Mystic masonry, or, The symbols of freemasonry and the greater ...

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Introduction.
such treasures revealed at every step, that he desires
to share these precious jewels with his fellow craftsmen,
that they may also go further, and from the
secret vaults bring forth for inspection other and
greater discoveries. These jewels have not been
concealed by accident, but by design, in order that
they might, in some future age, be restored. Even
the stone that was rejected, and became lost in the
rubbish, not only bears an emblem, and contains a
mark, but is itself, from first to last, with its surroundings,
method of restoration, and final use, a
symbol. It is the center of a five-pointed star,
which is the kabalistic sign of man. In one direction,
it symbolizes the five senses, lost in the rubbish
of passion and selfish gratification. When this rejected
or lost stone is recovered, and sent to the
King of the temple (man's Higher-Self), and is
recognized and restored, the arch is complete, and
the gateway of the senses gives entrance to the
"Palace of the King." The result is light or illumination.
Such are the Illuminati.
The writing of this book has been altogether a labor
of love. It is designed to be no less a tribute
to the Heroes and Martyrs of Masonry in the Past,
than an humble offering to the Fraternity of the
Present. J. D. B.
Cincinnati, November 9, 1896.