He is, by a rejection of his request, left in the same position that he formerly occupied.

He is still an Entered Apprentice, in good standing; and the lodge may, at any time it thinks proper, reverse its decision and proceed to pass him.
If, however, he is specifically charged with any offense against the laws of Masonry, it would then be necessary to give him a trial.

Witnesses should be heard, both for and against him, and he should be permitted to make his defense.

The opinion of the lodge should be taken, as in all other cases of trial, and, according to the verdict, he should be suspended, expelled, or otherwise punished.
The effect of these two methods of proceeding is very different.

When, by a ballot, the lodge refuses to advance an Entered Apprentice, there is not, necessarily, any stigma on his moral character.