Masonry comprehends within its circle every branch of useful knowledge and
learning, and stamps an indelible mark of preeminence on its genuine
professors, which neither chance, power, nor fortune can bestow. When its
rules are strictly observed, it is a sure foundation of tranquility amidst
the various disappointments of life; a friend that will not deceive, but
will comfort and assist, in prosperity and adversity; a blessing that will
remain with all times. Circumstances, and places, and to which recourse may
be had, when earthly comforts sink into disregard.
Masonry give real and intrinsic excellency to man, and renders him fit for
the duties of society. It strengthens the mind against the storms of life,
paves the way to peace, and promotes domestic happiness. It meliorates the
temper, and improves the understanding; it is company in fortitude, and gives
vivacity, variety, and energy to social conversation. In youth, it governs
the passions, and employs usefully our most active faculties; and in age,
when sickness, imbecility, and disease have benumbed the corporal frame,
and rendered the union of soul and body almost intolerable, it yields a fund
of comfort and satisfaction.
These are its general advantages; to enumerate them separately, would be
an endless labour: it may be sufficient to observe, that he who cultivates
this science, and acts agreeably to the character of a Mason, has within
himself the spring and support of every social virtue; a subject of
contemplation, that enlarges the mind, and expands all its powers; a theme
that is inexhaustible, ever new, and always interesting.