Mackey – Encyclopedia Of Freemasonry Vol. 1

164 SECRET SOCIETIESThere was something theatrical in all this ; but the organisersno doubt looked to the effect it had on the minds of theinitiated . If on this ground it could not be defended, thenthere is little excuse for judicial wigs and clerical gowns,episcopal gaiters, aprons, and shovel-hats, lord mayors' shows,parliamentary procedure, and royal pageants .550 . Degree of Grand 11 Taster Grand Elect .-This, thehighest degree of Carbonarism, is only accessible to thosewho have given proofs of great intelligence and resolution .The Good Cousins being assembled in the lodge, the candidateis introduced blindfolded ; two members, representingthe two thieves, carry a cross, which is firmly planted in theground . One of the two pretended thieves is then addressedas a traitor to the cause, and condemned to die on the cross .He resigns himself to his fate, as fully deserved, and is tiedto the cross with silken cords ; and, to delude the candidate,whose eyes are still bandaged, he utters loud groans . TheGrand Master pronounces the same doom on the other robber,but he, representing the non-repentant one, exclaims : " Ishall undergo my fate, cursing you, and consoling myselfwith the thought that I shall be avenged, and that strangersshall exterminate you to the last Carbonaro. Know that Ihave pointed out your retreat to the chiefs of the hostilearmy, and that within a short time you shall fall into theirhands. Do your worst." The Grand Elect then turns tothe candidate, and, alluding to the punishment awarded to.traitors as done on the present occasion, informs him that healso must be fastened to the cross if he persists in his intentionto proceed, and there receive on his body the sacredmarks, whereby the Grand Masters Grand Elects of all thelodges are known to each other, and must also pronouncethe oath, whereupon the bandage will be removed, he will.descend from the cross, and be clothed with the insignia oft he Grand Master Grand Elect . He is then firmly tied tothe cross, and pricked three times on the right arm, seventimes on the left, and three times under the left breast .The cross being erected in the middle of the cave, thatthe members may see the marks on the body, on a given sign,the bandage being removed, the Cousins stand around thecandidate, pointing their swords and daggers at his breast,and threatening him with even a worse death should he turntraitor. They also watch his demeanour, and whether hebetrays any fear. Seven toasts in his honour are thendrunk, and the Grand Elect explains the real meaning of thesymbols, which may not be printed, but is only to be written