, will show that the following is the indorsement that was made when the blank was sent from this office: "Memorandum only; no report due until December 31, 1877."

On the 30th March, the G. C. and R. Secretary informed Bro. Ostheim: "I inclose Bro. Ross' explanation of the subject of the accounts of Paradise Lodge, with which he has become somewhat complicated by the memorandum to the Lodge on the subject. You will perceive by his present statement that his memorandum has been mistaken and misinterpreted by the Lodge and now explains specifically the situation. I trust this very specific and perspicuous statement will dispel all misunderstanding on the subject, and will restore the proper feeling in the case."

The Assistant G. Secretary wrote Bro. Ostheim as follows: "I have read with great surprise of the construction placed upon the pencil memorandum I made on a blank sent to Paradise Lodge, No. 1, Netherlands, about a year ago, with the intention of obtaining a statement of the condition of the Lodge on the 1st of July, 1877. Referring to the report, I find the memorandum as follows: 'Memorandum only; no report due until December 31, 1877.' If these words can in any way be construed to mean that the Lodge was released from the payment of dues from the date of institution to the 1st of July, 1877, I confess I am unable to appreciate the force of language.

"Article III. of By-laws (Digest, 1732a) requires returns to be made annually. Article XXVI. requires reports to December 31st. Constitution, Article XIV., Section 3, provides that Subordinates shall pay ten per cent. on their receipts to the G. L. of U. S. As the G. L of U. S. meets only in September, you will see that it was not in the power of any one in this office to remit the dues of a Subordinate. You will, I feel sure, on reflection, be satisfied there was nothing in the words written on the margin of the blank that justified the construction that the dues were remitted. I therefore return to you the statement, with proper credit for the remittances, and send a duplicate of the same to Paradise Lodge.

"1876, May 13, Cards, etc $10 00

1878, Feb. 11, Dues per report to June 30, 1877,

Fl. 1211.62 @ 38½ cts. say $466 47 @ 10% 46 65

Dues per report to Dec. 31, 1877, $132 58 13 25

$69 90

Cr.

Feb. 26, By Cash $10 00

Feb. 27, By Cash P. O. Money Order, $13, sent as 13 25

23 25

Due G. L. of U. S $46 65

Being for dues from institution to June 30, 1877."

On the 20th of April, Bro. Ostheim advised: "Confirming your letter of March 30th, I suggested to Paradise Lodge that according to the letter of the worthy Assistant G. Secretary they were owing yet for dues to the G. L. of U. S. that little amount which they, as well as myself, interpreted was not required by that Grand Body to be paid. I have no doubt it will be paid as soon as the statement from the Assistant G. Secretary will reach Amsterdam."

On the 10th of June a better dated Amsterdam, May 26, 1878, signed Jacob Wiener, A. L. Van Hinden, S. K. Liekenopparssen, with the seal of Paradise Lodge, No. 1, attached, was received at this office, and appears to refer to this subject. It is written in the Holland language, and after several days fruitless search for a translator, the writers were informed on the 21st of June, that "We are unable to get the letter translated, and request that you will repeat the contents in English. Your letters heretofore have been written in English and were satisfactory, and we hope you will continue to page 76 send them in that way. I notice, however, a passage in English in your letter which appears to be quoted, viz.: 'Nothing will be required until the first day of January.' If you intend this as a quotation from my letter of June 2, 1877, to Jacob Wiener, N. G., copied on Letter Book 4, page 852, I beg to say that you have made a mistake. I wrote: 'You will understand this is only a memorandum report,—your regular return will not be due until January, 1878.' If what I wrote is not clear, that the memorandum asked for was a memorandum only, I don't know how to make it so. I said, further, 'We desire this that we may present your condition in the report of the Grand Secretary to the G. L. of U. S. in September.' The dues are payable in accordance with the laws of the G. L. of U. S.—ten per cent, on receipts, and ice cannot say that you need not pay them."

February 22d a letter was received from a committee of Mount Sinai Lodge, No. 2, addressed "To the M. W. Grand Lodge of the United States," returning thanks for granting their Charter, etc. Also on the 16th of March a letter from the officers, dated Feb. 25th, accompanying "the photographs of the five institutors of Mount Sinai Lodge, No. 2 "These letters were duly acknowledged and are respectfully submitted with the entire correspondence with this jurisdiction.

July 19th, a letter was received from Jacob Wiener, desiring some diplomas in the Holland language The brother was informed that "the G. L. of U. S. has not authorized the diplomas printed in the Holland language; the demand would be too limited to justify the publication; still, if you will agree to purchase one hundred copies (fifty dollars), and furnish a translation free of expense to the G. L. of U. S., the amount would about pay the cost, and it is probable the printing of a hundred copies or more in the Holland language may be authorized The question will be submitted at the next session, but in order to obtain a favorable report it will be well for you to state the number of copies you will agree to purchase."

Peru.—Our advices and correspondence with this jurisdiction have been agreeable and satisfactory. The general monetary and business stringency, which prevails throughout the world, is more complained of in South America then in most other business centres. The Order has therefore correspondingly suffered, and the check to our progress in Peru from this cause, reported last year, has continued during the present year. Nevertheless we have reason to congratulate ourselves upon the annual reports of the Subordinates.

In consequence of the exorbitant rate of exchange in paying Lodge dues, by the Subordinates in Peru, to the Grand Lodge of the United States, the subject of the proper relief under the circumstances to be extended to them was considered at the last session, and upon the report of the Committee on Foreign Relations, and the recommendation of the M. W. G. Sire, it was ordered, "that the rate of exchange actually paid by the Lodges in Peru be credited to them, and that the Grand Secretary be authorized to give the Subordinate Lodges located in that Republic, credit for the balances appearing against them." Information to this effect was communicated to D. D. G. Sire Hurwitz, 27th September, 1877 and it is believed was entirely satisfactory to the Subordinates, affording the desired relief asked. The present annual returns are highly encouraging; the condition of the jurisdiction is as follows:

Lodges, 4; members, Dec. 31, 1876, 110; increase during the year, 31; receipts, $3,822.16; relief, $78.00. Encampment, 1; members, 19; loss, 1; receipts, $259.50. Ten per cent, on the receipts of the Subordinates amounted to $408.16, while the amount remitted was $209.26, about fifty-one per cent, or a little more than five per cent, on the receipts. The accounts were balanced in accordance with the legislation of the last session.

The letters from this office were of Sept. 27th, heretofore referred to; Oct. 19th, transmitting P. W's and commission; Oct. 22d, statement of credits to balance accounts of Subordinates; Dec. 29th, acknowledging receipt of D. D. G. Sire Hurwitz's letter of November 20th, and transmitting page 77 invoice of supplies; April 2, 1878, acknowledging the reports, remittance, and letter of the D. D. G. Sire of March 18th.

On the 20th November Bro. Hurwitz advised that certain members of Atahualpa Encampment, No. 1, had been "suspended for non-payment of dues and fees," and the adoption by the Encampment of a resolution, that as the said members "have refused to pay their admission fees, although they agreed, at the time of instituting the Encampment, to pay whatever sum may be fixed by this Encampment, the names of the said brothers be stricken from the list of Charter members, and the R. W. Grand Secretary of the G. L. of U. S. be informed of the fact." He also requested Charters for Lodges Nos. 1 and 2 and the Encampment similar to the documents furnished to Lodges 3 and 4, meaning those printed on blank diplomas. Bro. Hurwitz was informed that the Encampment had no right to erase any of the names from the Charter; "for a failure to fulfil their promises the parties may be arraigned as provided by the laws of the Order." Duplicate Charters, corresponding in form, date, etc., with the original Warrants were forwarded. A few copies of the Spanish Charge and Degree Books were forwarded, with the hope that Lodges in that language might be organized, Bro. Logan having expressed the opinion that Peru would prove a good field for Lodges working in the Spanish language.

Under date of March 13, 1878, Bro. Hurwitz advised of the receipt of letter from this office of December 29, 1877, together with the supplies, journals, etc. He transmitted the reports and dues, remarking: "The amount due the G. L. is 408.14 soles, Peruvian currency, which I transmitted to Columbia, and it was from there forwarded to you in a U. S. Gold bill, sixty days, $209.26, which is about 25 per cent, better than I could have done here. The act of the Encampment in striking certain names from the Charter was annulled, on learning that the proceeding was unlawful.

"I have lately been applied to by some of the Past Grands for a Grand Lodge, but as yet have not given the subject any consideration. I will soon bring it to the notice of the Lodges, and should they desire it, will make a move in that direction. My opinion is that the numerical strength of the Order in this jurisdiction will hardly be able to sustain a Grand Body. Please give me your opinion on the subject, as perhaps I look at the dark side of the picture. The Manchester Unity of Odd Fellows are opening a Lodge in this city. They made a move in that direction about a year ago, when I made some overtures to them, but it seems I did not succeed. As far as I can learn, their present candidates whom they offer to initiate for 5 soles each, are not of a desirable class of the foreigners here, and I have therefore not troubled myself much about them."

The above was answered April 2d, expressing the opinion that "it is wise to discourage the formation of a Grand Lodge until you have a larger number of Lodges and membership. In general I approve and encourage the formation of Grand Lodges wherever the strength of the constituency will justify the increased expense and responsibility, but in a community like yours, whose growth and progress is slow, although healthy, I think your advice is sound and judicious. Your progress is gradual, and I think your Grand Lodge, when formed, will be better prepared for its responsibility after a delay of another year or two, when the presumption is, that times and business will be better."

Sandwich Islands.—As will appear by the extracts from the correspondence with Bro. W. C. Parke, D. D. G. Sire for this jurisdiction, and Bros. C. S. Bartow and D. N. Flitner, former efficient officers, harmony has been restored, and the two Lodges are pursuing the even tenor of their ways undisturbed by the unhappy differences which it was feared would prove the ruin of the Order in this remote country.

Letters to the D. D. G. Sire were mailed on the 19th of October with P. W's and commission; Dec. 20th, on the subject of the Order at Honolulu: March 7, 1878, acknowledging receipt of letter of Feb. 9th with reports and page 78 dues; March 8th, advising of the proposed visit of D. D. G. Sire Harmon to Australia and his probable call at Honolulu; March 28th, acknowledging letter of 8th of March; May 4th, advising of letter of April 15th and August 8th, in reply to letter of June 26th.

The District Deputy, in letter of Dec. 1, 1877, referring to the receipt of commission, etc., said: "I should have preferred that the brethren here had selected another than myself for the office, but I shall endeavor during my incumbency to promote that good feeling which the Order inculcates." February 9th he advised of the installation of the officers of Excelsior and Harmony Lodges and Polynesia Encampment, transmitted the returns and dues and advised that: "The Order here is progressing favorably; the very unpleasant feeling existing between the two Lodges has, in a great measure, subsided, and I shall use my utmost endeavors to obliterate the same and promote the friendship which the Order inculcates. What a loss to the Order at large the death of Bro. Porter will be! We in this out of the way spot feel as if we had lost a personal friend, and so, I presume, will be the sentiment in other places. None of our members who visited San Francisco and met his kindly grasp will soon forget him; and should I ever visit the Grand Lodge again I shall miss his warm welcome, as he was a true friend of mine;" and March 8, 1878, acknowledging letter from this office of 20th of December, he remarked: "What a loss the Order has sustained in the death of Bros. Porter and Stuart; they have left a record which we may well take for an example. I am proud to say, that in my opinion, the Order has been a power for good in this jurisdiction. Any person known as a member of the Order here has a passport recognized by the best society. We have contributed our share to the advancement of the people. As a matter of course, we have had black sheep in our fold, but not to remain any length of time. The Order has been foremost to relieve distress when called upon, and I hope we shall be able to do more for the cause of humanity. I am glad to be able to report a better feeling existing in the two Lodges, and I shall not weary in my efforts to promote harmony among the brethren in this jurisdiction. We were looking forward with pleasure for a visit from the Grand Sire on his way to Australia, as the steamers touch here, and had a committee appointed to receive him. I now see that Bro. J. B. Harmon, D. G. Sire, will go on the mission, and I hope that we can persuade him to spend a week or more with us, for his visit will do the Order good. It will be the first time the Lodges have had the honor to entertain a Grand Officer. We felt a little hurt that this jurisdiction was not thought of in sending a Grand Officer to Australia, by resolution of the Grand Lodge, for we are on the road. Is it hoping too much when we look forward to a consideration of the color question at the next session of the Grand Lodge? We should be allowed to initiate Hawaiians, whom we meet daily in society."

This letter was answered March 28th, saying: "Bro. Harmon proposes to stop at your island, and make such delay as circumstances will permit. It was no want of respect for your Lodges, or want of interest in their welfare, which comparatively ignored your jurisdiction in sending a Special Commissioner to Australia, particularly as you are upon the highway to that country; but it was not the subject of special thought. The M. W. Grand Sire has, however, taken care to cause the Special Commissioner to tarry by the way at your island, and render such service to the Order there as may be in his power. Touching your suggestion on the 'color question,' I reply that I fear the Grand Lodge of the United States will not depart from what appears to be its fixed policy. A great deal has been wrought in the matter of public opinion on the subject, but much more remains for time and enlightenment to accomplish."

A letter from D. D. G. Sire Parke, April 15th, refers to an error in the report of Lodge No. 1, and his letter of April 23d advised of the arrival of Bro. Harmon, and his stay of a few hours, with a promise to remain a longer page 79 time on his return. The latest advice is dated June 26th, inclosing a corrected report of Excelsior Lodge.

Brother C. S. Bartow, Sept. 3, 1877, advised: "The disputes and discord which seemed for a time to threaten a dissolution of the Order have subsided, and for the present wo dwell together in harmony;" and Bro. D. N. Flitner, on the 8th of October, said: "The Order here is still on the increase, and the prospects for the future appear encouraging;" and on the 5th of November he advised: "No further change has taken place in the position of affairs here, and I look anxiously forward to the time when the last obstacle to a warm and fraternal regard for the welfare of each other shall be removed from between the two Lodges." On the 4th of December he advised of the receipt by Bro. Parke of commission as D. D. G. Sire, and spoke in strong terms of commendation of the ability of the new officer and the wisdom of the selection, and a final letter, dated April 13th, was received May 4th, which advised that he had for some time been in bad health.

These letters were duly answered Sept. 29th, Dec. 1st, 1877; Jan. 2d and May 5th, 1878.

Switzerland.—We received the annual report of the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Switzerland, for the year 1877, on the 23d of March, which presents the Order in that jurisdiction in a highly satisfactory condition, notwithstanding the trying ordeal to which the times have subjected every beneficial organization, in this as in other countries. Some matters of importance have been the subjects of correspondence, as will appear by the extracts from the numerous letters received and answered during the year, herewith submitted.

Bro. Hermann Vogel, R. W. G. Secretary, wrote September 11, 1877 (received September 27th), acknowledging letter from this office of July 30th, and said: "We lately heard that the R. W. G. L. of Germany has sent you a petition for permission to print the books and cards in Germany. The G. L. of Switzerland joins heartily in this petition."

In reply, Bro. Vogel was informed that "the G. L. of U. S. declined to grant permission to the G. L of the German Empire to print the books and cards, hence supplies must be procured from this office."

September 22d, the G. Secretary advised of forwarding copies of the "Herz und Hand," of August 15, 1875, and June 1st and 15th, 1876, containing the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Switzerland at the Annual Sessions of 1875 and 1876. He also stated that in October two Lodges would be instituted, viz.: No. 8 at Luzern and No. 9 at Schaffhausen.

October 19th, Commission and P. W's were sent to Bro. Rudolph Aschmann, D. D. G. Sire.

November 3d, Bro. Vogel acknowledged receipt of letters from this office, and remarked: "Several weeks ago we learned that the G. L. of G. E. was refused the privilege of printing the books, cards, etc., in Germany, but were granted the favor of receiving those articles at cost price. As we consider ourselves entitled to the same privilege for the Swiss jurisdiction, we request you very kindly to apply the above resolution, as an exception, retrospectively to our account, as the prices of the books and cards, especially of the Charge and Degree Books, were, in comparison with our rates here, enormously high and exaggerated, considering that the books for which we have to remit two dollars each (besides the expense for freight and duty) could be had here for two francs, that is one-fifth of your rate. You will please remember that we have to furnish these books to new Lodges which are taxed very heavily for the necessary preparations for working, and they find the charge of 44 francs for the four books (your last consignment, including freight and duty, amounted to this sum) very onerous and discouraging. The monetary affairs, wages, etc., are here entirely different from the United States, and the Order in Switzerland is yet young and financially weak. Besides, our Grand Lodge, during the three years of its existence, has had so many expenses, that with the best intentions, it has page 80 been impossible for it to assist new Lodges by reducing the Charter fees. We therefore beg leave to request you kindly to furnish us hereafter with books and cards at cost price, the same as the G. L. of the German Empire, and extend the same favor to the two last bills, July, 1875, and July, 1877. Trusting this request will be granted, and desirous of remitting without further delay the proper amount due the G. L. of U. S., I beg you will inform us what reduction will be made on those two invoices. We regret the necessity of informing you that the Grand Lodge was compelled to dissolve Rousseau Lodge, No. 4, at Biel, on the 7th of October, for inability to fulfil their duties, as upon examination it was found that the financial condition and local causes required the Lodge to be closed.

"I have the pleasure of informing you that Waldstaetter Lodge, No. 8, was instituted at Luzern, October 27th, in the presence of guests from all parts of Switzerland. This Lodge is founded on a solid basis and justifies the most favorable expectations. Rheinfall Lodge, No. 9, will be instituted this or next month, and the indications are that it will become a flourishing nursery for our beloved Order."

On the 7th of December, Bro. Vogel was informed that "the request that the resolution to furnish supplies at cost to the G. L. of G. E. be extended to your Grand Lodge retroactively, so as to include the outstanding amount, however equitable may be the claim for it, and however ably presented in your argument in its behalf, I regret to say, is by no means within my power. The Grand Lodge alone has power in the premises to deal with the subject to the extent to which you ask relief, which virtually means to discharge the debt. So far as regards giving you the benefit of cost prices for future supplies, we would not hesitate to place all foreign jurisdictions which would ask it, upon such equal footing. But beyond that, we dare not presume to venture The bill, therefore, of July, 1875, amounting to $50, must be paid, unless you apply to the G. L. of U. S for the relief sought, which I presume, if placed upon the ground taken in your letter, will be generously considered."

Under date of November 22, 1877, Bro. Rudolph Aschmann, D. D. G. Sire, acknowledged receipt of commission and P. W's.

December 21st, Bro. vOgel was advised of the shipment of Revised Journal of 1877.

On the 26th of January, Bro. Vogel wrote: "We regret to learn that you cannot grant any reduction upon the cost of the books and cards sent to us, and that our only recourse will be to petition the G. L. of U. S. to furnish us supplies at cost price. We therefore send you a draft for $50 to balance your account against us for the 20 books, 40 cards, and express charges paid on the same, furnished us July 6, 1875, and we hope to be excused for so long delaying this matter.

"I now advise you that Rheinfall Lodge, No. 9, was instituted at Schaffhausen, December 8th. The interest manifested by the Swiss and German Lodges rendered the occasion one of considerable importance.

"I received on the 19th inst. the Revised Journal of G. L. of U. S., and on the 15th I sent to you a copy of the 'Herz und Hand,' containing the Proceedings of the G. L. of Switzerland, October 7, 1877. The Proceedings, as I informed you Sept 22d, have not been printed in pamphlet form, on account of the expense, the Grand Lodge having decided to publish them in the 'Herz und Hand.' At the next session (April) I will offer a motion for annulling the said resolution, upon the ground chiefly that foreign Grand Lodges send their Proceedings to us in book form and expect ours in return in the same form for their libraries. Mere newspaper copies are of little use, as in the first place they contain much more than our Proceedings, and in the next place the actual Proceedings are generally given in a condensed form. I will strive in the future to meet your wishes in this particular."

On the 19th of February the Grand Secretary was informed that "I think you misunderstood the letter from this office of Dec. 7, 1877. If you will refer to the document, you will see that the G. C. and R. Secretary expressed page 81 a willingness to place all foreign jurisdictions upon an equal fooling as far as future orders are concerned. To make the reductions apply to bills contracted previous to September, 1877, was not in our power, and such concession has not been made to any jurisdiction. I repeat, therefore, that such books, cards, etc., as you may now order will be sent to you at the same prices as ice charge the Grand Lodge of the German Empire. The copy of 'Herz und Hand,' mentioned is received. We concur in your views concerning the publication of the Journal of your Grand Lodge, as we are satisfied a pamphlet copy will be more satisfactory than a newspaper sketch of the transactions."

Grand Secretary Yogel's letter of March 8th, accompanying the annual report of the Grand Lodge of Switzerland, reached this office March 23d. He said "You will perceive that our dear Order is in good standing in Switzerland, and is making favorable progress notwithstanding the very hard times through which we are passing. I did indeed misunderstand your letter of December 7th concerning the price of supplies, and in the name of the Grand Lodge of Switzerland I thank you for placing us on equal footing with the G. L. of the German Empire."

The above was duly acknowledged on the 30th of March. On the 6th of April we received the following letter:

Office of the G. Secretary of the G. Lodge of Switzerland, Zurich,

I had the honor to write to you on the 8th inst., and on account of a sad occurrence am obliged to again address you.

Our Grand Lodge, Fellenberg Lodge, No. 3, at Berne, and the entire Order in Switzerland have met with a great loss by the death of our dear friend and brother, Rudolph Aschmann, Grand Representative and D. D. G. Sire, who departed this life on the 18th inst, after a brief illness of a few days' duration, at Richtersweil (Lake of Zurich), aged 41 years. He occupied for eleven years the position of Secretary of the Legation of the United States at Berne, and the day of his decease there arrived from Washington advice of his nomination for Consul of the United States at Berne. He was buried at Richtersweil on the 21st inst., his funeral being largely attended by people from all parts of the country, as he was highly esteemed by everybody for his pure character and generous sympathies.

Yours very truly in F., L. & T.,

Hermann Yogel,

Grand Secretary.

This letter was immediately acknowledged, expressing great regret for the loss of so distinguished an Odd Fellow and fellow-citizen, and advising that the G. Sire would in due time appoint a D. D. G. Sire to fill the vacancy.

The following from Bro. Vogel, dated April 20th, addressed to the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of the U. S., was received May 6th:

"I inclose a duplicate report of the Grand Lodge of Switzerland, from which you will see that the past year has been quite favorable, notwithstanding Rousseau Lodge, No. 4, with 27 members, was dissolved. The actual increase in this jurisdiction was 46, and but for the unexampled stagnation of business we would have been able to present a still more favorable exhibit. During the year 82 have been admitted to the Order, certainly a good work considering our limited opportunities and the great difficulties we have had to contend with in introducing our Order among a class of people prejudiced against all associations, and particularly against secret societies. Even now, our undertaking has succeeded only in the Cantons composed of Germans and Northern people. We shall not, however, cease our efforts, and we hope, with more favorable times, to add both the French and Italian Switzerland to our jurisdiction. To this end I respectfully inquire whether there is any of our literature in the French language, that by the distribution thereof we might gradually introduce our principles among the French Swiss. I am aware that our ritual has been published in French, and I will page 82 avail myself of this advantage as soon as there is an occasion for the use of such books.

"With regard to the quality of our membership we can report most favorably. Our brethren seem disposed to become acquainted with the true intent of the Order; to adopt its principles as their guide and to exhibit the effects thereof in their everyday life. All the Lodges, especially the younger ones, are raising the standard of membership and are adding to the Order reliable active Odd Fellows. If less precaution had been used with reference to the admission of members, we could certainly have exhibited a much larger roll, but it is questionable if its welfare would have been correspondingly benefited, 'Slowly but surely advances our enterprise.'

"With the exception of the dissolution of Rousseau Lodge, the Grand Lodge was not troubled with any business of an unpleasant character, such as appeals, etc. The Grand Lodge takes pleasure in commending the Subordinates for punctually and faithfully fulfilling all their obligations, and for their zeal and self-sacrificing disposition. The Subordinates have been engaged with the project of an 'Assurance Fund,' and the plan will be presented to the Grand Lodge at its session, April 27th, at St. Gallen.

"We hope to present a better report for the current year than our last, and I shall continue as heretofore to present more detailed reports of our condition and working than were given until within the last year. We find it impossible to be represented at the Annual Sessions of the G. L. of U. S. on account of the expense. Perhaps we may secure a Representative at less cost in the person of a brother who resides in your country.

"As brothers who understand the English language are not often with us, our correspondence with you has been exceedingly difficult and necessarily curtailed; we therefore ask the favor of corresponding with you in German as does the Grand Lodge of the German Empire, and of receiving our answers in German."

On the 23d of May, Bro. Vogel was advised: "Your very interesting communication of April 20th, addressed to the officers and members of the G. L. of U. S. will be presented to that body at its next session, September 16, 1878. I have no knowledge of any publications of the Order in the French language. I mail to your address some copies of the Standard Tract, 'Odd Fellowship—what is it?' It may be advisable to have it printed in the French language.

"A Representative from your jurisdiction would undoubtedly be gladly received by the G. L. of U. S, and we hope you will be able to arrange for the attendance of one of your members.

"Your letters written in English heretofore, have been perfectly satisfactory, but if it will suit you better to write in German we cannot object. Our letters to the German Empire are written in English for the reason that we cannot depend upon getting a satisfactory translation of them here into the German language."

Bro. Vogel's letter of the 9th of May, advised that "the election for officers of Grand Lodge of Switzerland took place at the Annual Session held at St. Gallen, April 28th, and resulted in the choice of Gottlieb Maeder, No. 185, Schwanengasse, Berne, for Grand Master; Carl Imfeld, Ronca, Luzern, D. G. Master; Jacques Weiss, Basel, G. Warden; Hermann Vogel, Parkringstrasse, No. 5, in Enge, Zurich, G. Secretary; Jacques Huerlimann, Zurich, G. Treasurer. We await the appointment by the Grand Sire of a D. D. G. Sire for this jurisdiction."

This letter was answered June 10th, and on the 11th a commission appointing G. Secretary Vogel, D. D. G. Sire, to fill vacancy caused by the death of Bro. Aschmann, was transmitted.

The mail of June 13th, brought a letter from Bro. F. S. Ostheim, dated Berne, Switzerland, May 29, 1878, as follows:

"While on a trip to Southern Germany, I received a request from the G. Secretary of the G. L. of Switzerland to visit Helvetia Lodge, at Zurich, for the purpose of reciting the unwritten work and giving advice in matters page 83 concerning the Order in that jurisdiction. On the 25th inst. I repaired to Zurich and found the Lodge-room crowded with members and delegates from the different Lodges in Switzerland, who listened with the utmost attention to the words I uttered. I found that a determination to adhere strictly to our divine principles actuated every brother. The Past Grands of Nos. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9 alluded to the necessity of forming a Grand Lodge similar to the G. L. of the German Empire, and they desired me to be the interpreter of their wishes. They suggested that the G. L. of U. S. may now be more inclined to grant their prayers than before, when such a request was refused, on the ground that the number of Subordinates was insufficient to justify such proceeding. I informed them that one of the difficulties in the way of organizing such a Grand Lodge was the fact that they were not in possession of the Encampment degrees, and therefore the 'work and diagrams' of these exalted degrees could not be placed in their hands until an Encampment is instituted. Considering the expense of such a movement, and their desire to see the Subordinate degrees more developed, the brethren are not very anxious to establish Encampments, and they wish to be informed if there is any prospect of the G. L. of U. S., upon proper petition, granting a Charter for a Grand Lodge like that of the German Empire, without their organizing Encampments, that is, if some means cannot be devised by the G. L. of U. S. to fulfil their wishes. I was unable to give them any assurance of success, and submit their request to you with the hope that you will enlighten the brethren upon this subject. They are, however, if necessary, determined to establish an Encampment and will prepare a petition to the G. L. of U. S. as soon as your answer reaches them. The Order in Switzerland is advancing rapidly, and to reconcile the legislation to the manners and customs of this country the brethren desire the work and diagrams, and hope that the G. L. of U. S. may see proper at the next session, to grant them a new Charter.

"Please consult with the M. W. G. Sire, and inform G. Secretary Vogel of the result of your deliberations as soon as you find it convenient to do so."

On the 23d of June the following was transmitted to Bro. Ostheim:

"I lost no time in communicating the contents of your letter to the G. Sire, whose reply, dated 21st inst., is before me. He says, 'I would not hesitate to encourage the brethren in Switzerland to have an application before the G. L. of U. S. at the next session for a Grand Lodge Charter as an independent jurisdiction. The Book of Diagrams can be divided to be independent of the Encampment work. At any rate, it would be a proper subject for the action of the G. L. of U. S.' Thus you will discover the G. Sire's sentiments on the subject of which you write, and you will be wise in conforming the course of the brethren to these views. I think them eminently practical and in conformity to our best judgment. Your plan of movement is plain, and your intelligence will direct your course in the premises. Let the G. L. of Switzerland, with each of its Subordinates unite in a formal application to the next session for such a Charter, and I feel assured that the G. L. of U. S. will interpose no obstacle. Of course the Encampment branch will have to be included and provided for."

Bro. Vogel, on the 18th of June, said, "We wait with some anxiety your answer to the letter of Bro. Ostheim concerning the establishment of an Encampment in Switzerland, etc.," and on the 6th of July he was advised of the letter to Bro. Ostheim on the subject.

On the 11th of July, Bro. Vogel acknowledged the receipt of commission as D. D. G. Sire, and advised of the transfer to him of the papers of the office, by the family of our deceased Bro. Aschmann; also that he had sent to this office 30 copies of Journal of G. L. of Switzerland, to be forwarded to certain Grand Lodges that he named. He also said: "We anxiously await your answer to our petition for an Encampment in Switzerland, sent you the 28th of May by Bro. Ostheim, P. G. Sire, as we desire to take immediately the Encampment degrees at Stuttgart."

A reply to the above was mailed August 3d, remarking, concerning his page 84 reference to a petition for an Encampment: "The paper you refer to, is, we presume, a letter from Bro. Ostheim, dated May 29, 1878, but no petition was sent, consequently there was nothing on which to act, as he only asked for an opinion, which was communicated in a letter from this office, dated June 23d. I beg to suggest, however, that seven or more who desire to organize an Encampment should connect themselves with an Encampment at Stuttgart, or elsewhere, as may be most convenient, procure their Withdrawal Cards and sign the enclosed petition (after filling the blanks), and mail all to this office, or if thought advisable, and a competent brother can be found to proceed to Zurich (or wherever the Encampment is to be located), the M.W. Grand Sire may, on the reception of a proper petition, specially commission a brother to confer the Encampment degrees."

The mail of August 28th brought a letter from Grand Secretary Vogel, dated August 14th, as follows:

"Bro. Ostheim transmitted to our Grand Lodge your letter of June 23d, containing the answer of M.W. Grand Sire Stokes to our request for the independence of Swiss Odd Fellowship. The G. L. of Switzerland held at Luzern, on the 21st of July, an extraordinary meeting on this subject, and adopted the following: 'Resolved, That an application be made to the G. L. of U. S. at its next session for a Charter for a Grand Lodge as an independent jurisdiction in the same manner and analogous to the Grand Lodge of the German Empire, and the G. L. of U. S. be requested to exempt the Order here from organizing an Encampment, if possible. If, however, that Grand Body shall deem the institution of an Encampment indispensable, the Grand Officers of Switzerland are authorized to the all that may be required.'

"The petition is now being circulated among the eight Swiss Lodges, and is (according to the instructions of Bro. Ostheim) of the following tenor:

"'The petition of the undersigned Representatives and Officers of the Grand Lodge of the Swiss Republic and their respective Lodges, respectfully represents that at present they work under a Warrant granted by your Grand Body and they have 33 Past Grinds in good standing. They are of opinion that it would be of advantage to the Order to establish a Grand Lodge, in the same manner and analogous to the G. L. of G. E., in Switzerland. They therefore pray your R. W. Body to grant a Charter for such a Grand Lodge in the Republic of Switzerland, to be located at Zurich. There is no Encampment at present in this country. Provided the R. W. G. L. of U. S. should deem it necessary, we shall petition for an Encampment previous to receiving the Book of Diagrams and the secret work in case a Warrant should be granted.'

"This petition is now in circulation throughout Switzerland, and will be regularly signed by the Past Grand Masters of Switzerland, Officers and Representatives of our Grand Lodge with the seal, Past Grands not forming part of the Grand Lodge, Noble Grands and Secretaries of the Subordinate Lodges with the respective seals. I shall send you the document soon as possible, and I hope it will be found all right and without any mistake in the form. I fear, though, that it will not arrive in time for your session in September, as the circulation of it through the Lodges to get the signatures requires much time. In case the petition does not arrive in due time we request the G. L. of U. S. to authorize its Grand Officers to act in the matter according to circumstances, and at all events to take action on the subject.

"All expenses attending the Warrant and the Encampment shall be promptly paid as soon as I am informed of the respective amounts. We hope that the Grand Lodge, in consideration of our limited means, will reduce as much as possible these expenses.

"I send the cordial greetings of the Swiss Lodges to the R. W. Grand Lodge of the United States."