Page 22 - Centennial Sketch of the History of the Lodge of Nine Muses No. 235. 1777 to 1877 UGLE

22 Lodge of the Nine Muses 1777-1877

Appendix V.), I think it right to call special attention to four Brethren, who during
25
the latter half of the century have rendered signal service to the Lodge, and, by
their able and devoted attention to its interests, have especially contributed to the
maintenance of its efficiency and prestige. They are Bro. John Propert, who filled
the chair no less that four years in 1822, 1823, 1836, and 1846, and who was for a
considerable time Treasurer; Bro. Francis Kearsey, who was W.M. in 1847 and 1850;
Bro. C.B. Claydon, W.M. in 1842 and 1849; and Bro. J.M. Clabon, W.M. in 1863 and
1869, and who most efficiently discharged the duties of secretary for several years.
In bringing this slight outline of our history to a close, it may perhaps not be out
of place that I should refer for a single moment to the great progress which has been
made in the spread of the arts and mysteries of the Masonic Craft since our Lodge
26
was founded. During the past century Masonry in England has unquestionably
made great advances. Probably it never numbered so many illustrious and worthy
adherents in England as at this day. It is no longer regarded, as in former times,
as a dangerous secret society, subversive of the interests of order and social well-
being. Masonry, it is true, is based upon principles which have an intrinsic nobility
~ the nobility of truth ~ and does not derive its true power and value from its
association with great names. Nevertheless, we rejoice in the acknowledgment of
the significance and importance attaching to our Order by eminent personages, to
whom all look up with sincere respect, and whose circumstances and natural gifts
cause them to be recognised as among the leaders of the first society in the world.
Our present M.W.G.M., His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, in occupying
the proud position in Masonry to which he has been called, worthily follows the
traditions of his House; and we rejoice to observe and to recognise the same spirit
in our senior G.W., the Duke of Connaught, and in our J.G.W., Prince Leopold.
And we cannot but regard with profound satisfaction the fact that the position
of Pro G.M. is filled by so eminent and enlightened a statesman as the Earl of
Carnarvon. It is well to remember, however, that Masonry depends for its real
influence over our personal and social life upon its inherent merits, its sublime
principles, its changeless and undying truths; and it may be permitted me, in a last
word, to remind the Brethren how much the spirit and conduct of each individual
member. It is incumbent upon each of us to uphold our discipline, to maintain the

25 Eminent Members of the Lodge.
26 The Progress of Masonry.