The true Democrat., 1854-07-19

pate.
 In behalf of the Lodge you represent, accept gentlemen, and to yourselves, the assurance of my high opinion and of my devotedness to the welfare and prosperity of Free Masonry
 Yours fraternally,
 To JOHN G. HALLIBURTON, and others.
 AN ADDRESS,
 Delivered beytore Rockport Lodge, No. 58, ef Free
 and Accepted Maso'as, oa 24th dag of June,
 1854, by .Jno. ?. Emerson
 MY BRETHREN FRIENDS AND LADIES' 1 Through the forbearance and mercies of our Supreme Grand Master, we are brought together, to celebrate the birth day of St. J John the Baptist which is observed as festival by the fraternity in commemoration of this distin- guished parsonage. What mercy it is that we are yet alive, while so many of our venerable craft, and multitudes of our fellow men, have fallen by the ruthless hand of death, who rides the blast, horsed upon the the esightless air, has scattered his deathly darts thick around us.- Brethren and friends, let us unite our hearts in humble thanks to God, praise his name, adore his goodness, and trust his love. The keep ing of feasts in memory of distinguished per sons Is of very remote antiquity, as we'll as di- vine authority, and to these may be added that greatest feast, setting forth in so lively manner the broken body and she'd blood of the Re- deemer of man. These have many good ends, in stirring us up to watchfulness; they inform the understanding; and by bringing us together, they strengthen union and concord.
 Lodges in ancient times were dedecated to King Solomon. But since the death of St. John the Evangelist Christian Lodges are dede- cated to St. John the Baptist in connection with St. John the Evangelist-they both be- ing regarded as eminent Christian patterns of Free. Masonry. Some inquiring minds may ask how we know these Christian patterns to have been Free Masons? We answer by universal ma- sonic tradition. Some may say that tradi- tion is not safe foundation of belief, we an- swer: according to history many wise and learn ed men say that tradition in matters of fact is good and stable authority, and there is full evil dence that these divines were Masons, clearly set forth by the Gospel, to all those who have light to see it.
 Free Masonry has attained for itself the exalted rank of scientific institution; and many of the most philosophc minds of England, Germany, France and the United States, have been and still are devoted to the illustration of it's principles to the examination of its antiqui- ty, and the arrangement and study of its litera- ry system. Scholars of the most profound genius and learning have entered its portals, that they may find its hidden mysteries and its learned assistance One of the profoundest wri- ters of the present day, (the Rev. Dr. Oliver of England) has said that the scientific philosophy of Free Masonry forms rational employment of time in acquiring the wisdom and experience resulting from human knowledge. This philo- sophy has now been diligently studded by Wash ington, Franklin, Crawford, Warren, Jackson, Polk, Clay, Cass, and various others; who have formed the brightest galaxy genius in this great republic, and given to the science and study of Free Masonry so elevated a position, that it is no longer possible for any candid thinking mind to doubt for moment, the benevolent, moral, and salutary influence it has over the mind of mankind, when its true principles are correctly taught and properly regarded. Itis awell known fact that our order is principally composed of scientific and ingenius men, who assemble to improve and cultivate pure and sublime sys- tenn of morality; and Masonry may now be defined as moral institution, intended to pro- mote individual and social happiness. Our in- stitution asserts in language not to be misunder- stood the natural equality of mankind. It de- clares that all worthy brethren are upon level and admits of no rank except the priority of merit and the only aristocracy is the nobility of virtue; it throws open its doors to all worthy men of all nations.
 How often has it showered down its golden gifts into the dungeon of misery, which appear ed inaccessible! How often has it dispersed the rays of gloom and aff1iction, and converted their horrors of despair into the meridian splendor of unexpected joy! How often has it with its kind and gentle voice recalled the unhappy wanderer back to the path of rectitude, and with its powerful arm protected the oppressed and un- protected. Let the widow, the orphan, and the unfortunate who have been witnesses of it's many benevolent deeds and gratitude declare its charity and virtues. We as Masons are bound to reasonably promote the interest of each other, to avoid every thing offensive, to abstain from reproach; to mildly advise each other of our errors, to advance the welfare and reputition of our families and protect them against unjust attacks; such are the obligations that we owe to each other as brothers. Ma sorry espouses the cause of universal benevo- fence and virture, and although there are some vicious men in the fraternity, yet they are better men than if they were not Masons; as Chris tian Masons acknowledge the divinity of God A Mason is always peaceable subject to the civil powers wherever he resides, and is never concerned in plots and conspiracies against the peace and welfare of the nation. So ancient kings and princes have been encourages of the craft because of their peaceableness and loyalty and if brother is a rebel against government he is not countenanced by the brotherhood.- Masonry is an important institution, it's temper ance is high as the Sons of Temperance, its re- verence to Deity elevates it to religious insti- tuition, its antiquity and universality make it a subject for the historian, whilein its prominent