Translation of the Ritual into Foreign Languages.

As heretofore stated in this report, at the last session the Grand Sire and the Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary were authorized to have the manuscript translation of the ritual in the Holland language, presented by D. D. G. Sire Ostheim, "thoroughly and critically examined, and when page 97 found to be correct, that the same be printed." The Grand Lodge also authorized a translation into the Bohemian language and a new translation into the French language, "to be done under the authority and superintendence of the Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary, provided that the same be done without expense to this Grand Lodge, such translations to be reported to the next session." On this important subject I have to report, that shortly after the close of the last session, Bro. Ostheim requested a return of the manuscript furnished by him, for the purpose of revising and collecting the same. The translation was accordingly mailed to him, and was duly received and acknowledged. As appears by the correspondence, he returned the manuscript of the charge book on the 20th of April, and it is now presented to the Grand Lodge. No steps have been taken to have the work printed, because of the incapacity of the Grand Officers to cause the same to be critically examined and its merits passed upon.

A translation of the charge book into the Bohemian language was transmitted by Rep. Haskins, of New York, and is herewith submitted to the Grand Lodge.

On the last day of the session of 1877 (Journal, 7511), a German translation was received from the Grand Lodge of the German Empire, and the same is herewith presented to the Grand Lodge.

Normanna Lodge, No. 260, La Crosse, Wisconsin, proposes to furnish, in time for presentation at this session, a translation into the Norwegian language.

It is respectfully suggested that a proper compensation be voted to procure translations of the ritual into such foreign languages as may be thought proper, and that the scholarship, character, and standing of the author be deemed a satisfactory guaranty of the fidelity and sufficiency of the work when performed, to which end no person be employed except avouched for as amply proficient for the purpose.