M.M. Taylor’s Ritual of Craft Masonry
Third Degree – Master Mason

 
2000

Opening the Lodge in the Third Degree

The Lodge being open in the Second Degree, W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k. which is answered by S.W. and J.W.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who rises and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, are all those present M.Ms.? J.W. cuts Sn and remains standing.
J.W.: Brethren, have you all taken your Third Degree?
J.W. receiving no reply, gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: W.M., silence implies assent. Cuts Sn and sits.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, assist me to open the Lodge in the Third Degree. All rise.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, what is the first care of every M.M.?
J.W.: To see that the Lodge is properly Tyled.
W.M.: Direct that duty to be done. J.W. cuts Sn.
J.W.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, see that the Lodge is properly Tyled. I.G. cuts Sn, goes to the door and gives ks. of Second Degree. T. answers with similar ks. I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
I.G.: Bro. J.W., the Lodge is properly Tyled. Cuts Sn and returns to his place.
J.W. gives ks., Sp and Sn of Second Degree: W.M., the Lodge is properly Tyled. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: Bro. SW. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, the next care?
S.W.: To see that the Brethren appear to order as Craftsmen. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: To order, Brethren, as Freemasons in the Second Degree. All come to order with Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
W.M.: Bro J.W., are you a M.M.?
J.W.: I am W.M., try me and prove me.
W.M.: By what instruments used in Architecture will you be proved?
J.W.: The Square and Compasses.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., you being acquainted with the proper method will prove the Craftsmen M.Ms. by Signs and demonstrate that proof to me by copying their example.
J.W.: Brethren, it is the W.M.’s command that you prove yourselves M.Ms. by Signs.
All, except W.M. and J.W, hold Second Degree Sn, give Sp. and Sns. of Third Degree and hold
P. Sn.
J.W., having seen that the Third Degree Sp and Sns have been correctly given: W.M., the Craftsmen have proved themselves M.Ms. by Signs and in obedience to your command, I copy their example. Holds Second Degree Sn, gives Sp and Sns of Third Degree, and holds P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., I acknowledge the correctness of the Signs. Holds Second Degree Sn, gives Sp and Sns of Third Degree, and holds P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., as a M.M., whence come you?
J.W.: From the E, W.M.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., whither directing your course?
S.W.: Towards the W, W.M.
W.M. to J.W.: What induced you to leave the E and go to the W?
J.W.: To seek for that which is lost, which, by your instruction and our own endeavours, we hope to find.
W.M. to S.W.: What is that which is lost?
S.W.: The genuine secrets of a M.M.
W.M. to J.W.: How came they lost?
J.W.: By the untimely death of our Master, Hiram Abiff.
W.M. to S.W.: How do we hope to find them?
S.W.: With the Centre.
W.M. to J.W.: What is a Centre?
J.W.: A point within a circle from which every part of the circumference is equidistant.
W.M. to S.W.: And why with the Centre?
S.W.: That being a point from which a M.M. cannot err.
W.M.: Then, Brethren, I will assist you to repair that loss, and may Heaven aid our united endeavours.
ALL: So mote it be.
W.M.: Brethren, in the name of The Most High, I declare the Lodge duly open, all give P.Sn, the recovery coinciding with the word "Centre" on the Centre, for the purpose of Freemasonry in the Third Degree. All drop P.Sn.
W.M. gives ks. of Third Degree, followed by S.W. and J.W. I.G. goes to the door, gives ks of Third Degree and being answered similarly by T, returns to his place. During which time the S.D., assisted by the J.D. attends to the TB and both return to their places. I.P.M. adjusts S. and
Cs., displays or arranges the Working Tools of the Third Degree and returns to his place.
W.M.: To order, Brethren.
ALL, Brethren turn towards W.M. and all give G or R Sn: All Glory to The Most High.
W.M. then sits, after which the Brethren resume their seats.
 
 
Ceremony of Raising
 
The Lodge being open in the Third Degree, the Deacons place St. in positions The T, having prepared the Candidate, gives a report in the Second Degree.
I.G., advances an to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree: Bro. J.W., there is a report. I.G. holds P.Sn.
J.W., rises and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree: W.M., there is a report.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., enquire who wants admission. J.W. drops P.Sn. and sits.
J.W.: Bro. I.G., see who seeks admission.
I.G. drops P.Sn., goes to the door and opens it.
I.G. speaks to T. across the threshold: Whom have you there?
T.: Bro. … Cand.’s full name, who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry, Passed to the Degree of a Fellow Craft and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him to be Raised to the Third Degree, for which Ceremony he is properly prepared.
I.G.: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree?
T.: By the help of God, the united aid of the Square and Compasses, and the benefit of the Pass Grip and Pass Word.
I.G.: Is he in possession of the Pass Grip and Pass Word?
T.: Try him. I.G. tests Cand. by T. placing Cand.’s right hand in that of I.G. Cand. gives Pass Grip. T guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
I.G.: What is this?
Cand., T. dictates: The Pass Grip leading from the Second to the Third Degree.
I.G.: What does this Pass Grip demand?
Cand., T. dictates: A Pass Word.
I.G.: Give me that Pass Word.
Cand., T. dictates: Tubal Cain.
I.G.: Wait while I report to the W.M. Locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree.
I.G.: W.M., Bro. … Cand.’s full name, who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry, Passed to the Degree of a Fellow Craft and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him to be Raised to the Third Degree, for which Ceremony he is properly prepared.
W.M.: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree?
I.G.: By the help of God, the united aid of the Square and Compasses, and the benefit of the Pass Grip and Pass Word.
W.M.: We acknowledge the powerful aid by which he seeks admission; do you, Bro. I.G., vouch that he is in possession of the Pass Grip and Pass Word?
I.G.: I do, W.M.
W.M.: Then admit him in due form. I.G. drops P.Sn. W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k , which is answered by S.W. and J.W. Bro. Deacons.
I.G. goes to door bearing pr. of Cs and waits S.D., squaring the Lodge, is joined by J.D. in passing, both go to the door and wait A.D.C. follows S.D. to W, extinguishing J.W.’s light in passing, and places his Wand in J.D.’s stand. He puts k.s. in position and takes post at J.D.’s chair extinguishing S.W.’s light in passing. Except for the g.r. in the E, the Lodge is then placed in darkness. I.G. then opens door and applies the ps. of the Cs to Cand.’s n.b. S.D. takes control of Cand. by holding his r.h. and conducts him on to edge of S.P., while I G, having locked the door, raises Cs above his own head to show that Cand. has been admitted ‘in due form.’ J.D. positions himself at left of Cand and I.G. returns to his seat.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. as a F.C.F., first as an E.A. S.D. prompting Cand. by demonstration, both Deacons and the Cand. give Sp and Sn of First Degree and cut Sn, they then give Sp and Sn of Second Degree and cut Sn.
W.M.: Let the Candidate kneel, pause while the Cand. does so. Deacons assist Cand. while the blessing of Heaven is invoked in aid of our proceedings.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W. All rise and come to order with Sn of R. S.D. instructs Cand. to give Sn of R. The Deacons, standing slightly behind Cand, raise and arch their Wands above his head.
 
 
Prayer
 
W.M. or CHAPLAIN: Almighty and Eternal God, Architect and Ruler of the Universe, at whose creative fiat all things were made, we, the frail creatures of Thy providence, humbly implore Thee to pour down on this convocation assembled in Thy Holy Name, the continual dew of Thy blessing. More especially we beseech Thee to impart Thy grace to this Thy servant, who now offers himself a Candidate to participate with us in the mysterious secrets of a M.M. Endue him with such fortitude that in the hour of trial he fail not, but, passing safely under Thy protection through the valley of the shadow of death, he may finally rise from the tomb of transgression to shine as the stars for ever and ever.
ALL: So mote it be. All drop Sn of R.
W.M.: Let the Candidate rise.
The Deacons lower their Wands and assist Cand.
A.D.C. removes kneeling stool, recovers Wand and waits behind S.D. W.M. sits and Brethren resume their seats. S.D. takes Cand. by the right hand and commences to square the Lodge A.D.C., with J.D. on his left, follows. When level with the Secretary’s table J.D. halts, turns right and squares Lodge to his seat. A.D.C. continues behind S.D. and Cand. to his seat in the SE.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching NE corner: Salute the W.M. as an E.A.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn. of First Degree as they walk past W.M., both cut Sn. S.D. squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of J.W.
S.D.: Advance to the J.W. as such, showing the Sign. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of First Degree, both cut Sn, and communicating the Token and Word.
J.W. to Cand.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
J.W. rises and faces Cand.; S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of J.W., Cand. gives G., S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
J.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of an E.A.F.
J.W.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
J.W.: Give me that Word, in this instance freely and at length.
Cand., S.D. dictates: Boaz.
J.W.: Pass Boaz. Returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits. S.D. and Cand. continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching SW corner: Salute the S.W. as an E.A.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn of First Degree as they walk past S.W., both cut Sn. S.D. and Cand. continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching NE corner: Salute the W.M. as a F.C.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn of Second Degree as they walk past W.M., both cut Sn. S.D. and Cand. continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. at SE corner: Salute the J.W. as such, in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn of Second Degree as they walk past J.W.; both cut Sn. S.D. squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of S.W.
S.D.: Advance to the S.W. as such, showing the Sn. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of Second Degree; both cut Sn, and communicating the Token and Word of that Degree.
S.W. to Cand.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
S.W. rises and faces Cand., S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of S.W., Cand. gives G., S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
S.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of a F.C.F.
S.W.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
S.W.: Give me that Word, in this instance freely and at length.
Cand., S.D. dictates: Jachin.
S.W.: Pass Jachin. Returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits. S.D. conducts Cand. to NW corner of S.P., both turn to face E and wait.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, take notice, that Bro. … surname only. who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry and Passed to the Degree of a F.C., is now about to pass in view before you to show that he is a Candidate properly prepared to be Raised to the Third Degree.
S.D. takes Cand by right hand and again commences square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching NE corner: Salute the W.M. again as a F.C.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn. of Second Degree as they walk past W.M., both cut Sn and continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. at SE corner: Salute the J.W. again, as such, in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn. of Second Degree as they walk past J.W., both cut Sn. S.D. squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of S.W.
S.D.: Advance to the S.W. as such, showing the Sn. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of Second Degree; both cut Sn., and communicating the Pass Grip and Pass Word you received from the W.M. previous to leaving the Lodge.
S.W. to Cand.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
S.W. rises and faces Cand., S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of S.W., Cand. gives P.G., S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
S.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Pass Grip leading from the Second to the Third Degree.
S.W.: What does this Pass Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Pass Word.
S.W.: Give me that Pass Word.
Cand., S.D. dictates: Tubal Cain
S.W.: What was Tubal Cain?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The first artificer in metals.
S.W.: The import of the Word?
Cand., S.D. dictates: Worldly possessions.
S.W.: Pass Tubal Cain. Returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and remains standing. S.D. conducts Cand. by an anti-clockwise movement to left of S.W. and places Cand.’s right hand in S.W.’s left hand, S.D. ensures that Cand. faces E and then takes position at left of Cand.
S.W. raises Cand.’s right hand and without taking Sp gives Sn of F: W.M., I present to you Bro. … surname only a Candidate properly prepared to be Raised to the Third Degree.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., direct the S.D. to instruct the Candidate to advance to the E by the proper steps. S.W. drops Sn of F, returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits. S.D. with Cand. on his left, advances on to edge of S.P.
S.W.: Bro. S.D. who, without taking Sp gives Sn of F and turns his head to the right, it is the W.M.’s command that you instruct the Candidate to advance to the E by the proper steps. S.D. drops Sn of F and conducts Cand. towards the E and when opposite W end of open grave, turns with Cand. to face S, meanwhile, J.D., squaring the Lodge, takes position at left of Cand. S.D. then moves across to W end of open grave, and turns to face Cand.
S.D. to Cand.: The method of advancing from W to E in this Degree is by seven steps, three as though stepping over an open grave and f.b. or m.s.; for your instruction I will go through them, after which, please copy me turns to E. Place the feet to form a Square S.D. demonstrates, feet facing E; step off with the left foot S.D. steps forward to N side of o.g. and closes with r.f. to form a S, feet facing E; right foot S.D. steps forward to S side of o.g. and closes with l.f. to form a S., feet facing E; left foot S.D. steps forward to E end of o.g. and closes with r.f. to form a S., feet still facing E, S.D. is now standing midway across the Lodge and facing W.M.; f.b. or m.s. commencing with the left foot S.D. demonstrates steps and arrives in front of pedestal, he bows the head to W.M., turns right and, squaring the Lodge opposite Cand. returns to his former position facing S. S.D. takes Cand.’s right hand in his left and places him suitably at W end of o.g. Repeating the instructions, S.D. assists Cand. to take the three steps and together they then move forward by the f.b., or m.s. to the pedestal so that Cand. arrives directly in front of W.M., S.D. is on right of Cand. and J.D., squaring the Lodge at NE corner, takes position at left of Cand.
W.M. to Cand.: It is but fair to inform you that a most serious trial of your fortitude and fidelity, as well as a more Solemn Obligation now await you. Are you prepared to meet them as you ought?
Cand.: I am. Prompted by S.D., if necessary.
W.M.: Then you will kneel on both knees Deacons assist Cand., place both hands on the Volume of the Sacred Law.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W. All rise and without taking Sp, come to order with Sn of F. The Deacons, standing slightly behind Cand., raise and arch their Wands above his head.
 
 
Obligation
 
W.M. to Cand.: Stating your names at length, repeat after me: I, … Cand. states his full name, in the presence of The Most High, and of this worthy and worshipful Lodge of M.Ms., duly constituted, regularly assembled, and properly dedicated, of my own free will and accord, do hereby and hereon W.M. first presses the fingers of both hands on those of Cand., then lowers the palms of his hands on V.S.L., most solemnly promise and swear W.M. resumes Sn of F that I will always hele, conceal, and never reveal, any or either of the secrets or mysteries of, or belonging to, the Degree of a M.M. to anyone in the world, unless it be to him or them to whom the same may justly and lawfully belong, and not even unto him or them until after due trial, strict examination, or full conviction, that he or they are worthy of that confidence, or in the body of a M.M.’s Lodge duly opened on the Centre. I likewise solemnly engage to adhere to the principles of the Square and Compasses, to answer and obey all lawful Signs, and Summonses. I may receive from a M.M.’s Lodge, if within the length of my cable tow, pleading no excuse save sickness, or the pressing emergencies of my public or private avocations. I further solemnly pledge myself to maintain and uphold the Five Points of Fellowship in act as well as in word; that my hand given to a M.M. shall be a sure pledge of brotherhood; that my feet shall traverse difficulties and dangers to unite with his in forming a column for mutual defence and support; that the posture of my daily supplications shall remind me of his wants, and dispose my heart to succour his weakness and relieve his necessities so far as may fairly be done without detriment to myself or connections; that my breast shall be the safe repository of his secrets when entrusted to my care ― murder, treason, felony, and all other offences contrary to the laws of God and the ordinances of the realm being at all times most especially excepted; and finally, I will maintain a M.M.’s honour and carefully preserve it as my own; I will not injure him, or knowingly suffer it to be done by others, if in my power to prevent it, but on the contrary, will boldly repel the slander on his good name and most strictly respect the chastity of those nearest and dearest to him, in the persons of his wife, his sister, and his child. These several points I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation, or mental reservation of any kind. So help me The Most High and keep me steadfast in this, the Solemn Obligation of a M.M.
W.M.: As a pledge of fidelity and to render what you have repeated a Solemn Obligation binding on you so long as you shall live, you will seal it with your lips three times on the Volume of the Sacred Law. Cand. does so, Deacons then lower their Wands and all drop Sn of F.
W.M.: Let me once more direct your attention to the position of the Square and Compasses. When you were made an E.A.E, both points of the Compasses were hidden; in the Second Degree one was disclosed; in this the whole is exhibited; implying that you are now at liberty to work with both those points to render the circle of your Masonic duties complete. W.M. takes Cand. by both hands. Rise, duly obligated, M.M.
Deacons assist Cand.
W.M. sits and Brethren resume their seats. Deacons and Cand. move backwards to E end of the Cn and stand facing W.M.
 
 
Exhortation
 
W.M.: Now that you have taken the Solemn Obligation of a M.M. you are entitled to demand that last and greatest trial by which means alone you can be admitted to a participation in the secrets of the Third Degree; but it is first my duty to call your attention to a retrospect of those Degrees in Freemasonry through which you have already passed, that you may the better be enabled to distinguish and appreciate the connection of our whole system and the relative dependence of its several parts. Your admission into Freemasonry in a state of helpless indigence was an emblematical representation of the entrance of all men on this their mortal existence; it inculcated the useful lessons of natural equality and mutual dependence; it instructed you in the active principles of universal beneficence and charity; to seek the solace of your own distress by affording relief and consolation to your fellow creatures in the hour of their affliction; but, above all, it taught you to bend with humility and resignation to the will of The Grand Architect of the Universe, and to dedicate your heart, thus purified from every baneful and malignant passion and fitted only for the reception of truth and wisdom, to His glory and to the welfare of your fellow creatures.
Proceeding onwards, still guided in your progress by the principles of moral truth, you were led, in the Second Degree, to contemplate the intellectual faculties and to trace them, in their development, through the paths of Heavenly science, even to the throne of God Himself. The secrets of nature and the principles of intellectual truth were then unveiled to your view. To your mind, thus modelled by virtue and science, nature, however, presents one great and useful
lesson more; she prepares you, by contemplation, for the closing hour of your existence and when, by means of that contemplation, has conducted you through the intricate windings of this mortal life, finally instructs you how to die. Such, my Brother, is the peculiar object of
research in this the Third Degree in Freemasonry; it invites you to reflect upon this awful subject and teaches you to feel that, to the just and virtuous man, death hath no terrors equal to the stains of falsehood and dishonour. Of this great truth the annals of Freemasonry afford us a glorious example in the unshaken fidelity and noble death of our Master, Hiram Abiff, who was slain just before the completion of King Solomon’s Temple, at the construction of which, he was, as you are doubtless aware, the principal Architect. The manner of his death was as follows:
W.M., sounds his Gavel, one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Bro. Wardens.
The Wardens rise, give Sp and P.Sn of Third Degree and, holding P.Sn, leave their pedestals by left side, each bringing with him his respective working tool. J.W. steps forward, turns to face E in line behind S.D. and waits for S.W., who advances to the E direct from his pedestal and in line behind J.D. When S.W. has drawn level with J.W., both advance abreast to the E and, dropping P.Sn, displace the Deacons who move outwards to enable Wardens to assume control of Cand. The Deacons move backwards to W of the St, turn to face each other, exchange positions, S.D. passing to the E of J.D., and return to their seats.
W.M.: Fifteen F.Cs. of that superior class of workmen appointed to preside over the rest, finding the Temple nearly completed and they not in possession of the secrets of the Third Degree, conspired to obtain them by any means, even having recourse to violence. On the eve, however, of carrying their conspiracy into execution, twelve of the fifteen recanted, but three, of a more determined and atrocious character than the rest, persisted in their impious design in the prosecution of which they placed themselves respectively in the E, N, and S entrances of the Temple whither our Master had retired to pay his adoration to The Most High, as was his wonted custom at the hour of high twelve. Having finished his devotions, our Master attempted to return by the S entrance where he was opposed by the first of those ruffians, who, for want of other weapons, had armed himself with a Plumb Rule and in a threatening manner demanded of our Master the secrets of his exalted Degree, warning him that death would be the consequence of a refusal. Our Master, true to his Obligation, replied that those secrets were known to but three in the world and that without the consent and co-operation of the other two he neither could nor would divulge them, and intimated that he had no doubt patience and industry would, in due time, entitle a worthy Mason to a participation in them, but, for his own part, he would rather suffer death than betray the sacred trust reposed in him. This answer not proving satisfactory, the ruffian aimed a blow at the head of our Master, but, being startled by the firmness of his demeanour, it missed his forehead but glanced with sufficient force on his right temple J.W, with the P.R., touches Cand.’s r.t., making the movement from front to back as to cause him to reel and sink on his left knee J.W. whispers "kneel on your left knee" Wardens help him to do this and to return to an upright position. Recovering from the shock, our Master made for the N entrance where he was accosted by the second ruffian, who received a similar answer to his insolent demand, when the ruffian, who was armed with a Level, smote him a blow on the left temple S.W., with the L., touches Cand.’s l.t., making the movement from front to back which brought him to the ground on his right knee S.W. whispers "kneel on your right knee" Wardens help him to do this and to return to an upright position. Finding all chance of escape cut off at both these points, our Master staggered faint and bleeding to the E entrance where the third ruffian was posted, to whom he gave a similar answer with undiminished firmness, for even at this trying moment our Master remained firm and unshaken, when the villain, who was armed with a heavy Maul W.M. picks up the heavy M. from the pedestal struck him a violent blow on the forehead W.M. strikes the Gavel black with the M. which laid him lifeless at his feet. Wardens thrust Cand. on to the floor to cover the Cn and arrange his hs., r.h. on top. The Wardens then move backwards to two paces to the W of Cand.’s head, and face E, all rise and come to order with Sn of F. There is then a pause during which the Organist may play.
W.M.: Brethren, take notice, that tlroughout the recent part of the ceremony, as well as in his present position, our Brother has been made to represent one of the brightest characters recorded in the annals of Freemasonry, namely our Master, Hiram Abiff, who lost his life in consequence of his unshaken fidelity to the sacred trust reposed in him and I hope this will make a lasting impression on his and your minds, should you ever be placed in a similar state of trial. All drop Sn of F and sit.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, endeavour to raise the representative of our Master by the E.A.’s Grip. J.W. drops P.Sn. and passing behind S.W., squaring the Lodge, goes to right side of Cand, kneels on left knee, tries Cand.’s right hand with E.A.’s Grip and then replaces Cand.’s right hand in its previous position. J.W. rises and returns to his former position, facing E.
J.W., gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree: W.M., it proves a slip. Drops P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., who gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, try that of a F.C. S.W. drops P.Sn. then squaring the Lodge, goes to right side of Cand., kneels on right knee, tries Cand.’s r.h. with F.C.‘s Grip and replaces Cand.’s r.h. in its previous position. S.W. rises, squares the Lodge, and passing in front of J.W., returns to his former position, facing E.
S.W. gives Sp and P.Sn of Third Degree: W.M., it proves a slip likewise. Drops P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. Wardens S.W. and J.W. give Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, you both having failed in your endeavours, there yet remains a third method, which is by taking a firm hold of the sinews of our Brother’s right hand and raise him on the Five Points of Fellowship, and of this, with your assistance. I will now make trial. Wardens drop P.Sn. W.M. leaves his pedestal by left side and goes to Cand.; Wardens move forward and, positioning themselves on either side of Cand., assist W.M.. to raise him on the F.P. of F.; J.W. ensures that Cand. extends his l.h. correctly. At this point Cand. is facing E and W.M. the W.
W.M.: It is thus, my Brother, that all M.Ms. are raised from a figurative death to a re-union with the companions of their former toil.
W.M. moves Cand. two short steps away from the Cn, towards the N, Cand. faces S and W.M., standing about a yard away, faces him.
W.M.: Bro. Wardens who do not give Sp or P.Sn., resume your seats. S.W. and J.W. return to their seats.
 
 
Charge
 
W.M. to Cand.: I will now beg you to observe that the light of a M.M. is but darkness visible, serving only to express that gloom which rests on the prospect of futurity; it is that mysterious veil which the eye of human reason cannot penetrate unless assisted by that Light W.M. points to V.S.L. which is from above; yet even by this glimmering ray W.M. points to it you may perceive that you stand on the very brink of the grave W.M. points to it into which you have just figuratively descended and which, when this transitory life shall have passed away, will receive you into its cold bosom. Let the emblems of mortality which lie before you W.M. points to skull and cross-bones lead you to contemplate your inevitable destiny and guide your reflections to that most interesting of all human studies, the knowledge of yourself. Be careful to perform your allotted task while it is yet day, continue to listen to the voice of nature which bears witness that even in this perishable frame W.M. places b.hs. momentarily on Cand.’s lower ribs resides a vital and immortal principle which inspires a holy confidence that the Lord of Life will enable us to trample the King of Terrors beneath our feet and lift our eyes to that bright Morning Star whose rising brings peace and salvation to the faithful and obedient of the human race.
W.M. takes Cand. by b.hs and moves him round clockwise till each occupies the other’s place. S.D. rises and crosses the Lodge to take position at r. of Cand.
W.M.: I cannot better reward the attention you have paid to this Exhortation and Charge than by entrusting you with the secrets of this Degree; you will therefore advance to me as a F.C.F., first as an E.A., showing the Signs. S.D. and Cand. give Sp and Sn. of First Degree and cut Sn; both then give Sp. and Sn. of Second Degree and cut Sn. You will now take another short step towards me with your left foot placing the heel of the right into its hollow as before S.D. and Cand. take Sp and WM points to Cand.’s feet. That, my Brother, is the third regular step in Freemasonry and it is in that position the secrets of the Degree are communicated; they consist of Signs, a Token, and Words. Of the Signs, the first and second are casual and the third penal. W.M. takes Sp. The first casual Sign is called the Sign of Horror. and may be taken from a F.C.’s Hailing Sign; you will therefore stand to order as a F.C. W.M., S.D. and Cand. give Sn of Second Degree. Please copy me. It is given by dropping the left hand, palm outwards, thumb extended to form a Square, to the l.f. of the b., at the same time p. the b. of the right hand, thumb also extended to form a Square, over the l.t., s.i. the h. over the r.s. W.M. gives Sn of H, S.D. and Cand. copy him, as though struck with horror at some dreadful and afflicting sight W.M. drops Sn, S.D. and Cand. copy him.
The second casual Sign is called the Sign of Sympathy and is given by s.i. the h.f. and gently smithing the face with the palm of the right hand, thumb extended to form a Square, thus W.M. gives Sn of S, S.D. and Cand. copy him. The Penal Sign is given by placing the right hand, thumb extended to form a Square, to the lower c. of the body, drawing it sharply across, dropping it to the side, and r. on the C. W.M. gives P.Sn and drops it, S.D. and Cand. copy him. This P.Sn. alludes to the symbolic penalty at one time included in the Obligation in this Degree had a M.M. improperly disclosed the secrets entrusted to him. It implied that, no further demonstration of the Sn as a man of honour, he would rather have been severed in two the bowels burned to ashes, and those ashes scattered over the face of the earth and wafted by the four cardinal winds of Heaven so that no trace or remembrance of so vile a wretch might longer be found amongst men, particularly M.Ms.
W.M.: The Grip, or Token, is the first of the First Point of Fellowship which are Hand to Hand, Foot to Foot, Knee to Knee, Breast to Breast, and Hand over Back., and may thus be briefly explained. Hand to Hand W.M. moves towards Cand., gives the G, and ensures that it is correctly given by Cand., I greet you as a Brother, and this is the Grip of a M.M. W.M. maintains G.; Foot to Foot W.M. demonstrates and Cand. responds with corresponding Sp I will support you in all your laudable undertakings; Knee to Knee W.M. demonstrates and Cand. responds, the posture of my daily supplications shall remind me of your wants; Breast to Breast W.M. demonstrates and Cand. responds your lawful secrets when entrusted to my care I will preserve as my own, and Hand over Back W.M. demonstrates and Cand. responds, S.D. ensures that Cand. extends his left hand correctly, I will support your character in your absence as in your presence. It is in this position, and then only in a whisper, except at certain times in open Lodge, that the Words of a M.M. are given. They are Machaben or Machbinna. Cand repeats the w. Wds., both Words having a similar import, one signifying the death of the Builer and the other, the Builder is slain. W.M. releases Cand. and moves back.
W.M.: You are now at liberty to retire in order to restore to yourself your personal comforts and on your return to the Lodge, these casual Signs, Token and Words will be further explained and the ceremony continued. As W.M. returns to his seat, S.D. and Cand. face E.
Then S.D. with Cand,, squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to NW corner of S.P. and, by a clockwise movement both face E.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. in the three Degrees, first as an E.A. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of First Degree and cut Sn, both then give Sp and Sn of Second Degree and hold Sn, both then give Sp and Sns of Third Degree and drop P.Sn.
S.D. conducts Cand. to the door which has been opened by I.G. and Cand. leaves the Lodge to re-attire, I.G. locks door and returns to his seat.
Full lighting is restored. Deacons remove the St. and return to their seats.
When Cand is ready to re-enter the Lodge, T. gives a report, one k.
I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn of Third Degree: Bro. J.W., there is a report.
J.W. having obtained silent consent from W.M., gives one k., I.G. drops P.Sn, goes to door and opens it.
I.G. speaks to T. across the threshold: Whom have you there?
T.: Bro. … surname only on his return.
I.G.: Wait while I report to the W.M. Locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree.
I.G.: W.M., Bro. … surname only on his return.
W.M.: Admit him Bro. I.G. I.G. drops P.Sn.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Bro. S.D. I.G. goes to the door and waits. S.D. squaring the Lodge, goes to the door which is opened by I.G.; Cand. enters and is conducted by S.D. on a edge of S.P., both face E; I.G. locks door and returns to his seat.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. as a M.M., Penal Sign only. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and P.Sn of Third Degree and drop it. S.D. conducts Cand. by an anti-clockwise movement to left of S.W., who rises; S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in S.W.’s left hand; S.D. ensures that Cand. faces E and then takes position at left of Cand.
S.W. raises Cand.’s right hand and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree: W.M., I present to you Bro. surname only on his being Raised to the Third Degree, for some further mark of your favour.
D.C. comes forward bearing M.M.‘s badge on a cushion and presents it to W.M.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., I delegate you to invest our Brother with this W.M rises, picks up badge and exhibits it to the Brethren, the distinguishing badge of a M.M. S.W. drops P.Sn. and releases hand of Cand. W.M. replaces badge on cushion and sits. D.C. carries cushion to right of S.W, who picks up badge, S.D. turns Cand. to face S.W. and as S.W. places new badge in position. S.D. withdraws the F.C. badge and places it on the cushion held by the D.C. who has moved across to receive it. S.D. then assists S.W. if necessary. Meanwhile, D.C., squaring the Lodge, returns to his seat.
S.W. holding right hand lower corner of Cand.’s badge with his left hand: Bro. … surname only, by command of the W.M. I invest you with the distinguishing badge of a M.M., to mark the further progress you have made in the science. Please pay attention to the W.M.
S.W. sits.
S.D., again taking charge of Cand., conducts him on to edge of S.P. and both face E.
W.M.: I must state that the badge with which you have now been invested not only points out your rank as a M.M. but is meant to remind you of those great duties you have solemnly engaged to observe and while it marks your own superiority in the Craft, it calls upon you to afford assistance and instruction to the Brethren in the inferior Degrees.
W.M.: Bro. S.D. who gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, place our brother in the centre of the Lodge. S.D. drops P.Sn. and squaring the Lodge at Secretary’s table, conducts Cand. to a point midway across the Lodge and both stand facing W.M.
W.M. to Cand.: We left off at that part of our traditional history which mentions the death of our Master, Hiram Abiff; a loss so important as that of the principal architect could not fail of being generally and severely felt; the want of those plans and designs which had hitherto been regularly supplied to the various classes of the workmen, was the first indication that some heavy calamity had befallen our Master. The Menatzchim, or Prefects, or, more familiarly speaking, the Overseers, deputed some of the most eminent of their number to wait upon King Solomon and acquaint him with the utter confusion into which the absence of Hiram Abiff, had plunged them, and to express their apprehension that to some fatal catastrophe must be attributed his sudden and mysterious disappearance.
The King’s fears being awakened for the safety of his chief artist, he ordered a general muster of the workmen throughout the various departments, when three of the Overseers were not to be found. On the same day the twelve who had originally joined in the conspiracy came before the King and made a voluntary confession of all they knew down to the time of having withdrawn themselves from the number of the conspirators. This naturally increased the King’s fears; he therefore selected fifteen trusty F.Cs. and ordered them to make a diligent search for the person of our Master, to ascertain if he were yet alive, or if he had suffered death in any attempt to extort from him the secrets of his exalted Degree.
Accordingly, a stated day having been appointed for their return to Jerusalem, they formed themselves into three F.C. Lodges and departed from the three entrances of the Temple. Many days were spent in fruitless search; indeed, one class returned to Jerusalem without having made any discovery of importance. A second, however, was more fortunate, for, on the evening of a certain day, having suffered many privations and much personal fatigue, one of the Brethren, who had rested himself in a reclining posture, to assist his rising, caught hold of a shrub, which, to his surprise, came easily out of the ground. On a closer examination he found that the earth had been recently disturbed; he therefore hailed his companions and, with their assistance, opened the ground and there found the body of our Master, very indecently interred. They covered it again with all respect and reverence and, to distinguish the spot, stuck a sprig of acacia at the head of the grave.
They then hastened to Jerusalem to impart the afflicting intelligence to King Solomon who, when the first emotions of his grief had subsided, ordered them to return and raise the body of our Master to such a sepulture as became his exalted rank and superior talents, at the same time informing them that, by his untimely death, the genuine secrets of a M.M. were lost. He therefore charged them to be particularly careful in observing any casual Sign, Token, or Word, that might occur while paying this last sad tribute of respect to departed merit. They performed their task with the utmost fidelity, for, on re-opening the ground, one of the Brethren looking round W.M. rises observed some of his companions in this position W.M. gives Sn. of H., struck with horror at the dreadful and afflicting sight, while others, viewing the ghastly wound still visible on his forehead, smiting their own in sympathy with his sufferings W.M.. gives Sn. of S. and sits. Two of the Brethren then descended the grave, one of whom endeavoured to raise the body of our Master by the E.A.’s Grip which proved a slip; the other tried that of a F.C. which proved a slip likewise; both having failed in their endeavours, a more zealous and expert Brother then descended, and taking a firm grip of the sinews of our Master’s right hand, with their assistance, raised him on the Five Points of Fellowship, while others, more animated, exclaimed Machaben or Machbinna, both Words having a similar import, one signifying the death of the Builder and the other, the Builder is slain. King Solomon ordered that those casual Signs, Token, and Words, should henceforth designate all M.Ms. throughout the universe until time or circumstances should restore the genuine ones.
It remains only to account for the third class, who, having pursued their researches in the direction of Joppa, were meditating their return to Jerusalem, when, accidentally passing the mouth of a cavern, they heard sounds of deep lamentation and regret; on entering to ascertain the cause, they found three men answering the description of those missing, who, on being charged with the murder and finding all chance to escape cut off, made a full confession of their guilt. They were then bound and led to Jerusalem where King Solomon sentenced them to that death which the heinousness of their crime so justly merited.
The King ordered that the body of our Master be re-interred as near the Sanctum Sanctorum as Israelitish law would permit, in a grave, from the centre three feet E, three feet W, three feet between N and S, and five feet or more perpendicular. He was not buried in the Sanctum Sanctorum because nothing common or unclean was allowed to enter there, except the High Priest, and he but once a year, and not even then until after many washings and purifications against the great Day of Atonement for sins, for, by Israelitish law, all flesh is deemed unclean. The same fifteen trusty F.Cs. were ordered to attend the funeral, clothed in white aprons and gloves as emblems of innocence.
S.D. and Cand. move forward to W.M.’s pedestal. D.C. holds the Third Tracing Board, usually a miniature, in a suitable position at left of W.M. I.P.M. hands p. to W.M.
 
 
Explanation of the Third Tracing Board
 
W.M., rises: The working tools with which our Master was slain were the Plumb Rule, the Level and the heavy Maul. W.M. indicates them on T.B. The ornaments of a M.M.’s Lodge are the Porch, the Dormer, and the Squared Pavement W.M. indicates them. The Porch was the entrance to the Sanctum Sanctorum, the Dormer the window that gave light to the same, and the Squared Pavement for the High Priest to walk on. The High Priest’s office was to burn incense to the honour and glory of The Most High and to pray fervently that the Almighty, of His unbounded wisdom and goodness, would be pleased to bestow peace and prosperity on the Israelitish nation throughout the ensuing year. The three fives W.M. indicates them allude to the Five Points of Fellowship, likewise to the fifteen trusty F.Cs.
The Coffin., Skull and Crossing-bones W.M. indicates them, being emblems of mortality, allude to the untimely death of our Master, Hiram Abiff, which occurred three thousand years W.M. indicates the date after the creation of the world. The sprig of acacia W.M. indicates was placed at the head of the grave W.M. returns p. To I.P.M. and sits, D.C. removes Tracing Board and returns to his seat.
S.D. and Cand. move backwards to their previous position in the centre of the Lodge and both stand facing W.M.
W.M.: You have already been informed of the Signs in this Degree; there are five in all corresponding in number with the Five Points of Fellowship
They are the Sign of Horror, the Sign of Sympathy, the Penal Sign, the Sign of Grief and Distress, and the Sign of Joy and Exaltation, likewise called the Grand or Reverential Sign. For your instruction I will go through them W.M. rises.
Please copy me. This is the Sign of Horror W.M. gives and drops Sn. of H.; S.D. and Cand. copy him; this the Sign of Sympathy. W.M. gives and drops Sn. of S.; S.D. and Cand. copy him; this the Penal Sign W.M. gives and drops P.Sn.; S.D. and Cand. copy him). The Sign of Grief and Distress is given by placing the back of the right hand, thumb extended to form a Square, over the right temple, palm inward slowly across the face and dropping it to the side. W.M. gives Sn. of G. and D.; S.D. and Cand. copy him; this took its rise at the time our Master staggered faint and bleeding from the N to the E entrance of the Temple when his agony was so great that the perspiration stood in large drops on his forehead and he made use of this Sign W.M. again gives Sn. of G. and D.; S.D. and Cand. copy him as a temporary relief from his sufferings. This is the Sign of Joy and Exaltation. W.M. arches his hands above his head, fingertips touching, and drops his hands to his sides; S.D. and Cand. copy him; it took its rise at the completion of the Temple when King Solomon with the Princes of his household went to view it; they were so struck with its magnificence and splendour that with one simultaneous motion they exclaimed W.M. again gives Sn. of J. and E. "O wonderful Masons". S.D. and Cand. copy the Sn and repeat the words. On the Continent of Europe the Sign of Grief and Distress is given in a different manner; it is given by interlacing the fingers W.M. demonstrates, S.D. and Cand. copy him, placing the back of the hands to the forehead W.M. demonstrates; SD. and Cand copy him, drawing them slowly apart, exclaiming "O come to my aid you son of the widow." W.M. demonstrates and d his hs. to his s., S.D. and Cand. copy him and repeat the words, on the supposition that all M.Ms. are brothers to Hiram Abiff, who was a widow’s son. In Scotland, Ireland and some parts of America it is given in a still different manner; it is given by raising the hands, palms extended towards the Heavens W.M. demonstrates; S.D and Cand. copy him, and dropping them, with three distinct movements, exclaiming "O Lord my God. W.M. demonstrates, S.D. and Cand. copy him and repeat the words, "O Lord my God" W.M. demonstrates again, S.D. and Cand. copy him and repeat the words, "O Lord my God, is there no help for the widow’s son?" W.M. d. His hs. To his s.; S.D. and Cand. copy him and repeat the words.
W.M. to Can.: Please step this way..
S.D. and Cand. again move forward to W.M.’s pedestal.
W.M.: I now present to your notice the working tools of a M.M. They are the Skirret, the Pencil and the Compass. I.P.M. hands the appropriate working tools to W.M. who shows each one in turn to Cand. and places it on top of pedestal. The Skirret W.M. picks it up is an implement which acts on a centre pin whence a line is drawn W.M. demonstrates to mark out the ground for the foundation of the intended structure W.M. rewinds the line, replaces it on pedestal and picks up Pl.; with the Pencil, the skilful artist delineates the building in a draft or plan, for the guidance and instruction of the workmen W.M. replaces it on pedestal and picking up Cs., opens them; while the Compasses. enable him with accuracy and precision, to ascertain and determine the limits and proportions of its several parts W.M. closes Cs. And replaces them on pedestal.
However, as we are not operative, but free and accepted, or speculative Masons, we apply these tools to morals.
In this sense, the Skirret W.M. displays it points out that straight undeviating line of conduct laid down for our pursuit in the Volume of the Sacred Law replaces it on pedestal; the Pencil. W.M. displays it teaches us that our words and actions are observed and recorded by the Almighty Architect, to whom we must give an account of our conduct through life replaces it on pedestal;
while the Compasses W.M. displays them remind us of His unerring and impartial justice and that He, having defined for our instruction the limits of good and evil, will reward or punish, as we have obeyed or disregarded His Divine commands replaces them on pedestal. Thus the working tools of a M.M. W.M. puts them singly into his right hand teach us to bear in mind and act in accordance with the laws of our Divine Creator, so that when we shall be summoned from this sublunary abode, we may ascend W.M. raises right hand, still holding working tools, towards Heaven to the Grand Lodge above, where the world’s Great Architect lives and reigns for ever. W.M. returns working tools to I.P.M.
W.M.: You are now entitled to take your seat in a M.M.’s Lodge and Bro. … surname only, I congratulate you on your progress in the Craft so far.
W.M. sits, S.D. squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. To a seat and returns to his own seat, except that when the charge after Raising is to be given, S.D. and Cand., before returning to their seats, first move backwards to the centre of the Lodge and stand facing W.M. while the charge is delivered.
 
 
Charge after raising
 
W.M.: Bro. surname only, your zeal for the Institution of Freemasonry, the progress you have made in the Art, and your conformity to the general regulations, have pointed you out as a proper object of our favour and esteem. In the character of a M.M., you are henceforth authorised to correct the errors and irregularities of Brethren and Fellows and guard them against a breach of fidelity. To improve the morals and correct the manners of men in society, must be your constant care. With this in view, therefore, you are always to recommend to inferiors, obedience and submission; to equals, courtesy and affability; and to superiors, kindness and condescension. You are to inculcate universal benevolence and, by the regularity of your own behaviour, afford the best example for the conduct of others. The Ancient landmarks of the Order, which are entrusted to your care, you are to preserve sacred and inviolable and never suffer an infringement of our rites or a deviation from established usage and custom. Duty, honour and gratitude now bind you to be faithful to every trust, to support with becoming dignity your new character and to enforce by example and precept, the tenets of the system. Therefore, let no motive cause you to swerve from your duty, violate your vows or betray yourtrust; but be true and faithful and imitate the example of that celebrated artist whom you have just represented. By this exemplary conduct you will convince the world that me rit has been your title to our privileges and that on you our favours have not been undeservedly bestowed.
 
 
Closing
 
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, assist in closing the Lodge in the Third Degree. All rise.
W.M..: Bro. J.W. who gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, what is the constant care of every M.M.?
J.W.: To prove the Lodge close Tyled.
W.M.: Direct that duty to bedone. J.W. drops P.Sn.
J.W.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, prove the Lodge close Tyled. I.G. drops P.Sn. goes to the door and gives ks. of Third Degree. T. answers with similar ks. I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree.
I.G.: Bro. J.W., the Lodge is close Tyled. Drops P.Sn.
J.W. gives ks., Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree: W.M., the Lodge is close Tyled. Drops P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. S.W. who gives Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree, the next care?
S.W.: To see that the Brethren appear to order as M.Ms. Drops P.Sn.
W.M.: To order, Brethren, as Freemasons in the Third Degree. All come to order with Sp and P.Sn. of Third Degree.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., as a M.M. whence come you?
J.W: From the W W.M., whither we have been in search of the genuine secrets of a M.M.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., have you found them?
S.W.: We have not, W.M., but we bring with us certain substituted secrets which we are anxious to import for your approbation.
W.M.: Bro. Wardens, let those substituted secrets be regularly communicated to me.
S.W. and J. W., each continuing to hold P.Sn., leave their respective pedestals by left side and move to centre of Lodge, without squaring, where they face each other, about a yard apart, S.W. facing S. and J.W. facing N . The substituted secrets are communicated to the S.W. by the J.W. who, after dropping the P.Sn., gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, cuts it and offers his right hand to S.W.; S.W. drops P.Sn. and with his right hand clasps that of J.W., who gives G. of Second Degree, raises the clasped hands to head level, gives P.G. leading from Second to Third Degree and bending slightly forward, whispers P.W. to S.W. The Wardens lower and free their hands and S.W. resumes P.Sn. of Third Degree. J.W. gives Sp, Sn. of H., Sn. of S., and P.Sn. of Third Degree, and communicates the F.P. of F. to S.W. to whom, on the fifth P., he whispers the Wds. of a M.M. Both Wardens resume and continue to hold P.Sn. J.W. turns about and regains his pedestal direct by its right side. S.W. turns left and faces W.M.
S.W.: W.M., condescend to receive from me the substituted secrets of a M.M.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., I will receive them with pleasure and for the Information of the Brethren, you will speak the Words aloud.
W.M., holding P.Sn., leaves his pedestal by left side and moves, without squaring, to face S.W., about a yard from him. The substituted secrets are then communicated by S.W. in the same manner as he received them, except that the Wds. are spoken aloud. W.M. and S.W. resume P.Sn. and, continuing to hold it, turn about and regain their respective pedestals by the right side.
W.M.: Brethren, the substituted secrets of a M.M. having been thus regularly communicated to me, I, as Master of this Lodge and thereby the humble representative of King Solomon, do sanction, confirm, and declare that they shall henceforth designate you and all M.Ms. throughout the Universe, until time or circumstances shall restore the genuine ones.
BRETHREN, bending their heads slightly forward: With gratitude to our Master, we bend.
ALL turn towards W.M. and all give G. or R.Sn.: All glory to The Most High. All resume P.Sn.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., the labours of this Degree being ended, you have my command to close the Lodge. Holds P.Sn. and with left hand gives ks. of Third Degree.
S.W.: Brethren in the name of The Most High, and by command of the W.M., I close all cut P.Sn. and recover this M.M.'s Lodge all drop P.Sn. and S.W. gives ks. of Third Degree.
J.W.: And it is closed accordingly. Gives ks. of Third Degree. I.G. goes to the door, gives ks. of Third Degree and being answered similarly by T., returns to his place. During which time the S.D., assisted by the J.D. attends to the T.B. and both return to their places. I.P.M. adjusts S. and Cs., replaces the Working Tools and returns to his place. W.M. then sits, after which the Brethren resume their seats.
W.M.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S. P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, admit all F.Cs. I.G. cuts Sn. goes to the door, opens it, and calls for F.Cs., who enter the Lodge and, without giving Sp or Sn, return to their seats. I.G. locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
I.G.: W.M., all F.Cs. are admitted. Cuts Sn. and returns to his seat.

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