Masonic Book Club, Vol. 20: A Candid Disquisition of the Principles and Practices of the Most Ancien

The Introduction (pages 1-13) explains why Freemasonry came into existence. Since man is "a social being," "men must of necessity form associations for their comfort and defence." Thus it is that we "assemble with men of similar opinions and manners, not out of necessity for the preservation of our lives, but to render them more beneficial to others and pleasing to ourselves; by enabling us to perform those duties, and afford that assistance to each other in a united capacity, which as individuals we were unable to do." One organization that operates on these principles is the institution of Free and Accepted Masons, "an establishment founded on the benevolent intentions of extending and confirming mutual happiness." It necessarily follows that its activities are directed largely to works of compassion, charity, and universal benevolence. The first chapter (pages 15-34) states that the author intends to discuss "the origin, nature and design" of Masonry, and that he will "confute and avert the many shameful and idle falsehoods which are industriously propagated by its enemies." To this .nd he has collected "a great number of passages from writers eminent.