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86
MANUAL OF THE LODGE.

transmitted, unimpaired, the most excellent tenets of our institution.[1]

The lecture closes by paying profound homage to the sacred name of the Grand Geometrician of the Universe, before whom all Masons, from the youngest E∴ A∴ who stands in the northeast corner of the Lodge, to the W∴ M∴ who presides in the east, humbly, reverently, and devoutly bow.

CHARGE AT PASSING TO THE DEGREE OF FELLOW CRAFT.[2]

Brother:

Being passed to the second degree of Masonry, we congratulate you on your preferment. The internal, and not the external, qualifications of a man are what Masonry regards. As you increase in knowledge, you will improve in social intercourse.

It is unnecessary to recapitulate the duties which as a Mason, you are bound to discharge, or to enlarge on the necessity of a strict adherence to them, as your own experience must have established their value. Our laws and regulations you are strenuously to support, and be always ready to assist in seeing them duly executed. You are not to palliate or aggravate
  1. This lecture on geometry is, perhaps, one of the oldest passages in our monitorial instruction. It originally constituted a part of an address, entitled "A Vindication of Masonry," delivered on the 15th May, 1741, by Brother Charles Leslie, before Vernon Kilwinning Lodge, in the city of Edinburgh.
  2. This charge is taken, with but very little alteration, from William Preston who first published it in his "Illustrations of Masonry."