You are now introduced into the first principles of Freemasonry. I congratulate you on being accepted into this ancient and honorable Order; ancient, as having existed from time immemorial, and honorable, as tending in every particular so to render all men, who will conform to its precepts.

    No institution was ever raised on better principles, or more solid foundation; nor were ever more excellent rules and useful maxims laid down than are inculcated in the several Masonic lectures.

    There are three great duties, which you assume at your entrance into this Order, and which in your life as a Mason, both by precept and example, you are charged to inculcate, ... to God, . . . your neighbor . . . and yourself: ... To God, in never mentioning His name but with that reverence which is due from the creature to his Creator, to implore His aid in all your undertakings and to esteem Him the source of all good: ... to your neighbor, in acting upon the square and doing unto him as you would have him do unto you; . . . and to yourself, in avoiding every irregularity and intemperance which may impair your faculties or debase the dignity of your profession. A zealous adherence to these duties will insure you both public and private esteem.

    In the State you are to be a quiet and peaceful citizen, true to your government and just to your country. You are not to countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but patiently submit to legal authority, and conform with cheerfulness to the government of the country in which you live.

    Although your frequent attendance at our meetings is earnestly solicited, yet it is not intended that Masonry should interfere with your necessary vocations, as these are on no account to be neglected.

    You are not to suffer your zeal for the institution to lead you into argument with those who through ignorance may ridicule it. At your leisure hours, that you may improve in Masonic knowledge, you are to converse with well-informed Brethren, who will always be as ready to give as you will be to receive instruction. Finally, keep sacred and inviolate the mysteries of the Order, as these are to distinguish you from the rest of the community and mark your consequence among Masons. If in the circle of your acquaintance you find a person desirous of being initiated into Masonry, be particularly careful not to recommend him unless you are satisfied that he will conform to our rules; to the end that the reputation, honor, and welfare of the institution may be firmly established and the world at large convinced of its good effects.