[The Principles of Masonic Law by Albert G. Mackey]@TWC D-Link book
The Principles of Masonic Law

CHAPTER IV
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There is no room for argument here, for the General Regulations are express on this subject.
"No man can be made or _admitted a member_ of a particular lodge," says the fifth regulation, "without previous notice one month before given to the said lodge." And the sixth regulation adds, that "no man can be entered a Brother in any particular lodge, or _admitted to be a member_ thereof, without the unanimous consent of all the members of that lodge then present." So that it may be considered as settled law, so far as the General Regulations can settle a law of Masonry, that a Master Mason can only be admitted a member of a lodge when applying by petition, after a month's probation, after due inquiry into his character, and after a unanimous ballot in his favor.
But there are other rights of Master Masons consequent upon membership, which remain to be considered.

In uniting with a lodge, a Master Mason becomes a participant of all its interests, and is entitled to speak and vote upon all subjects that come before the lodge for investigation.

He is also entitled, if duly elected by his fellows, to hold any office in the lodge, except that of Master, for which he must be qualified by previously having occupied the post of a Warden.
A Master has the right in all cases of an appeal from the decision of the Master or of the lodge.
A Master Mason, in good standing, has a right at any time to demand from his lodge a certificate to that effect.
Whatever other rights may appertain to Master Masons will be the subjects of separate sections.
Section II.
_Of the Right of Visit._ Every Master Mason, who is an affiliated member of a lodge, has the right to visit any other lodge as often as he may desire to do so.

This right is secured to him by the ancient regulations, and is, therefore, irreversible.

In the "Ancient Charges at the Constitution of a Lodge," formerly contained in a MS.


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