Modern Brotherhood of America

Modern Brotherhood of America
Initiation Ritual

1901

Costumes and Properties

King: Royal Purple Robe with detachable mantle. (This mantle to be removed and placed on Joseph in First Section).
Crown with Purple Top.
Sceptre.
Black Beard and Wig.
Joseph: (First Section) Brown Tunic and Chains.
(Second Section) Red and Gold Robe.
Crown Shaped Cap.
Councillor and Chaplain: Black Priest's Robe, white trimming.
Herald: Red and Green Armor Suit; Helmet and Sword.
Candidate: White Flowing Robe and Turban.
Guards: Red and Green Armor Suit, Helmet and Spear.
Escort: Dark Blue Flowing Robe and Turban.
Brothers: Plain Gray Flowing Robes.
Astrologer: Orange and Black Robe, High Cap, White Beard and Wig.
Jacob: White Flowing Robe and Turban. White Wig and Beard.
Robbers: Old Ragged Gown.

Section 2, "Degree for Women"
Candidate: Same Robe as Male Candidate.
Escort: Light Blue Robe and Head Dress, Canteen and Pouch.
Conscience: Flowing Black Veil over Head.
Friendship: yell ow Robe and Head Dress.
Love: Red Robe and He.ad Dress.
Prudence: Green Robe and Head Dress.
Floor Cloth: Circular Floor Cloth made in three colors, yellow, red and green.
Drill Team: The drill team shall be provided with twelve collars representing the units of Fraternity as: Friendship, Love, Prudence," Peace, Protection, Courage, Truth, Charity, Benevolence, Fraternity, Unselfishness, Unity. Any further costumes for the Drill Team may be optional with the Captain.

Opening Ceremonies

At the hour fixed in the By-laws the President will take his station and call the lodge to order. The other officers will repair to their respective stations and the members will take their seats.
PRESIDENT, standing, *: Officers and members, we have assembled here for the transaction of such business as may legally come before us.
Those present not entitled to a seat with us will please retire to the ante-room. Officers will clothe themselves in the proper regalia and assume their respective stations. Watchman, you will close the door and admit no one until the lodge is opened in due form.
WATCHMAN closes door.
PRESIDENT: Conductor, you will ascertain if all present are qualified to remain.
After the watchman has closed the door no one shall be permitted to enter the room until the meeting is regularly opened. It is the duty of the Conductor to receive the semi-annual and permanent pass words from every person present, reporting all without same to the President. In case a member is without the pass word the Conductor will report to the Worthy President as follows:
CONDUCTOR: Worthy President, brother (or sister) is without the pass word.
PRESIDENT: Worthy Secretary, is brother (or sister) entitled to the pass word?
SECRETARY, upon ascertaining whether he or she is in good standing answers: He (or she) is entitled to remain.
PRESIDENT: Conductor, you will accordingly instruct the brother (or sister).
CONDUCTOR, after investigation: Worthy President, I am satisfied that all present are entitled to a seat in this lodge. Takes his station.
PRESIDENT, **: Members, give the working sign.
All members give the proper sign.
PRESIDENT: We will now unite in singing the Opening Ode.

Opening Ode
Tune-Oh, for a closer walk with God.

We meet again while hearts disclose
A purpose great and good
To trim the lamps of love that glow
In our dear Brotherhood.

Its light points out the road we seek,
A highway rough and long;
A pilgrim's journey with the weak
Supported by the strong.

Oh! may its flame as years depart
Burn with a brighter glow;
So that our feet may ne'er depart
From duty here below.
PRESIDENT: Conductor, arrange the altar.
The Conductor will advance at right angles to the altar, open Bible at the book of Genesis, Chapter 41. After which he reports to the Worthy President.
CONDUCTOR: Worthy President, your orders have been obeyed. Returns to Station.
PRESIDENT: The Chaplain will now invoke the Divine blessing.
CHAPLAIN, advances to altar: Supreme Ruler, aid us in carrying out the great principles of this fraternity. May we so speak and ad that naught but good shall arise from our deliberations this evening. Let all forget the interest of self and make us worthy exponents of the brotherhood of man. Let us heed the cry of the distressed, let us "do unto others as we would have others do unto us.'' Watch over our brothers and sisters, that peace may be theirs. Let our love extend to the absent; may they fed that in spirit we are united, and though absent, that we will care for their interests as our own. Take this our humble offering, in the spirit in which it is given. Amen.
At the close of the prayer all members will respond: Amen.
PRESIDENT: Officers and members, what are the three cardinal principles of our order?
OFFICERS AND MEMBERS, answer in concert: Friendship, Love and Prudence.
PRESIDENT: Officers and members, by the authority vested in me, I now declare ... Lodge No. ... Modern Brotherhood of America duly opened. Watchman, instruct the sentry that the lodge is now open, and admit all persons entitled to a seat. ***.

Order of Business

I. Opening Ceremonies.
2. Roll call of officers.
3. Reading and approving minutes of previous meeting and
action thereon.
4. Excuse of officers absent at prior meetings.
S. Applications for membership in the order.
6. Appointment. of committees on applications.
7. Reports of committees on applications.
8. Balloting for candidates.
9. Ceremony of initiation.

Initiation
General Instructions

Great care should be taken in the selection of the degree team; always strive to bring the work up to the highest standard.
The Captain should instruct new members in the degree work so that the Lodge may at all times be able to get together an efficient team.
The Lodge room should be so arranged that all members can see the work without being themselves seen by the candidate. This is accomplished by hanging thin dark gauze curtains on both sides, and if desired at the head and foot of the Lodge room. These curtains should be suspended on rings on tightly drawn wires about eight feet from the floor. No light should be permitted outside of the enclosure during the initiation, as it could be plainly seen by the candidate and would mar the entire effect.
The curtain at the foot of the Lodge room should be parted in the center so as to admit of being quickly drawn apart, five or six feet, by a person in charge of that duty. The enclosure should be free from any furniture unless specially designated.
Leave platform in front in view to be used as a throne in Sections one and three. In Section two, curtain should be dropped to obscure throne. Keep light in enclosure down but so you can distinguish necessary details.
The degree can be conferred upon any number of candidates at the same time, except the second section, which must be conferred upon one at a time. In case there are a number of candidates and you wish to give but one or two the second section, the others may be admitted and seated outside of the enclosure where they can easily observe all that transpires. When the degree is conferred upon more than one candidate, great care should be observed in the use of plurals. Never address a number of candidates as if speaking to one.
Don't let the work' drag, commit your parts to memory and deliver in a clear declamatory style. Throw your heart into the work and deliver your part as you think a man or woman would who really lived through the scenes as given here.

Ceremony of Adoption
First Section

PRESIDENT: Conductor, you will retire and ascertain if there are any candidates in waiting.
CONDUCTOR, retires, and upon his return if there is a candidate in waiting, reports: Worthy President, I find a stranger in waiting.
PRESIDENT: The worthy Secretary will retire and collect fees.
SECRETARY retires, and upon return without ceremony reports to the Worthy President the names of the candidates.
PRESIDENT: Escort, retire and introduce the candidate.
When this is done the degree team will have everything in readiness to commence the ceremony of adoption; the actors costumed and at their stations.
ESCORT, costumed properly, retires to the ante - room and addresses the candidate as follows: Mr. (or title) ..., you have made application for membership in this lodge of the Modern Brotherhood of America. After careful consideration the committee has passed favorably upon your application and the members have concurred in their decision. None of the ceremonies of this order will conflict with your religious or political opinions or require anything your conscience would not dictate in carrying out the idea of the brotherhood of man.
Are you willing to proceed?
Candidate answers. He should then be dressed in long flowing robe according to requirements.
Escort, enters with candidate and places him at the foot of the Lodge room: Before we can pass the portals of this palace you must be one of us bound by the same fraternal ties, so many have taken. Are you willing to take upon yourself a solemn obligation?
Candidate answers.
ESCORT, presents candidate to Councillor, who is acting as Chaplain and occupies the Vice President's chair: Chaplain, I bring to you one who wishes to unite with us in the cause of humanity.
CHAPLAIN, to candidate: If this indeed be your true purpose you will raise your right hand and repeat after me without mental reservation of any kind.

Obligation

I, (repeat name) in the presence of these witnesses here assembled promise upon my most sacred honor that no desire, impulse, passion or any other consideration shall cause me to reveal any of the grips, signs, pass words, or any ceremonies that have been conferred, or that may in the future be conferred upon me, by the Modern Brotherhood of America, to any one not entitled to receive the same. That I will obey the teachings of its cardinal principles, FRIENDSHIP, LOVE and PRUDENCE. As love begets duty, so do I promise to faithfully obey all laws, rules and just requirements of this fraternity, emanating from the Supreme Lodge or any Subordinate Lodge of which I may become a member.
By the spirit of Friendship I feel myself bound, and do so promise, to assist and protect a worthy member in distress and respond promptly to any proper appeal for help from any member of this order if within my power to do so.
By the spirit of Prudence I will never, to any one outside of the order, express an opinion that would in any way reflect upon the integrity of its officers or any of its members, reserving any just or fancied grievances to the council chambers of the order.
I will use my best endeavors to increase its usefulness by encouraging its charitable, benevolent and social principles.
If I fail in this, my solemn obligation, may I be cast out of the fraternity, into the darkness, beyond the pale of these true men and women, who have banded themselves together in the cause of humanity, to protect the widow and the orphan and those dependent upon them.
ESCORT, faces candidate about; curtains at foot of hall are drawn open: I would enjoin you to heed well all that is about to take place; let your fancy soar to those times, thousands of years ago, during the reign of Pharaoh of Egypt, the lessons of which will be exemplified to you this evening.
At this time the blare of trumpets is heard and the Herald advances to a position at the right of the throne. Faces about and declaims in loud voice and very pompously.
HERALD: Now all ye assembled vassals and subjects of the most illustrious Pharaoh, you will be allowed for a short space of time to bask in the sunlight of his presence. Let all loyal subjects bend their knees to the most mighty sovereign, the ruler of one hundred and twenty provinces and the friend of the Gods.
Four Guards enter followed by King and Councillor. Guards form two on each side at foot of throne and cross spears like an arch, through which King passes followed by Councillor. After this Guards each step backward two paces and ground spears. The Herald takes his station.
Guards and Herald should stand immovable and look straight ahead, unless ordered or compelled by force of circumstances to execute any movement.
KING, standing: Your loyalty and devotion pleases me, but I am strangely disturbed this morning; a dream whose import I ken but little has broken my rest. I awoke and consulted the stars, but I, who am ruler over all, was refused light; again I slept but still the strange vision haunted me; again I arose and called upon the Gods to furnish a ray of light into the impenetrable gloom, but still I was denied. Angrily Wherefor am I King if my requests meet with such slight obedience? But now my request becomes a command and I command you to bring before me the Astrologer who has so many times proven faithful.
Guards retire and return with Astrologer.
ASTROLOGER comes forward and makes low bow before the King.
ASTROLOGER: Most mighty King you have commanded your servant and he hastens to obey. Pour forth thy troubles and with the aid of the stars in the firmament, I will foretell what shall befall.
KING: 'Tis well, arise and hear you the tale: I had but slept when lo, I beheld a fertile valley, watered by a magnificent stream; flowers, birds and beautiful foliage, all that delights a man who loves nature, abounded here in profusion. The grass was long and luxuriant, inviting to the weary traveler as the downiest pillow and the softest bed. Seven cows were grazing on the river's bank; peace, plenty and content seemed to be with them. Suddenly the scene changed; a flash of lightning, a clap of thunder and all was still ; the birds fearfully took their flight northward ; the foliage all shrivelled and the greensward became yellow and dry. Seven meager cows arose from the river and the other seven were swallowed by them. Then the vision faded and I awoke.
ASTROLOGER, goes through gesticulations as if imploring aid from on high, prostrates himself before the King and remains in that position for a few moments: Oh King, light fails to come in this dark moment; I have consulted, in vain and do not know what answer to give you.
The Gods are not propitious and mayhap a sacrifice of a hundred talents of gold on the altar of the Gods would serve to bring the light we so much desire.
KING, angrily: What, dost thou ask a sacrifice of gold? 'Tis ever thus; 'tis ever gold. Fiercely Suddenly a light breaks over me; he is a trickster who has long imposed upon my credulity, but I see him now in his true character. Away with him-let him be scourged to death. Guards seize the Astrologer and lead him away.
KING: Thus perish all imposters. Let an edict go forth today that henceforth all creatures of that kind in my kingdom be shorn of their powers and their treasure given to the state.
What say you, Councillor, in this matter?
COUNCILLOR: Most mighty King, I have long held in contempt these birds of prey. But I bethink me, there is one who could do much and to whom his people turn for advice and interpretation of their dreams; but alas h~ languishes in prison and perhaps may have died.
KING: Let him be brought here at once.
GUARDS at signal from the King march out at foot of enclosure and return with Joseph in chains.
JOSEPH, stands before King: Oh King, you have ·sent for me; I come, loaded with chains, but even then my heart holds no hate toward you, for it is part of our faith to look upon the trials and tribulations of this life as only an example of the righteousness of the Lord, and which his all-seeing wisdom ordained for his chosen people. Therefore, oh King, command me as you will and I will gladly obey.
KING: Thou hast spoken as a man, therefore, I honor you. I will propound a question to you and if you answer, wealth, position, and happiness shall be yours.
JOSEPH: Cease, oh King, the answer has already been revealed to me. Hearken, the seven favored cows represent the seven years of plenty, the lean cows represent the seven years of famine and desolation. If you are not provident and garner stores during the time of plenty, great suffering will come into the land, as even then the years of famine will swallow the product of the time of plenty. This, oh King, is the answer revealed to me.
KING: You have spoken with the tongue of wisdom. Let his chains be taken from him and this mantle be placed upon his shoulders; a golden crown upon his brow, for from this day, Joseph, you shall be second only to the King, throughout the land. Let the stores of grain be garnered and when the famine comes over the land, let us throw open our granaries to all the needy and destitute in this and other lands. For, Joseph, you have shown me that there is more than power and splendor to this life; something that is far more sweet and soothing to the soul, and that is, Love they neighbor as thyself.
GUARDS place mantle, which the King hands them, on Joseph and then march around the hall with him in their midst, and finally conduct him to the front of the throne, where, after red fire is lighted the King places the crown on his head. Curtain is drawn after the scene.
ESCORT: I hope you have profited by this lesson that has just been enacted before you. It has shown that the greed of one who had no thought of anything but personal gain, brought destruction to himself and unhappiness to his family; on the other hand you have seen one, who, though wronged, forgave his enemies and returned good for evil. Learn from this the lesson of brotherly love and if you ever find a brother who requires assistance give it cheerfully and the consciousness of having done a noble act should sufficiently repay you for any sacrifice you have made. We will now return to the ante-room, to prepare for further instruction in the mysteries of the order.
Retires with the candidate to the ante-room.

Section Two
General Instructions

In this section the curtain at the head of the Lodge room at King's station should be dropped.
The first part of the Second Section is to be used when the Candidate is a man. In this Section no rough work whatever should be attempted. The work is given to teach a lesson; coarse work as practiced is some initiations cannot but injure the self respect of the Candidate and mar the effect.
The second part is to be used when the Candidate is a lady.
When there are Candidates of both sexes on the same night, the first and third section may be given to all of them at the same time.
Escort takes Candidate, who is hoodwinked, into Lodge room and leads him about where obstacles are placed in the way of the Candidate, tripping him, but Escort should be careful never to let him fall for fear of injury. This scene can be prolonged according to the ingenuity of the Degree Team and a good many funny acts can be introduced here to prolong the rough and rugged journey through the desert. At the conclusion of this Escort addresses Candidate.
ESCORT: Many weary miles have we traveled through the desert and still no sign of a human being. It is hard thus to have the brightest hopes of life destroyed at the very moment when those dependent upon us need our assistance. Hunger gnaws at our vitals and thirst has parched our tongues, still we have but ourselves to blame for being improvident. Had we provided ourselves with the necessities of such a long and arduous journey, we would not have felt privation. Ah, what do I hear? Some horsemen are approaching. Noise is heard from the anteroom.
I fear they are some of the fierce tribe who inhabit an oasis somewhere near. Come, let us haste away or we will fare ill if we fall into their hands. Starts running Candidate about room. It is too late; we have been seen and they are bearing down upon us at a rapid pace.
Noise of tumult and clash of swords is heard. Robbers enter who handle Candidate toughly.
CHIEF: Here is some rare sport indeed; a couple of travelers who have had the hardihood to spy upon the Great Chief. Let this one, indicating Candidate stand aside: he looks too insignificant to be able to harm any of us. To Escort: Now, fellow, how came you here to spy upon us?
ESCORT: It is not true; we are but peaceful travelers and are upon our way to the land of Pharaoh where they have wisely provided against the famine.
CHIEF, pokes Candidate: This one indeed looks as if he were starving. Waste no further words; away with them and let them be destroyed. Taking hold of Candidate's arm. Bind him, lay him down and let us stone him to death.
Candidate is placed upon floor, and several large stones are rolled on the floor; hoodwink is opened so Candidate can see stones as they are rolled out. Make as much noise as possible in doing this. Robber takes imitation stone made of papier mache and holds it above his head as if to drop heavy stone onto Candidate. Second robber takes real stone and as the Chief commands drops it near Candidate.
CHIEF, angrily: You throw poorly; do you now try your hand. Indicating first robber. Drop the stone as I count. Robber stands astride Candidate holding Papier Mache stone aloft indicating its great weight.
CHIEF: One, two, three. At three the Robber drops imitation stone upon Candidate's chest. He is even too tough to stone to death; let us try other methods.
Robbers take hold of Candidate but at this moment Joseph's brothers appear and fight with them; after a short struggle the robbers flee. After Candidate and Escort are released Brother
speaks:
BROTHER: We have arrived opportunely; in a few moments life would have departed from you and your soul stood in the presence of your Maker. How came you in such a plight?
ESCORT: We were on a journey to Egypt to secure grain of which we are very much in need; but were beset by robbers who mistook us for spies and only your prompt assistance saved us from a horrible death.
BROTHER: My brothers and I are also on our way to Egypt for we too feel the hand of calamity. If you wish to journey with us we will share our provisions with you, for it is a maxim of my father's house to befriend the needy, aid and protect the widow and orphans. If. it is your desire to affiliate with us, do you promise always to hold the principles of this brotherhood sacred, subordinating self to the interests of the whole? We ask no more of you now as time presses and the hour is late, so with this assurance we will be content. Do you so promise?
CANDIDATE answers.
BROTHER: Supreme ruler of the Universe, we ask your blessing on him we have bound to us by the bonds of fraternal love; let him and his house grow and prosper. May we hear his advice in the Councils of the order for many years. Let him always judge his fellowman with patience; let fairness characterize his actions and let him write the faults of his brothers upon the sands, and as the wave effaces all traces, so let a wave of love cause anger to disappear and drive rancor from the heart. Petty strife makes people miserable, and ruins the happiness that is the heritage of all men. Live in peace with your neighbor and remember a gentle word is never lost, but planted in the rich soil of a human heart bears fruit that you can liken to the lily in purity, and the glow of happiness that warms the heart, is to it as sunshine to the flowers, and the heart quaffs a loving word as the petals of the flowers absorb the dew. Let peace and prosperity be with you.
At conclusion of this speech if Lodge has a drill team they enter at this time and Brother says:
BROTHER: Ah, here are some of our friends , representing the beauties and principles of our order. Alone in the world, the enemy might overcome them, but as you see them now, a united band, they will withstand all worldly attacks.
Takes Candidate to ante-room.

Second Section
When Candidate is a Lady

This form of initiation should be substituted when the Candidate is a woman. Escort (a lady) enters at foot of lodge room with Candidate. Has canteen and pouch slung over her shoulder.
Escort, enters with Candidate: Lost in the trackless waste of the desert; I fear beyond all human aid. We have strayed from the path; all traces of it are lost. Our precious store of food and drink is well nigh exhausted.
Falls on knee as if exhausted. I can go no further. Go friend, take these provisions, they may sustain you for another day, when you may find our friends. They will not suffice for two. Forces Candidate to take flask and pouch.
Father, mother, sister and brother await me. How hard it is to know that in this life we will never meet again. Adieu, friend, resume your journey. May happiness forever be your lot in life. Go! Escort points direction insistently and causes Candidate to move forward toward front of hall.
After Candidate has taken a few steps, Conscience appears from behind front curtain and says in authoritative tone of voice.
CONSCIENCE: Hold, hold, I say. I am called Conscience, how easily have you forgotten your duty. How have you repaid the unselfishness of your friend? You have thought but of yourself. You have deserted her in the hour of greatest need. No thought of sharing her danger, incurred but for your sake. Could peace ever be with you, knowing you left your friend to perish miserably? Go back, I say, share the flask with her. Listen to the voice of Conscience and obey.
Takes Candidate back to Escort and disappears.
ESCORT, arising: May Heaven bless you. You have returned to face danger with me like a true sister. By this act you have shown that you are indeed a worthy candidate to be taken into the full confidence of our great brotherhood. Is it your wish to become one of us?
CANDIDATE answers affirmatively.
ESCORT: Ah, but what do I see, yonder approaches a party of friends.
BROTHERS approach from the foot of the enclosure. The number of brothers is determined by the number of robes the Lodge possesses, but should. not be less than three nor more than ten.
BROTHER: We have found you at last. All day have we searched and had well nigh given up hope. Ah, but who is this stranger?
ESCORT: A friend who has just avowed her intention of becoming one of us.
BROTHER: Supreme Ruler of the Universe we ask your blessing on her we have bound to us by the bonds of fraternal love. Let her always be prosperous. May we hear her advice in the councils of the order for many years. Let fairness characterize her actions and let her write the faults of her brothers and sisters upon the sands, and as the waves efface all traces, so let a wave of love cause anger to disappear and drive rancor from the heart. Live in peace with your neighbor and remember that a gentle word is never lost, but planted in the rich soil of a human heart bears fruit that you can liken to the lily in purity, and the glow of happiness that warms the heart is to it as sunshine to the flowers. The heart quaffs a loving word as the petals of the flowers absorb the dew. Let peace and prosperity be with you.
In the center of the hall is to be placed a floor cloth which is the shape of a circle and is to be divided into three equal colors, viz: red, on which is to be painted the word "Love," yellow on which the word "Friendship" appears, and green with the word "Prudence" appearing on same. At this point the Escort conducts the Candidate to the floor cloth and places her immediately in front of "Friendship." The characters of Friendship, Love and Prudence have previously, while the brother is pronouncing his blessing, taken their positions on the cloth. After the Candidate is in position the Brother addresses her.
BROTHER: We approach an oasis on which dwells the spirit of Friendship. She is one of the guides of our beloved brotherhood.
Hail Friendship, we give you greeting. And here, indicating Candidate is one who is about to become one of us.
FRIENDSHIP: Dost know the meaning, truly,
Of friendship, blessed term,
It softens hearts unruly,
Sore tossed by passion's storm.
In illness, pain or sorrow
The friend is here to tell,
There always is a morrow
Of re-awakened joy.
Through life then let us wander
Let Friendship always reign
In age it grows the stronger
Unselfish to the last.
Then grasp the hand of a true friend
Unwavering all through life,
Let nothing happen that would rend
A bond so sacred, dear.
BROTHER: We have heard, Oh Friendship, and deeply your words sink into our hearts. Before we go, will you not bestow upon us a token which will ever keep bright in our memory the true lessons of Friendship?
FRIENDSHIP: I will give unto our newly made sister the hand. May it ever remind her of the duties of Friendship.
Gives Candidate her hand.
BROTHER: We will now go further on our pilgrimage, seeking the oasis of love. Arriving at station of Love. Oh, spirit of Love we come to you seeking a lesson in the true principles of love.
LOVE: Through centuries of time,
Love reigns supreme,
A gift of the Divine
Omnipotence.
Then look through history's page
What love has done
For man, calmed hate and rage.
Forevermore.
A mother's Jove for child ·
Endures forever;
Nor sordid thoughts defile
Its purity.
No thought of self occurs
In truest Jove.
The greatest thought that stirs
Is brotherhood.
Together let us band
Ourselves more firm;
To all stretch forth the hand
Of brotherhood.
Then cheerful let us sow
This seed of love,
To rich, to meek and low
Unselfishly.
BROTHER: Before we go may we not receive some token, which will cause us to remember the lesson you have taught us?
LOVE: Take this heart of gold and wear it Puts heart of gold, which is to be made of wood or brass and suspended on cord or chain, on Candidate but remember that your own heart appears infinitely more precious, when it is glorified with love. Adieu, and remember well my admonitions.
BROTHER: There is one more essential principle upon which our order is founded and that is "Prudence." Prudence lies in our path.
We will halt there next.
Arriving at station of Prudence. Will the spirit of Prudence tell us our duty?
PRUDENCE: May the light of Prudence ever
Your guardian spirit be;
That the fruit of your endeavor
Be shared by those you love.
Be prudent: 'Tis a virtue rare,
Provide while there is time-
For those you love beyond compare;
'Tis God's own blessed word.
For you know not what the morrow
Brings forth for you and me;
Maybe a tale of sorrow
For loved ones left behind.
Be prudent: and all care flies 'way
From terrors robbed, forsooth.
So take good care and work the day,
That night finds you secure.
Let Prudence, Friendship and sweet Love,
Your lot forever be,
The greatest blessings from above,
Given us, eternally!
As Love and Friendship have invested you with their tokens, so do I now give you this key. Take it, and may it be symbolical of the care with which you guard your interests. I can but once more say, be prudent.
The key that is given to the candidate can be made of wood and gilded. It is to be about eight inches long and suspended on a gold cord.
BROTHER: Let us go further on our journey toward the land of plenty.
Enter degree team, ladies or gentlemen, or both.
Ah, here are more of our friends representing the beauties and principles of our order. Alone in the world the enemy might overcome them, but as you see them now, a united band, they will withstand all worldly attacks.
Takes Candidate to ante-room.

Section Three
General Instructions

The action in this section must be smooth and rapid or the work will lose its effectiveness.
The hall is to be arranged like the first section, showing throne in front and a pedestal at the side of the throne on which is placed a drinking cup; and which Councillor takes with him when he leaves.
At the end of the Section where all should appear in their modern dress, drop the curtain in front of the throne. The Herald and Guards will find it impossible to make such a rapid change; they should retire to the ante-room during the storm of thunder and general tumult. But the members of the team who wear loose flowing robes will find no difficulty in making a quick change.
The position of the Herald should be the same as in the first Section.
Escort and brothers enter with Candidate from anteroom and remain at foot of lodge room.
HERALD: Joseph, the King's anointed, comes. He has brought peace and blessings upon the land; his wisdom has saved the people of Egypt from famine. Glory be to him. Hail, All, Hail!
JOSEPH, accompanied by Guards, enters from foot of hall and takes his place on throne. Same form of entrance as Pharaoh in Section one.
HERALD: Most illustrious sir, without wait strangers who crave an audience.
JOSEPH: Bid them enter.
Escort and 'Brothers advance with Candidate. Candidate's hoodwink is open, and he stands before the throne.
JOSEPH: Ah, you have returned, and did you bring the youngest born of your father's house?
BROTHER: Ay, sir. Though his father would fain have refused. He is his heart's joy and should he not return his father's heart would be broken; aye, I have even sworn to bring him back safe and well, though I give my very life in defense of his. Also do I bring back the gold we found in our sacks on our return home, fearing you did not know that by some mistake it had been put there. And see, we bring as much again for a new supply of grain, for our stores have again run low and must be replenished.
Hands Joseph bag of gold.
JOSEPH: Well have you done. To Councillor: Let their bags be refilled and a feast be prepared for them. Let him indicating Benjamin assist in storing the grain in the bags. Councillor and Benjamin leave. Now friends let us drink the health of the aged father who so eagerly awaits your return. Turns to lift cup which stood on a pedestal at his side but which Councillor has taken with him; rises and says in loud voice: There is a thief within the walls, but now my drinking cup stood by my side. Someone has stolen it. Guards, search every one and let the guilty pay the penalty.
Guards make pretense of searching all present and return to position.
FIRST GUARD: Illustrious sir, we have searched all and are unable to find a trace of it.
COUNCILLOR, drags in Benjamin, who prostrates himself at Joseph's feet; Councillor pointing to Benjamin: There is the culprit. The cup was found in the top of his bag of grain.
JOSEPH: Infamous. To thus bite the hand that was stretched forth to you in friendship. Away with him; let a gibbet be built, there he will pay the penalty and let his carcass become the food of carrion. When the sun has risen to its zenith, he shall be no more.
BROTHER, falls to his feet and stretches forth his hands in supplication: Mercy, mercy. I have sworn he shall return. Rather would I lay down my life than set my face towards home without him. Let my life be forfeited, but spare him.
JACOB, totters forward from foot of lodge room: Benjamin, my son. Wherefore is this new misery visited upon my head?
BROTHERS: Father here?
JACOB: Yes. I had no rest and followed here and now I find my worst fears realized.
JOSEPH, stretches forth his arms to Jacob: Father!
JACOB, dazed: Who calls me father?
JOSEPH, vehemently: Say you know me, father. I am Joseph, your long lost son. See, I am not dead. The hand of the Almighty saved me; it was His will that I should one day save my father's house from destruction.
Joseph descends from the throne and kneels at Jacob's feet, who places his hand on his head and remains in this position for some time; after this Joseph arises and addresses brothers: Benjamin is innocent; no crime sullies his fair name; I did it but to prove you, brother. Your father's trust was not misplaced. O, would that the whole world were brothers banded together in the cause of humanity.
Thunder or loud noises are heard and the Candidate's hoodwink is closed, noise of confusion continuing; all participants throwing off wigs, beards, robes, etc., and appear in their ordinary dress.
A VOICE: Away mysticism. Awake, ye dreamer from the sleep of centuries and find yourself living in the present. Hoodwink removed.
PRESIDENT, at station: My friend, you have lived through the scenes, exemplifying a brotherhood existing thousands of years ago. The same feelings which animated our forefathers still exists in the hearts of men banding them together in organizations like the one of which you have become a member this evening. You have seen portrayed an ancient brotherhood while you have been initiated into the. Modern Brotherhood of America.
Your desire for membership in our order shows that you are anxious to do your full duty toward those loved ones who are dependent upon you. I ask of you your careful attention while I instruct you in the secret work of the order.

Secret Work

PRESIDENT: In order to gain admission to the ante-room you will give any, ordinary alarm at the outer door. The sentry will open the door and to him you will give in whisper the semi-annual pass word, which for the current term is … (give word in a whisper).
This pass word changes every six months, and should never be communicated to anyone except the sentry in gaining admission to the Lodge room, or the Conductor at the opening ceremony. If correct, the sentry will admit you to the ante room, where you will invest yourself with the proper regalia.
On seeking admission to the ante-room, should you not have the regular and semi-annual pass words you will inform the Sentry, who will report the same to the President. Should you be in good standing, the President will order you admitted. On being admitted, you will proceed direct to the President's station and receive the pass word. If you are not entitled to the pass word, you will be so informed by the Sentry, and in that case you can not be admitted.
To gain admission to the Lodge room you will give ... raps at the inner door, which will be answered from within thus .... The Watchman will then open the wicket and to him you will give in a whisper your name, and number and location of your lodge, together with the regular pass word, which is .... This pass word never changes and should never be communicated to any person, excepting the Watchman while seeking admission to the Lodge room, while Lodge is in session, or, to the Conductor in the opening ceremony. The Watchman will report to the Vice President, who will order you admitted if correct.
Upon being admitted you will then advance by right angles to the altar, which is always situated near the center of the room, and give to the Worthy President the working or salutation sign, thus. Gives sign. The President will answer you thus. Gives answer. After which you will be seated.
Should you desire to leave the Lodge while in session you will advance by right angles to the Vice President's station and give to him the working or salutation sign, which if recognized by him, will permit yon to retire. Should you not be recognized you will again be seated.
The working or salutation sign is not only given upon entering or retiring from the lodge while in session, but is also given in the opening and closing ceremonies, and when addressing the chair.
The Grip is given thus.
Sign of recognition and answer.
Sign of warning and answer.
Sign of distress and answer.
Word of distress and answer.
The voting sign is given thus.
The gavel is the emblem of authority in the hands of the Worthy President.
1 rap calls Lodge to order.
2 raps: All arise.
3 raps seats the Lodge.
The fundamental principles. of the order are Friendship, Love and Prudence. May you always keep them in mind and thus prove a worthy member of this grand fraternity. To all stretch forth the hand of Friendship, let Love make mellow the heart, that you may love thy neighbor as thyself, and let Prudence characterize your every action. It is a virtue that has made all great actions possible; made men immortal and written their name on history's fairest page.
And now, by the authority vested in me, I declare you a member of ... Lodge, No. ... of ... Modern Brotherhood of America; entitled to all the benefits and privileges of the order. The lodge will now be at ease, while we welcome our new brother (or sister).

Order of Business (continued)

10. Bills and communications.
11. Report of relief committee.
12. Does any one know of a member sick or needing assistance, or any member's family in distress?
13. Report of special committees.
14. Unfinished business.
15. Recess: Collection of assessments and dues.
16. General business.
17. Has anyone anything to offer for the good of the order.
18. Introduction of visitors.
19. We will now hear the Treasurer's report.
20. Closing ceremonies.

Closing Ceremonies

PRESIDENT, *: Before closing let me admonish you that nothing in this world is perfect. We have considered well our business, and to our convictions acted for the best. Time alone will tell us if we have wisely carried out the' true principles of Friendship, Love and Prudence. If there be no further business we will proceed to close. Members will now join in singing the closing ode. **.

Closing Ode
Tune-The morning light is breaking.

Our meeting is now over,
Our parting song we sing;
To precepts of our Order
Oh! may we ever cling.
May we upon life's pathway
Seek for no grand applause,
But plead for truth and mercy
And fight in Justice's cause.

To sow the seeds of kindness
Within the hearts of men,
Cast bread upon the waters
That will return again;
Thus ever may we labor
By love we bear the Lord,
For he will aid and help us
And give us great reward.

PRESIDENT: Conductor, what is the last duty of your station?
CONDUCTOR: To collect the regalias and rituals, close the book of law and place them in the proper depository. Fulfills his duty.
PRESIDENT: Members, give attention while the Chaplain offers the closing prayer.
CHAPLAIN: Supreme Ruler, we pray Thee to bless whatever of good we may have accomplished at this meeting. We commend ourselves to Thy care and protection, and may Thy spirit look upon us, be gracious unto us, and give us peace now and forever more. Amen.
All members will respond: Amen.
PRESIDENT: Brothers (and sisters) in closing this lodge we are about to separate and again mingle with the outer world. May we always so conduct ourselves as to reflect credit and honor upon our beloved order. By virtue of authority in me vested I now declare ... Lodge No. ... Modern Brotherhood of America duly closed until our next stated meeting. Members will now give the working sign of the order.
Watchman, instruct the Sentry that this lodge is now closed.
As the Watchman retires the President says: To all, good night.