Page:Manual of the Lodge.pdf/193

148 The new Master then faces the East, and the presiding officer addresses to him the following charge:

Brother, previous to your investiture, it is necessary that you should signify your assent to those ancient charges and regulations which point out the duty of the Master of a Lodge.

I. Do you promise to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the moral law?

Ans. I do.

II. Do you promise to be a peaceable citizen, and cheerfully to conform to the laws of the country in which you reside?

Ans. I do.

III. Do you promise not to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against the government of the country in which you live; but patiently to submit to the decision of the law and the constituted authorities?

Ans. I do.

IV. Do you promise to pay a proper respect to the civil magistrates, to work diligently, live creditably, and act honorably by all men?

Ans. I do.

V. Do you promise to hold in veneration the original rulers and patrons of the Order of Freemasonry, and their regular successors, supreme and subordinate, according to their stations; and to submit to the awards and resolutions of your brethren in Lodge convened, in every case consistent with the constitutions of the Order?

Ans. I do.