PROCEEDINGS.

Of the Grand Chapter Of the Order of the Eastern Star.MALVERN, June 13, 1893.

The Grand Chapter convened in its Eighth Annual Communication in the Hall at St. Luke's Lodge, No. 23, F. and A. M. The roll being called, the stations were filled as follows:Worthy Grand Patron, J. E. Peake.Associate Grand Patron, John Bragg.Worthy Grand Matron, Alice B. Havis.Associate Grand Matron, Mary J. Elliott.Grand Treasurer, Mattie A. Miller.Grand Secretary, J. C. Corbin.Grand Conductress, Abbie G. Peake.Associate Conductress, Maggie J. Arrington.Grand Lecturer, Dora Williams.Grand Chaplain, D. A. Williams.Grand Sentinel, Wm. Brown.Grand Warden, Carrie Brown.Grand Adah, Cora Johnson.Grand Ruth, Matilda Davis.Grand Martha, Fanny Young.Grand Electa, Emily Murphy.Grand Marshal J. G. Mitchell.

The Grand Chapter was duly opened with prayer by Brother D. A. Robinson, and singing, Prof. J. C. Corbin presiding at the organ.

The following were appointed as a Committee on Credentials, viz: Ida Young, Cora Johnson and Mattie Miller.

Whereupon the Grand Chapter took a recess.

After recess the Committee on Credentials presented the annexed report, which, as amended, was adopted, viz:

M. W. G. M., Officers and members of the M. W. G. C. of the O. E. S. of the State of Arkansas and jurisdiction:

We, your committee on Credentials, respectfully submit the following as entitled to seats in this Grand Chapter, viz:

Augusta No. 1. Augusta; no report.

Primrose No. 2. Newport; Nellie Cooper, W. M. Alice Vaughn, A. M., J. E. Peake proxy, D. S. Cooper, W. P.

Alpha No. 3. Hot Springs; Cora Johnson, W. M., Dora Williams, A. M., Monroe Wilson, W. P.

Adah No. 4. Little Rock; Maria Craigen, W. M., Mary E. Smith, A. M., Wm. Smith, W. P.

Electa No. 5. Pine Bluff; Sophia Snanks, W. M., Ida Young, A. M., D. A. Robinson W. P.

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Martha No. 6. McAlmot; Maggie Jackson, W. M., Nancy Rivers, A. M., T. M. Fairfax, W. P.

Ruth No. 7. Marche; no report.

Mary No. 8. Marion; no report.

Queen of the South No. 9. Arkadelphia; A. Peake, W. M., Lena Trigg, A. M., W. M. Brown, W. P.

Rebecca No. 10. Dardanelle, no report.

Edna No. 12 Crawfordville; No report.

Primrose No. 13. Jacksonport; no report.

Altheimer No. 14. Altheimer; Mattie Hollis, W. M., Laura Hurst, A. M., N. J. Hollis W. P.

Hensley Star No. 15. Hensley; LeGrande, W. M., S. H. Hurd, W. P.

Morrillton Star No. 16. Morrillton; no report.

Guiding Star No. 17. Brolaski; no report.

Widow's Son No. 18. Ft. Smith; Maggie Arrington, W. M., Nora Greene, A. M., Samuel Dean, W. P.

State Line No. 19. Texarkana; Mary J. Elliot, W. M., Charlotte D. Johnson, A. M. G. W. Johnson, W. P.

Golding Light No. 20. Gurdon; Amanda Nails, W. M., Cornelia Middleton, A. M., N. G. Pit's, W. P.

Western Star No. 21. iArgenta; no report.

Five Point Star No. 22. Marianna; no report.

Pearly Gate No. 23. Malvern; M. A. Mitchell, W. M., Fannie Young, A. M., J. G. Mitchell, W. P.

St. Mary No. 25. Okolona; Sidney Hendricks, W. M., Esther Cook, A. M., proxy Mattie Miller, W. P.

Bloom of Hope No. 26. Long Lake. No report.

Pilgrim U. D. Pilgrim; no report.

Phillis Wheatley U. D. Hot Springs; Callie Swan, W. M., Romare, A. M., G. W. Swans, U. D.

Plymouth Rock U. D. Seelig; M. E. Harrison, W. M., Sarah Edwards, A. M.

Mt. Olive U. D. Prescott; Susie D. Deadman, W. M., Fannie Webster, A. M., P. D. Dedway, U. D.

Esther No. 2., Not properly sealed. Primrose No. 13, report incorrect, properly sealed, Golden Light No. 20, not properly sealed. Altheimer No. 14, not properly sealed. The following are under dispensation, viz: Phillis, Wheatley, Hot Springs, Plymouth Rock, Seelig, and Mt. Olive, Prescott.Ida Young, }Mattie E. Miller }Committee.Cora Johnson,}

The following committees were appointed, viz:

On Charities, Sisters Arrington, Miller and Peake.

On Grievances, Sisters M. J. Elliott, Davis, and Jackson.

On Unfinished Business, Sisters Swan, Elliott and Triggs.

On Accounts, Sisters B. Mitchell, Robins and Fanny Young.

On Grand Patron's Report, Sisters M. A. Mitchell, Robinson and Jno. Bragg.

On Grand Matron's Report, Sisters M. A. Mitchell, Ida Young and Jno. Bragg.

On Ways and Means, Sisters Cora Johnson. Miller and Peake.

On By-Laws, Fanny Young, Brother Robinson and Sister 00044Brown.

On Condolence, Sisters Arrington, Swan and Brother Mitchell.

On Foreign Correspondence, Sisters Ida Young, Cora Johnson and Maggie Arrington.

The hours of session were fixed as follows: From 7 to 12 and 2 to 5.

The Grand Chapter was called off.

JUNE 13TH 2 O'CLOCK, P.M.The Grand Chapter resumed labor, Sister Alice B. Havis, Grand Matron, presiding.

The addresses and reports of the officers were read and properly referred, as follows:

Address of Grand Patron.Dear Sisters and Brothers: After another year of joys and sorrows, trials and hardships, successes and failures, we are again assembled around the "Star that was seen in the East,' to do homage to Him whose advent it heralded. And as that Star announced the birth of One whose mission on earth was to inculcate the lessons of "peace and good will among men," even so are we here today inspired by the Heavenly music that thrilled in the hearts of the shepherds, ready and willing to teach and practice those lessons of "Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth" which prepare us to administer to those around us "Advice in their troubles, sympathy in their sorrows and aid in their misfortunes."

Those of us who feel that we have, to the best our ability, exemplified those lessons since last we meet have just cause for congratulation. To others, if any here there be we would say:"It isn't the thing you do, dear,It's the thing you left undoneWhich gives you a bit of heartacheAt the setting of the sun.The tender word forgotton,The letter you did not write,The flower you might have sent, dear,Are your haunting ghosts tonight."

CONDITION OF THE WORK.

The financial condition of the country, the great amount of distress and suffering caused by the yearly overflows, and above all else, the cruel and inhuman treatment to which our people are in many places subjected have seriously affected our work the last year. I am proud to know, however, that a faithful few are still at their post of duty. Early in the year I issued a circular to the different Chapters asking for certain information as to their condition. The replies received, while highly gratifying and satisfactory in a few instances, were on the whole, of such a nature as to convince me that my presence was needed in many others. I therefore visited such Chapters as I could reach with the following result.

OFFICIAL VISITS.

State Line No. 19 at Texarkana, though small in number, is immense in all other respects. This chapter has not only met and satisfied every demand from its own members but has proven its usefulness by tenderly nursing through a long and serious illness, and finally performing the last sad rite over a sister of another jurisdiction who was within their gates. Nor is this all, for they have, by persistent teasing and coaxing, caused the members of Gate City Lodge No. 42 to purchase a beautiful lot on which to build a hall. It should be mentioned in this connection, however, that the brethren never consented to the purchase until the sisters assumed one half the responsibility 00055which they readily did and promptly met to the tune of $100, and, I believe loaned the brethren a part of the other half. G. M. Clark please copy.

Beulah No. 11, of Hope, is beyond all hope of a career of usefulness. The members of this chapter, while all professing a love for the order and a desire to go on have a kind of, "I do not like you Dr. Fell," feeling for each other which has actually killed the Chapter. The trouble grew out of a tilt over denominational issues and had the usual result. Churches, Chapter and no one else benefitted, and a once happy and peaceful community in a continual state of strife. Strange isn't it that a body of people all professing to be followers of the injunction, "love your enemies," should have so much trouble in trying to apply it to their friends? I arrested their charter at their own request.

Golden Light No. 20, of Gurdon is indeed a bright light in our galaxy, meeting in a nice hall of their own, possessing a nice regalia and ample funds to meet every demand they indeed represent a happy and well regulated family. After a pleasant time with the members I could only say in parting. Let your light continue to shine.

St. Mary's No. 25, of Okolona, once a happy and prosperous Chapter, is now, owing to the immoral conduct of some of its members, in a very bad state. They had ceased to meet and many of the members, because they could not right the wrong and punish the guilty party, had lost all interest. I did all in my power to set them right and will, at the proper time and place, lay their case before you for such action as you may deem best.

Queen of the South, No. 9. Arkadelphia, being my own chapter and the one over which my wife has the honor of presiding, I shall say but little about. She is doing a good work however.

Pearly Gate No. 23, of Malvern, is indeed a pearl of great price as all who attend the G. C. and witness their work both ritualistic and otherwise will see. Too much praise can not be bestowed on this chapter. Here again have the sisters proven their usefulness and right to recognition by the manner in which they have furnished and adorned their hall. G. M. Clark please copy.

Phillis Wheatley U. D. of Hot Springs, is in many respects, worthy of its illustrious name. Though organized in January, they posses the zeal of veterans. Already in possession of a beautiful regalia and ample funds for every emergency they are adding new members, lecturing and drilling them and doing a work that many of the old Chapters would do well to emulate.

Adah No. 4, Little Rock, entered into a season of "rest from its labors" immediatly after the last Grand Chapter. The "season" was quite a long one and the "rest" in some respects, I presume beneficial, for when my circular aroused them they went to work with such renewed zeal and energy that they soon added about fourteen members to their list by a method which, though highly acceptable in the end, is very questionable in the means.

Hensly Star, No. 15, Hensley, though one of our best Chapters was forced by adverse circumstances over which they had no control to suspend. Situated in a farming section the members saw their last hope for a crop float away in the ever recurring high water. But two courses were left to them, stay at home and suffer or seek employment elsewhere. They wisely chose the latter. Hence they are not meeting but the W. M. assured me that as soon as circumstances permitted the members to return they would resume work and meet every obligation. Their past record convinces me that they will do so.

Electa No. 5, Pine Bluff, seemed at one time last year during the political excitement which disturbed the peace of communities, societies and individuals, about to go down in the general wreck. A judicious and practical application of the lessons taught at the points of our central star however, enabled her to weather the storm, and safely to the port. When I last saw her she was seaworthy in every respect bearing no sign of 00066the terrible ordeal through she had but recently passed. Great credit is due to both the officers and members of this chapter for the intelligence and forbearance which they exhibited at this time.

Altheimer No. 14, Altheimer, had, for certain reasons more fancied than real, ceased to work. I succeed in adjusting, to the entire satisfaction of all parties, their troubles and started them off again with every assurance of a bright and happy future.

Primrose No. 13, Jacksonport, is doing a grand work. No Chapter in the State has a more earnest, devoted and intelligent, set of members than this one. They study our lessons as set forth in the different degrees and then apply them in their usual avocations. Here is another Chapter doing good work, a pleasure to its members and a blessing to the community.

Western Star, No. 21, Argenta, had again ceased to shine when I arrived. After ascertaining the cause and adjusting their troubles in a satisfactory manner, I left them, they assuring me that henceforth Western Star would not be a dead but a bright and shining member of our noble galaxy.

Esther No. 2, of Newport, though hampered by a small membership is doing splendidly in all other respects. Here too, the influence of the weaker sex is silently but steadily at work for a hall and, before long Bro. Clark will be bragging all over the state about the fine lodge room at Newport. I now serve notice on him, however, that the sisters shall have their share of the honor for they started the movement and are assuming equal responsibilities with the brethren. The books of this chapter show that it has already been of material and substantial aid to the brethren. All right sisters, continue to help them, but do not cease to watch them.

Martha No. 6, McAlmont, like the dear sister whose name it bears has suffered greatly in the loss of loved ones, but they profit by the lessons and confidently ask and receive consolation from him who said "I am the resurrection and the life, he that believeth in Me though he were dead, yet shall he live." This chapter is remarkable in many respects. Situated in the country, the members live from three to six miles from the hall, and yet they meet and comply with every obligation with rigid punctuality. Imagine my surprise when on reaching the hall in a heavy rain storm to find all the members present ready for work. On inquiry I learned that the W. M. and several of the members had been compelled to leave their teams and vehicles and "coon" foot logs over swollen streams from which the bridges had been washed away. A devotion to duty which some of our chapters who enjoy the luxuries of electric cars, concrete pavements and electric lights, would do well to emulate. After completing our work and installing the officers we had a royal time with the members and friends in exemplifying the "sixth degree" in what Bro. Corbin would call "very ample form." Go on Martha in the good work; safe in the assurance that though the "cup" may at times be very bitter, "it will in the end overflow with blessings rich, abounding and eternal."

Augusta No. 1, Ruth No. 7, Mary No. 8, Rebecca No. 10, Edna No. 12, Guiding Star No. 17, Five pointed Star No. 22, Bloom of Hope No. 26, Pilgrim U.D., Widow's Son No. 18 and Morrillton Star No. 16 I was again prevented by the overflow from visiting. Most of these Chapters are situated in the river counties and several are at this writing entirely surrounded by water and cut off from all outside communication. One unaccustomed to the condition of affairs in this section can have but a faint idea of the sufferings caused by the periodical overflows. To see crops stock, fences and everything movable washed away and then be compelled to live for weeks in the lofts of barns and gin houses with nothing but water, water everywhere is indeed very trying. When it is repeated four times in succession it is almost beyond endurance.

OFFICIAL ACTS.

Brother J.E. Filer, W.P. of Five Pointed Star No. 22, having been suspended from his lodge for immoral conduct I suspended him from the Chapter and appointed Brother W.K. Jones in his stead.

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Brother J.H. Goldsby, W.P. of St. Mary No. 25 having been expelled for the same cause I also removed him and appointed Brother W.A. Webster in his stead.

These cases will be brought to your notice in another form and I trust that you will thoroughly investigate them and take such action as in your judgment is just and right.

To much stress can not be placed on the question of morals for, by that one issue alone are judged and by its result will we succeed or fail. Though we speak with the tongue of angels and have not charity we are but sounding brass and tinkling cymbals. In like manner though we possess the wisdom of Solomon and the wealth of Croesus but are loose of morals we are whitened sepulchres, beautiful to the eye, but full of corruption and a stench in the nostrils of all good men.

DISPENSATIONS.

July 6, 1892, I granted a dispensation to No. 20 to open. August 15, 1892, I granted a dispensation to Callie Swan, G.W. Swan and others to form a Chapter at Hot Springs, to be known as Phillis Wheatley U.D. April 3, 1893, I granted a dispensation to Mary Wm. Harris and others to form a Chapter at Seelig known as Plymouth Rock, U.D. This work was done by W.K. Jones as special D.G.P.

May 17, 1893, I granted a dispensation to Susie B. Deadman, P.D. Deadman and others to form a Chapter at Prescott known as Mt. OLive, U.D.

OUR CIRCULAR.

The circular which I presented at our Fifth annual session and which you ordered printed and distributed, has more than justified its claim for existence. We have, and will present for your inspection, minutes, phamplets, circulars, and letters, from many of the different jurisdictions and leading men and women of our race. The issue involved are already subjects of serious consideration in several states, Especially is this the case in jurisdictions which contain both courts and chapters, complicating matters in such a way as to neutralize their own efforts and seriously interfere with the peace and harmony of mansonry. Nor is this all, for, so long as the present state of affairs continue we are at the mercy of every unscrupulous individual who is willing to enhance his own interests by peddling degrees and imposing on the credulity of the uninformed. Our only hope for ridding ourselves of these things is in some sort of union by which we can arrange for an exchange of representatives and correspondence, thus enabling us to hunt out and expose non-affiliates, clandestine, and impostors who are now doing business at our expense.

OUR HOME.

Not a few have expressed surprise at our efforts in this cause at our last meeting. It should be borne in mind that so far we havn't attempted to build the Home but to simply arouse an interest in the cause. Rome was not built in a day, neither do we expect to build our home in a year. We can, however, make a start. During the present year an institution of this kind in a northern state was finish and dedicated at a cost of over a quarter of a million of dollars. The movement had its inception in the heart of a noble brother who twenty years ago gave one dollar to start it. A small beginning, but behold the result. At the St. John celebration of Excelsior Lodge last Christmas this matter was mentioned and in a few seconds a liberal sum was placed on the table by craftsmen who were willing and ready to contribute to the relief of worthy and distressed brothers, their widows and orphans."That man may breathe, but never lives,Who much receives but nothing gives,Whom none can love,Whom none can thank,Creation's blot creation's blank.But he that marks from day to day,In generous acts his radiant way,Treads the same path the Savior trod.The path to glory and to God."

A GROWING EVIL.

I deem it my duty to again call attention to a condition of affairs that is likely to cause serious trouble if not checked. I refer to the scramble for office. Our order was not created for the sole purpose of bestowing honor and preferment upon individuals but for the more noble and glorious purpose of extending the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth to those around us. To accomplish this it is necessary to have intelligent leaders. It should be remembered however that "as some must rule and govern, so others must submit and obey." The first lesson taught the candidate on entering our order is patience. He is afterwards taught that his own attention to the direction of his superior officer will be the means of respect that others will give to him. Beautiful lessons, which if properly learned and practiced, will invariably bring a rich reward.

RECOMMENDATIONS.

1. As we have taken the initial steps in calling a National Convention I recommend that suitable action be taken to have our jurisdiction properly represented in said meeting when held.

2. I recommend that a competent committee be appointed to prepare an Easter Exercises for the use of subordinate Chapter.

3. I recommend that a day to be known as Star Day be agreed on. That the Committee on Easter Exercises be required to prepare a suitable program for the same and that each subordinate Chapter be required to carry out its provisions.

4. I recommend that it be made the duty of the W.M. of each subordinate Chapter to read, or cause to be read and explained, the minutes of the Grand Chapter each year as soon as received.

5. I recommend that each subordinate Chapter be required to make monthly reports to the G.P. stating the following facts. 1. Names of officers and members present at the regular communication. 2. Number admitted, demitted, reinstated, suspended, expelled and deceased. 3. Money collected, expended and balance on hand. General condition of the Chapter and any item of interest. That the Grand Secretary be requested to furnish the necessary blanks for the purpose and that they be made out and signed, sealed and forwarded by the proper officers.

6. I recommend that at the Easter and Star Day exercises, at all installations, dedications, anniversaries, and celebrations a collection be taken up for the benefit of the Home, that a memorial be presented to the M.W.G.M. of F. and A.M. asking him to urge all lodges under his jurisdiction to adopt the same course.

7. I earnestly recommend that each subordinate Chapter be recommended to subscribe for one or more Masonic journals in order that the members may post themselves and become familiar with the general condition of the order throughout the world. The necessity for, and benefits to be derived from such a course, will be apparent when I tell you that numbers of our members never see, hear, or know anything about the order except what transpires in their immediate vicinity, and that, sad but true, is not always of a nature to inspire respect for the institution. Several papers might be mentioned but there is one, the Eastern Star, owned and edited by a woman for the benefit of woman, it should receive the encouragement and support of woman.

G.M. Clark, who is proud to be known as a member of the O.E.S., has earnestly requested me to call an extra session of the Grand Chapter to convene at the same time and place of the Grand Lodge. Having seen the beneficial results of our order, he is anxious to have a Chapter in every lodge. Hence his desire for a joint session in order that delegates from lodges that have no Chapters may be convinced of the importance of the same. While I heartily endorse the movement I do not feel justified in anticipating the wishes of my successor by calling the meeting.

In conclusion, dear sisters, I desire to again impress upon you the importance of going forward in the work of extending the "reign of love and peace upon earth." The grand and noble results of the past should be a sufficient incentive for greater efforts in 00099the future. To you is assigned a difficult task. As members of a race that has been the innocent cause of civil and political agitations, for centuries, you are today the observed of all observers. Critically watched on one hand by those who eagerly embrace every opportunity to prove us an inferior race, incapable of ever reaching the scale of civilization attained by others. As carefully observed on the other by those ready and willing to accord to us every right and privilege embodied the doctrine that of one blood God created all mankind. It remains for us to disprove the false assertions, live down the prejudices, and disappoint the expectations of the one, and also meet the requirements, justify the prophecy, and deserve the good will of the other. Shall we do this? If so, everyone must do his whole duty. We have no room for drones and malcontents. Let no one feel to grand and great to assist in the work. Let no one feel too small and insignificant to be of service. Let the watchword of all be onward.

"Press on! Surmount the rocky steep,Climb boldly o'er the torren's arch,He fails alone who feebly creeps,He wins who dares the hero's march."

Permit me in returning to you the trust which you, one year ago, confided to my keeping, to tender my heartfelt thanks to one and all for the many kind deeds and encouraging expressions of which I have been the recipient.Fraternally yours,J.E. PEAKE, G.P.

ADDRESS of GRAND MATRON.

Officers and members of the M.W.G.C. of the O.E.S. of the State of Arkansas:

It affords me great pleasure to meet you once more in another Grand Chapter. Although death has stolen some of our loved ones, we are spared to meet again. Our hearts should be lifted to God in thanksgiving for his wonderful goodness toward us. We are engaged in a noble work, a work which seeks not only social but spiritual elevation. The work is built on a broad and noble foundation. Our Chapter is founded on the lives of heroines, whose nobility of character, whose sterling virtues each member should blend every energy to emulate. Let us strive to follow them. Jeptha's daughter who grave her life to live to save her father's honor, Ruth, who forsook the home of her father to follow the religion of the true God; Esther, who risked her life for the sake of her people; Martha, whose faith was strong and enduring; Electa, whose life illustrates patient endurance under persecution. To attain these virtues should be the desire of every heart. In the name of these heroines I beseech you, my dear sisters and brothers, to be faithful to your obligation. If we never meet again in another Grand Chapter, may we meet in that Grand Chapter above, where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest.ALICE B. HAVIS, W.M.

REPORT OF GRAND SECRETARY.

To the Grand Chapter, Order the Eastern Star for the State of Arkansas:

Following is the Account of receipts and expenditures for the year ending June 13, 1894:

RECEIPTS.EXPENDITURES.1892, June 14, Balance$6 321892, June 14CHAPTERS.PAYROLL.No. 23 75J. E. Peake$12 00No. 39 50C. Brown10 00NO. 43 50J. C. Corbin18 25No. 56 50S. H. Hurd6 25No. 63 50M. Bryant8 60No. 73 20Charter Pilgrim2 50No. 94 25Postage06No. 133 00Expressage to Peake35No. 144 50Minutes23 50No. 152 00Postage3 00No. 162 75Sundries35No. 173 00Expressage30No. 188 701893No. 195 50Circulars3 00No. 203 60Disp. Phillis Wheatly2 50No. 214 25Disp. Mt. Olive2 50No. 225 00Reports, etc3 60No. 233 50Postage30No. 253 50Grand Secretary's salary.. 10 00Long Lake3 00Disp. selig2 50Pilgrim10 23Balance5 99Phillis Wheatly4 50-------Mt. Olive6 50$115 75-------$115 75Respectfully Submitted.J.C. Corbin, Grand Sec. and Treas.

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The Committee on Accounts presented the annexed report, viz:

To the Grand Chapter: We have examined the financial report of the Grand Secretary and find the same correct.J.E. Mitchell, D.A. Robinson, Fanny Young,Committee.

The Committee on Charters presented the annexed report which was adopted, viz:

To the Most Worthy Grand Matron and Grand officers of the Grand Chapter of Ark:

We your Committee beg leave to make the following report, That Phillis Wheatley Chapter of Hot Springs be allowed a charter, Plymouth Rock Chapter of Seelig be allowed one and Mt. Olive Chapter at Prescott also be allowed a charter.Sisters Abbie G. Peake, Mattie A. Miller and Maggie L. Arrington.The Grand Chapter was called from labor to recreation.

Malvern, June 14, 1893.

The Grand Chapter resumed labor, Worthy Matron, Alice B. Havis, presiding. The following proceedings were had, viz:

Singing, "When Jesus comes to reward his people." Prayer by Brother D.A. Robinson, Grand Chaplin. The following communication was read, received and ordered placed on file. A vote of thanks was also returned to the Lodge and Chapter.

M.W.G.M. Officers and Members of the M.W.G.C. of the O.E.S. of the state of Arkausas and jurisdiction:

On behalf of Excelsior Lodge No. 13 and Queen of south Chapter No 9, of Arkadelphia. I present you $2.50 as the nucleus of a fund to establish a Widows and Orphans' Home in our jurisdiction. I am directed by both orders to say to you that this small sum is in no sense to be considered as an indication of the estimation in which we hold this movement, nor do we wish you to consider it as our sole contribution. Being first to give to this noble cause we assure you that we will be last to abandon it, should you put it on foot.Fraternally yours,Mrs. Abbie G. Peake, W.M.Queen of the South No. 9, Arkadelphia, Ark.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence presented the annexed report, viz:

To the Worthy Grand Matron and Grand Officers of the Grand Chapter of Arkansas:

We the Committee on Foreign Correspondence beg leave to make the following report. At Washington, D.C., T.A. Jackson, W.P. suggests May or June as the time and Washington the place of the National Convention: At Michigan, Mrs. S.H. Hunter Chairman on Foreign Correspondence suggests Chicago as place and second Wednesday in September the time; at Keokuk, Ia., M.E. Bland suggests Chicago as the place; at Chicago, C.A. Curl suggests Chicago as place and Sept. 14. the time; At Tennessee, C.C. Dodson suggests Louisville, Ky., or Nashville, Tenn., as place; at Michigan James Richards suggests Chicago, Detroit and Chatham as the place and time August: At Tenn., Rev. C.O.H. Thomas suggests Cincinnati as place and and August the time; At Indianapolis, H.A. Logan suggests Indianapolis as place; at Delaware, Asberry Sterling suggest N.Y. or Philadelphia as place. With very few exceptions all the correspondents are in favor of the National Convention of all the orders of Masonry. We recommend that each Chapter confer the degrees of the court on each of its members. We also recommend that the National Convention be held at any place which may be decided upon. Grand Chapter of the State of Arkansas decides that Chicago be the place, and third Tuesday in August as the time.Sisters Cora Johnson, Ida J. Young, Maggie Arrington, Committee.

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The report as amended was adopted.

On motion of J.C. Corbin the following we appointed as a committee to arrange a list of committees and an order of business. The Matron prevailed, and the following were appointed, viz: Ida Young, Mattie E. Miller and J.C. Corbin.

The Committee on Unfinished Business presented the annexed report, viz:

To the Worthy Grand Matron and officers of the Grand Chapter of the state of Arkansas

We your committee on unfinished business beg leave to make the following report, That the Seventh Grand Chapter held in Ft. Smith appointed a committee on Widow's and Orphan's Home and we recommend that it be taken up and acted on at this Grand Chapter. Respectfully submitted.Lena Trigg, Mary J. Elliott and Callie Swan,

The report was received and adopted.

The special Committee on Order of Business, etc., presented the annexed report.

M.W.G.M., officers and members of the M.W.G.C. of the state of Arkansas and jurisdiction:

We your special committee, beg leave to make the following report. We recommend the following new committees: On Officers Reports, On Condolence and On Foreign Correspondence. We recommend as order of business: 1. Opening; 2. Committee on Credentials; Recess; 3. Appointment of committees; 4. Reports of Grand Officers; 5. Report of committees; 6. New business; 7. Election of officers; 8. Closing.Mattie A. Miller, Ida J. Young and J.C. Corbin, Committee.

The report was adopted. The election of officers was made the special order for tomorrow at 10 o'clock a.m.

It was ordered that the next Communication should open on the second Tuesday in June in the city of Arkadelphia.

It was ordered that Subordinate Chapters send in their returns and dues to the Grand Secretary within ten days after the election in May.

The Grand Chapter was called from labor to recreation.

JUNE 14TH, 2 O'CLOCK, P.M.

The Grand Chapter resumed labor, Worthy Matron, Alice B. Havis, presiding. The following proceedings were had, viz:

The Committee on Returns presented the annexed report:

M.W.G.M., Officers and members of the O.E.S:We your committee on returns respectfully submit the following report;

Chapter.Due.Paid.Balance.August No. 1Esther No. 2.2 502 50Alpha No. 3.5 755 75Adah No. 4.10 0010 004 50Electa No. 5.4 504 50Martha No. 6,2 752 75Ruth No. 7.Mary No. 8.Q.of S. No 9.8 008 00Rebecca No.12.Edna No. 12.Primrose No 133 502 7575Pilgrim U.D.1 75 Chapter.DuePaid.Balance.Altheimer No. 14.Hensley Star 15,5 252 422 80Morrilton Star 16,2 08Guiding Star 17,Widow's Son 18,9 009 00State Line 19,3 503 50Golden Light 20,6 006 00Western Star 21,Five Point Star 22,Pearley Gate 23,4 504 50Mt. Moriah 24,2 502 4505St. Mary 25,2 752 75Bloom of Hope 26,J.G. Mitchell., Miss Fannie Young and D.A. Robinson. Com.

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The report was received and adopted.

The Special Committee on the Hot Springs' grievance presented the annexed report.

The report was adopted.

The following resolution was offered by Brother Mitchell and adopted, viz: "Resolved, That hereafter no Chapter be set up in a town where there is a Chapter, in working order, without consent of said Chapter. The motion prevailed.

The case of Sister Lucy Gaither was, on motion, referred to Excelsior Chapter for final disposal.

The Grand Chapter was called from labor to recreation until 9 o'clock a.m. tomorrow.

Malvern, June 15, 1893.The Grand Chapter resumed labor, Miss Alice B. Havis, Worthy Matron, presiding. Prayer by Brother D.A. Robinson. The following proceedings were had, viz:

The Committee on Grand Officers Addresses made the following report.

M.W.G.M., Officers and members of the M.W.G.C. of the state of Arkansas and jurisdiction:

We your committee on addresses, beg leave to make the following report;

We recommend that the address of the M.W.G.M. be received and adopted.

We recommend that a vote of thanks be tendered the M.W.G.P. for the zeal he has shown for O.E.S. by his labor amongst them during the year just closing.

We recommend that, the G.C. compliment the G.P. on his official visits.

We recommend the statement that the charter of Alpha No. 3 of Hot Springs was arrested be erased as it was reported a mistake.

We recommend the adoption of the recommendation to build a home.

The scramble for office is a growing evil which we recommend each member of the G.C. to avoid.

Recommendations: We recommend that section one be adopted; we recommend that section two be adopted; we recommend that section three be adopted; we recommend that section four be adopted; we recommend that section five be adopted with this exception, viz: that each subordinate chapter made their report quarterly; we recommend that section six be adopted; we recommend that section seven be adopted.

We leave the suggestion to have an extra session of the Grand Chapter to convene at the same time and place of the Grand Lodge to the consideration of the G.C.Dora Williams, Ida Young and John Bragg, Committee

The recommendations were discussed seriatine, and, as amended, were adopted.

The Committee on Ways and Means presented the annexed report which was adopted, viz:

To the M.W.M. and Officers of G.C. of the State of Arkansas:

We your committee on on Ways and Means beg leave to submit the following as our report:2. We recommend the W.G.M. be allowed R.R. fare $4.70, for board $3.00. 2. That the W.G.P. be allowed R.R. fare, $1.15; for board, $3.00, for postage $5.00.

We also recommend that our W.G.P. be allowed $10.00 additional. In view of the deficiency of money in the Grand Treasury and in view of paying for our minutes, we regret 001313that we cannot do more. We also recommend that W.G.P. be allowed $15.00, be sides his expenses, at each Grand Session hereafter.3. We recommend that W.G. Secretary be allowed $7.70.4. We recommend that G.A.M. be allowed $6.20.5. We recommend the G.A.P. be allowed $4.15.6. We recommend the Grand Treasurer be allowed $4.15.7. We recommend the Grand Lecturer be allowed $3.00.8. We recommend the Grand Electa be allowed $3.00.9. We recommend the Grand Adah be allowed $3.00.10. We recommend that the G.W. be allowed $4.15.11. We recommend the Grand Conductors be allowed $1.50.Respectfully submitted for your consideration,C. Johnson, A.G. Peake, M.A. Miller, Committee.

The Grand Chapter was called from labor to recreation.

June 15TH, 2 O'CLOCK P. M.

The Grand Chapter resumed labor, Mrs. Alice Havis presiding. The following proceedings were had, viz:

The following committee on Star Day and Easter was appointed, viz: Ida Young, M.J. Elliott and Mattie Miller.

On motion of Brother J. Corbin the date of the issuance of Mr. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation was selected as Star Day.

The Committee on By-Laws presented the annexed report, viz:

To the W.M. and W.P. and members of the G.C. of E.S. of the State of Arkansas.

We your committee on by-laws beg leave to make the following report to-wit: That the constitution and by-laws be so amended as to read that where there is a Chapter in a city or place in regular working order, that no new Chapter shall be set up without first getting the consent of the one already established.F. Young, D.A. Robinson and C. Brown.

Bro. J.E. Peake offered the following amendment, viz: "Provided that every warranted lodge shall be entitled to one chapter."

The report was received, and, as amended, adopted.

The Committee on Condolence offered the amended report, which was adopted, viz:

To the Worthy Grand Matron and Grand Officers of the Grand Chapter of Arkansas:

We your Committee on Condolence beg leave to make the following report: The departed answer not to our call; once they lived and labored, but now their star is set on this world, and they have passed into the light that is beyond the valley of the shadow of death. We shall no more hear their voice until we also have awakened in another world. Let us, however, not mourn, like those that have no hope. Our deceased sisters are Sisters Lucy Fulmiter, of Alpha Chapter No. 3, at Hot Springs. Brother W.M. Henry, of Martha's Chapter No. 6, at McAlmont. Sisters Dora Carpenter and Julia Reed, of Electa Chapter No. 5, at Pine Bluff. Respectfully submitted,Maggie Arrington, Cora Johnson, Callie Swan.

The special order, the election of officers was taken up. Sisters Ida Young, Arrington and Miller were appointed tellers. The following was the result:Grand Worthy Patron, J.E. Peake, Akadelphia. 001414Grand Associates Worthy Patron, D.A. Robinson, Pine Bluff.Grand Worhty Matron, Mary J. Elliott, Texarkana.Grand Associate Worthy Matron, Abbie G. Peake, Arkadelphia.Grand Treasurer, Alice B. Havis, Pine Bluff.Grand Secretary, J.C. Corbin, Pine Bluff.Grand Conductress, Callie Swan, Hot Springs.Grand Associate Conductress, Mattie Mitchell, Malvern.

The Worthy Matron, elect, announced that she would make the following appointments, viz:Grand Lecturer, Maggie Jackson.Grand Chaplain, Matilda Davis.Grand Adah, Dora Williams.Grand Martha, Georgia Butler.Grand Ruth, Amanda Nails.Grand Esther, Maggie Arrington.Grand Martha, Georgia Butler.Grand Electa, Mattie A. Miller.Grand Warden, Cora Johnson.Grand Sentinel, Green Pitts.Grand Marshal, J.G. Mitchell.

The following resolution was adopted, viz:

Resolved, That a vote of thanks be returned to the Pearly Gate Chapter No. 23, at Malvern, Ark., and also citizens of Malvern for their kindness showed us while in their city. Respectfully submitted, Cora Young.

A motion was adopted that the term of the next session shall be limited to two days.

The Secretary was authorized to use any funds coming into his hands for printing the minutes.

The Grand Chapter was called from labor to recreation.

8 O'CLOCK P. M. JUNE 13,1893.

The Grand Chapter met and proceeded to the lodge room, where officers were duly installed by Prof J.C. Corbin.

The Grand Lodge was closed until its next annual communication.J.E. PEAKE, Grand Patron.J.C. CORBIN, Grand Secretary.