Page 169 - Cornelius Hedges Story

For This And Succeeding Generations Gardiner 156

In 1882, while contemplating the improvements which would be
taking place when the railroads entered Montana Territory, he wrote
the following timely essay, which still has abundant meaning for us
today:

“Masonry will change, too, in some things. It will grow
in numbers, in wealth; we shall have a more complete and
methodical organization, perhaps finer halls and some
systematic provision for relief, but will the genuine spirit
of Masonry be stronger, purer, brighter than it has been in
the rough trying days through which Montana Masonry has
passed? We have our serious doubts. Peril, hardship, lone­
liness, developed a cast of brotherhood that nothing else
could. Already other organizations are coming in to steal away
attention and allegiance that once were given undivided to
Masonry. We must put our house in order.”524
In correspondence to the Grand Lodge of Connecticut in 1871,
Cornelius Hedges closed with:
“From the watch tower whence our view could sweep
the whole horizon we will say to the brethren of our own
jurisdiction now stationed as a skirmish line along the crest of
the Rocky Mountains Stand firm the mighty Masonic hosts are
coming From East South West the line advances The builders
of free states are coming Masonry with its organizing and
harmonizing forces must prepare the way It is the best ally that
civil government ever had for it prepares the way and performs
the hardest of its work in teaching and training men to govern
themselves Masonry is but in the infancy of its achievements
unless it cravenly deserts the logic of its principles our principles
are every telling our forms and ceremonies are venerable and
valuable only as the vessel that has borne the precious truths
and principles of our Order over the boisterous seas of the
ages. These principles lead to the very source of light they are
good to preach they are infinitely better to practice they are
good for others they are best for ourselves. Altogether the best
sign of the times the richest reward of our labors is found in
the evidence that Masonic principles are better understood and
practiced everywhere otherwise growth in numbers would be
a misfortune.”