n, while
his tripartite classification of the 33 degrees of that rite and of the
Ancient Accepted Scotch Rite is made in an arbitrary manner to suit a
preconceived theory, and entirely effaces the importance inherent in
the first three grades, which are themselves the sum of Masonry.
Moreover, the classification in question is presented as a most secret
instruction imparted in some fastness of Masonry outside the 33 degrees,
but no authority is named.
Such being the qualifications and such the methods of the archbishop, I
do not propose to accompany him through the long course of his
interpretations, but will supply instead, for the economy of labour on
the part of those who may wish to follow in his footsteps, a skeleton
plan of procedure by which they will be able to prove learnedly anything
they please in Freemasonry.
It is well known that the Fraternity makes use of mystic numbers and
other symbols. Take, therefore, any mystic number, or combination of
numbers, as _e.g._, 3 x 3 = 9. You will probably be unacquainted with
the meaning which attaches to the figure of the product, but it will
occur to you that the 9 of spades is regarded as the disappointment in
cartomancy. Begin, therefore, by confidently expecting something bad.
Reflect upon the fact that cards have been occasionally denominated the
Devil's Books. Conclude thence that Freemasonry is the Devil's
Institution. Do not be misled by the objection that there is no
traceable connection between cards and Masonry; anticipate an occult
connection or secret _liaison_. The term last used has probably occurred
to you by the will of God; do not forget that it describes a
questionable sexual relationship. Be sure, therefore, that Freemasonry
is a veil of the worst species of moral licence. You have now reached an
important stage in the unmasking of Masonry, and you can sum it as
follows:--Freemasonry is the cultus of the Phallus. If you know anything
of ecclesiastical Latin, the words _noctium phantasmata_ may perhaps
occur to you, and the whole field of demonology in connection with the
Fraternity will open before you. But if you would confine yourself to
the region of lubricity, recollect that our first parents went naked
till the serpent tempted them, and then they wore aprons. Hence the
apron, which is a Masonic emblem, has from time immemorial been the
covering of shame. Should it occur to you--vide _Genesis_--that God made
the aprons, dismiss it as a tempta
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