and I can assure him
and you of my desire to follow the footsteps of my grand
uncles, who were so long connected with the craft. Brethren,
much has been said against Freemasonry by those who do not know
what it is. People naturally say they do not approve secret
societies; but I maintain that the craft is free from the
reproach of being either disloyal or irreligious; and I am sure
you will all support me in that assertion, for I am convinced
that Her Majesty has no more loyal subjects than are the
Freemasons of England. Brethren, I desire to remind you that
when, about 70 years ago, it became necessary for the Government
of that day to put down secret societies, my relative the late
Duke of Sussex urged in his place in Parliament that Freemasons'
lodges ought to be exempt from such a law, and the force of his
appeal was acknowledged. From that time Freemasonry has been
devoid of politics, its only object being the pure and Christian
one of charity. Brethren, I once more thank you heartily for the
welcome you have given me this evening, and let me assure you
that the interests of Freemasonry shall be always upheld and
respected by me."

Other toasts, usual at Masonic festivals, having been given, the Prince
of Wales proposed success to the institution, and made a statement
respecting its position and progress:--

"Freemasons had fully recognized the importance of education--a
subject which had of late so much occupied the public mind--and
had founded many schools. The Royal Masonic Institution for Boys
was founded in 1798, when six boys were admitted. In 1810, when
the jubilee of the reign of George III. was celebrated, the
number was increased to 50, and now there were 110 in the
school. The total cost of the new building had been L47,000 of
which L5000 was still owing, while there were other matters
which raised the total liability to L10,200. There were now 155
candidates for admission, but there were only nine vacancies,
although 20 more boys could be admitted if the institution was
free from debt. He was sure he had only to mention these facts
to so distinguished an assemblage of Masons to insure a response
which would greatly forward the prosperity of the institution."

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITION.

_April 4th, 1870._

In everything pertaining to Exhibitions,