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PRELIMINARIES.

THE great field of Masonic research has, for many centuries, been explored by the most able, ingenious and fruitful imaginations. The origin of the Institution, its principles and design have employed many pens, in every age. But, notwithstanding those numerous, as well as great exertions, so often and so ably repeated, much still remains. The subject is not, neither can it be exhausted. The great and paramount point has never been clearly and fully presented to the world.

That point is, that the principles of Speculative Free- Masonry have the same coeternal and unshaken foundation, contain and inculcate, in substance, the same truths, and propose the same ultimate end, as the doctrines of Christianity taught by Divine Revelation.

This is a position of very high import, and great extent; yet the truth of it is not doubted by those who are thoroughly versed in Masonic knowledge. To explain fundamental principles, and establish the

Institution, to the satisfaction of every person, on a tried foundation, becomes a matter of primary importance. It is, however, thought plain and conclusive evidence can be adduced, sufficient to satisfy every candid mind. If, therefore, the above position can be fairly established, Masonry will be hailed by all Christian nations as a precious repository of truth, sacred in their eyes, and hallowed in their esteem. Those nations whose characteristic is Christian, are usually sanguine in their devotions to such establishments as they have reason to believe are founded on Divine revelation.Taught, from their youth, that hence are derived those principles which emanate from the very throne of God, their veneration increases with their years, and excites in the mind admiring views of truth- and sanctity.

Such is the infallible result of a sound faith in revelation. It is evident, if we would give universal celebrity to our Institution, the world must be convinced that the foundation is laid in evangelical truth. When evidence shall be exhibited to this effect, the great point is fully accomplished. The ignorant and superstitious will be constrained to behold the LIGHT. The sober and discreet will rejoice in Masonry as a compendious system of

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