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562 BOOK OF THE A. AND A. RITE.
sires her children to he? And do you accept us individually,
and this Lodge, as your secouds and assistants in this holy work ?
One of the fathers, answering for all, makes such response as he
deems appropriate ; or he may use the following at his option
Father. "Worshipful Master, the fathers and mothers of these
children ask me to say, in their names, that it is because they so
profoundly feel the immense responsibility which God has im-
posed upon them in intrusting to them the education of these
yoimg immortals, and because of their intense desire well and
faithfully to perform that duty, that they have been willing to
place them under the protection of this Lodge, in the hope of
insuring to them that purity of heart, and statelessness of soul,
which are symbolized by Masonic Baptism. Well, indeed, do
these trembling, agitated mothers, and these anxious fathers, know
how numerous and how dangerous are the snares and pitfalls
which youth must encounter in the intricate paths of life.
They know that very shortly some of these little ones may be
left fatherless and motherless, helpless as young birds with bro-
ken wings that trail upon the earth ; and they feel that they can
pass away more contentedly if they know that over their orphans
will be extended the care and affection of this Lodge, to ward off
destitution and the enemies that will be eager to assail their inno-
cence and virtue.
These fathers are prepared gladly to renew their obligations.
What occasion more appropriate than this, upon which you are
faithfully fulfilling yours?
These mothers gladly, most gladly, and gratefully accept for
their children your proffered protection, and pray you to appre-
ciate a thankfulness in them for which words have no adequate
expression.
When the father concludes, the Master says
W. M. Brother Master of Ceremonies, conduct these children
and their parents to the places provided for them.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the procession to the platform
in the rear of the altar. The other children are seated in front, the
fathers and mothers in the rear, and the brethren who bear the infant*
hand them to their mothers, who place them, still upon the en sh ions,
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