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EULOGIUM
SECTION xI
BOOK I - The Excellency of Masonry Displayed
illustrations of masonry
william preston
Masonry comprehends within its circle every branch of useful
knowledge and learning, and stamps an indelible mark of preeminence on its
genuine professors, which neither chance, power, nor fortune can bestow.
When its rules are strictly observed, it is a sure foundation of tranquility
amidst the various disappointments of life; a friend that will not deceive, but
will comfort and assist, in prosperity and adversity; a blessing that will
remain with all times. Circumstances, and places, and to which recourse may be
had, when earthly comforts sink into disregard.
Masonry give real and intrinsic excellency to man, and renders
him fit for the duties of society. It strengthens the mind against the storms of
life, paves the way to peace, and promotes domestic happiness. It meliorates the
temper, and improves the understanding; it is company in fortitude, and gives
vivacity, variety, and energy to social conversation. In youth, it governs the
passions, and employs usefully our most active faculties; and in age, when
sickness, imbecility, and disease have benumbed the corporal frame, and rendered
the union of soul and body almost intolerable, it yields a fund of comfort and
satisfaction.
These are its general advantages; to enumerate them separately,
would be an endless labour: it may be sufficient to observe, that he who
cultivates this science, and acts agreeably to the character of a Mason, has
within himself the spring and support of every social virtue; a subject of
contemplation, that enlarges the mind, and expands all its powers; a theme that
is inexhaustible, ever new, and always interesting.
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