of the
institution, a desire of knowledge, and a sincere wish of being
serviceable to his fellow-creatures. Should his petition be granted, he
will cheerfully conform to all the ancient established usages and
customs of the Fraternity.

(Signed) A. B.

[2] In many Lodges this is put in the form of a question, thus: "Are
you willing to take an obligation upon you that does not affect your
politics or religion?" The promise "to conform," made before entering
the Lodge, the "assurance that the oath is not to interfere with their
political or religious principles" and the manner the obligation is
administered, only two or three words being repeated at a time,
consequently not fully understood, are among the reasons which have led
many great and good men to take oaths incompatible with the laws of God
and our country.

[3] Literally a rope several yards in length, but mystically three
miles; so that a Master Mason must go on a brother Master Mason's
errand whenever required, the distance of three miles, should he have
to go barefoot and bareheaded. In the degrees of knighthood the
distance is forty miles.

[4] In some Lodges the Master takes the candidate by the Master's grip
and says, "Brother, you will please rise," assisting him.

[5] There is much diversity of opinion among Masons respecting this
word; some insist that GIBLEM is the right word; others, that GIBELUM
is the right word; the latter word was rejected, because it was used by
"Jachin and Boaz."

[6] This charge is frequently omitted when conferring the degree on a
candidate, but never when really installing a Master of a Lodge.

[7] Here the brethren divest themselves of their jewels, sashes,
aprons, etc.

[8] The ark, which had been carried by two brethren in the procession,
is here placed on the altar.

[9] At these words the candidate is received into the procession.

[10] Here all kneel in a circle around the altar.

[11] At the words, "For He is good," the Most Excellent Master, who is
High Priest of the Chapter, kneels and joins hands with the rest; they
all then repeat in concert the words, "For He is good, for His mercy
endureth forever" six times, each time bowing their heads low towards
the floor.

[12] There is a great difference in the manner of giving the Royal Arch
word in the different Chapters. Sometimes it is given at the opening,
as above stated; sometimes they commence with the word GOD, each one
pronouncing a lette