THE ARCANE SCHOOLS - Fort Myers Beach Masonic Lodge No. 362

the removal of the lodge was only a matter of convenience to the
members,
the Grand Lodge would hardly interfere, but leave the whole subject to
their discretion; but, where the removal would be calculated to affect
the
interests of the lodge, or of the fraternity--as in the case of a
removal
to a house of bad reputation, or to a place of evident insecurity--I
have
no doubt that the Grand Lodge, as the conservator of the character and
safety of the institution, would have a right to interpose its
authority,
and prevent the improper removal.
I have thus treated, as concisely as the important nature of the
subjects
would permit, of the powers, privileges, duties, and obligations of
lodges, and have endeavored to embrace, within the limits of the
discussion, all those prominent principles of the Order, which, as they
affect the character and operations of the craft in their primary
assemblies, may properly be referred to the Law of Subordinate Lodges.
Chapter IV.
Of the Officers of a Subordinate Lodge.
Section I.
_Of the Officers in General._
Four officers, at least, the ancient customs of the craft require in
every
lodge; and they are consequently found throughout the globe. These are
the
Master, the two Wardens, and the Tiler. Almost equally universal are
the
offices of Treasurer, Secretary, and two Deacons. But, besides these,
there may be additional officers appointed by different Grand Lodges.
The
Grand Lodge of England, for instance, requires the appointment of an
officer, called the "Inner Guard." The Grand Orient of France has
prescribed a variety of officers, which are unknown to English and
American Masonry. The Grand Lodges of England and South Carolina direct
that two Stewards shall be appointed, while some other Grand Lodges
make
no such requisition. Ancient usage seems to have recognized the
following
officers of a subordinate lodge: the Master, two Wardens, Treasurer,
Secretary, two Deacons, two Stewards, and Tiler; and I shall therefore
treat of the duties and powers of these officers only, in the course of
the present chapter.