Whilst at all times we shall be only too willing to insert correspondence upon matters pertaining to Freemasonry, we have decided upon adopting the following rule:—

Where any letter reflects in the slightest degree upon any lodge, chapter, or brother, the writer must attach his name and the name of his lodge for publication.

The Freemasons' Hall.

(To The Editor).

Sir,—The question of liquidating the debt on the Freemasons' Hall in Dunedin, is one which calls for immediate consideration. Owing to the depressed state of the times, members of the craft generally, cannot give largely in aid of the building fund, and three courses might be suggested:—I. That the wealthy members might immortalise themselves by liquidating the debt; 2. That a special programme be arranged so that all members of the craft and their friends could contribute, say by means of a popular carnival; or, 3. That the proposed Protective Policy be adopted by the colony, so that we could have "the boon of prosperity" anticipated by both protectionists and freetraders, as the immediate result of that policy, and members of the craft might themselves comfortably liquidate the debt. At the request of several friends, I have ventured to bring this subject under your notice. I may state that the number of protectionists in New Zealand is rapidly increasing, and my third suggestion may be regarded as appropriate.—I am etc.,

January 27, 1887.

A Masonic pound weighs 16 ounces, and is at least evenly balanced,

A Masonic bushel contains 231 cubic inches, and is filled brimfull.

A Masonic yard is 36 inches, and it is not shortened by the handling of the stick.

A Masonic ton is 2,000 pounds, and is not roughly judged, but conscientiously handled.

Gems.

Even true Mason is constantly in search after light, in search for Divine truth. This, and this only, is the Mason's work, and in obtaining it he receives his reward.

A true Mason is a quiet and peaceful citizen, true to his government and just to his country, nor will he in any way countenance disloyalty or rebellion.

A true Mason will be honest and upright in all his dealings. The square and its teachings will be the rule and guide of his conduct in all of his transactions, and in every respect he will be careful to avoid all unjust censure or reproach.

A true Mason will be ready at all times, so far as lies within his power, to assist a needy brother; he will consider his welfare as well as his own; in all his aspirations to Deity, his sorrows and his secrets will be respected. He will at all times speak as well of a brother behind his back as when in his presence; and when he is falling in character and reputation, be ready to render him assistance and support, kindly reminding him of his errors and aid in his reformation.

The true Mason believes in a Supreme Intelligence which pervades and animates all nature—the Infinite One—and will pay him that reverence due from a creature to his Creator. Nor will he use the name by which He is known to us in a light and trifling manner.