Free Masonry - The Masonic Trowel

FREE MASONRY A SCIENCE. 71
ties, and from a superficies to a solid. 11 This is followed by
a mathematical definition of a point, a line, a superficies,
and a solid; and by remarks, first, on the advantages of
geometry, and, again, on the moral advantages of geometry.
I shall conclude this notice of the Chart on the fellow
craft's degree, by an extract from the charge. " The study
of the liberal arts, that valuable branch of education which
tends so effectually to polish and adorn the mind, is ear*
nestly recommended to your consideration; especially the
science of geometry, which is established as the basis of
our art. Geometry or Masonry, originally synonymous
terms, being of a divine and moral nature, is enriched with
the most useful knowledge ,• while it proves the wonderful
properties of nature, it demonstrates the more important
truths of morality."*
Our professors of mathematics, and of moral philosophy,
would seem to be equally interested to know " the divine
and moral nature of geometry," which, while it proves the
wonderful properties of nature, demonstrates the more important
truths of morality !
1^ This must be one of the mysteries of " the art of finding
out new arts;" one of the secrets of intrinsic value belonging
to " the art of wunderwurking, the wey of winning
the facultie of Abrac'l To demonstrate moral truth by
geometrical problems—O, most wonderful science! This
inspired the poet when he sung:
" Hail, mysterious, glorious science!
" Which to discord bids defiance!
tt Harmony alone reigns here."
* F. M. M. p. 22. Haxdie's Mon. p. 89. TannehilPs Mon. p. 189.
Preston, p. 61. F. M. L. p. 179.
t Book of Const, of Mass. p. 19. Preston, b. 3. sec. 1.