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preface
CHAPTER I
the masonic manual
robert macoy
In presenting to the Fraternity another edition of the "MASONIC
MANUAL," in an enlarged and more comprehliensive character, the compiler
cannot forego the opportunity of acknowledging his obligations to the
Brotherhood for the very liberal and flattering testimonials of their
approbation extended to him, as well as to those who have taken so warm an
interest in the appearance of the present edition.
The great aim of the present issue is intended to fill a VACUUM long
existing in the Order - that of rendering, in a practical sense, the best
method of assisting the learner in acquiring a knowledge of the rites and
ceremonies of the various branches of the Order, principally through the
aid of well-arranged emblems, illustrating the symbols of the Craft.
The compiler, desirous of aiding the studious novitiate in his laudable
ambition to climb the ladder of Masonic Preferment, has copiously
embellished the capitular degrees with many entirely new and appropriate
emblems, illustrating the lectures therein, and with such perspicuity as
to render a thorough understanding of them easy of attainment.
The degrees of Knighthood have also been favored with a variety of
plain and intelligible designs, emblematical ef those beautiful subsidiary
appendages to Freemasonry, and so far rendered applicable to the work as
to require but little further elucidation to familiarize the Sir Knight
with the minutiae of the chivalric branch of the institution.
The numerous representations of JEWELS, for Grand and Subordinate
Lodges, Chapters, and Encampments, selected from every accessible
authentic source, will, no
doubt, be practicably beneficial to the members of the fraternity.
The Charges, Ceremonies of Consecration. Dedication, and Installation
are selected from the works of the oldest standard Masonic writers, with
such corrections only as are deemed essential to avoid prolixity of
verbiage.
The subjoined forms of Masonic Documents are highly esteemed for their
utility and correctness, and are estimated as articles of great value to
the Craft generally.
The entire work has been prepared with the utmost attention to
accuracy, and a due regard to the solemn injunction - "to preserve the
ancient landmarks of the Order." The compiler asks but an examination of
its internal arrangements to convince the reader that no expense has been
spared in furnishing a very extensive "MASONIC POCKET COMPANION," and, in
presenting it to the Brotherhood, he desires that it shall stand entirely
upon its merits for their approbation.
THE COMPILER
PUBLISHERS' NOTICE
The Masonic public are herewith presented with a revised edition of
"MACOY's MASONIC MANUAL."
Although this work has had for the last fifteen years a sale far
surpassing that of any other of the kind, it was found that to meet the
wants of the ORDER at the present time it needed revision.
This labor was committed to the hands of Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham, who is
well known to the CRAFT, and whose name will be a sufficient guarantee
that the work in its present form is complete and correct.
As such the publishers commend it to the confidence and favor of the
MASONIC FRATERNITY.
June,
1867.
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