2.  But, whatever may be the design of secrecy, secret associations do set up false claims.  They all, or almost all, claim to be charitable institutions.  This is the frequent boast of Masons and Odd-fellows.  Moore, in his “Constitutions,” declares that “charity and hospitality are the distinguishing characteristics” of Masonry. (P. 71.) In the charge to a “Master Mason,” at his initiation, it is declared that “Masonic charity is as broad as the mantle of heaven and co-extensive with the boundaries of the world.” (Masonic Constitutions, published by the Grand Lodge of Ohio, p. 80.) “The Right Worthy Grand Representative,” Boylston, in his oration delivered in New York, April 26, 1859, declared that Odd-fellowship is “most generally known and commended by its charities.” (Proceedings of Grand Lodge, 1859, App., p. 6.) Such is the style in which secret associations glorify themselves.  Such boasting, however, is not good.  It is contrary to the command of our Savior:  “Therefore, when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men.”  The boasting of secret associations about their charities is precisely what our Savior not only forbids, but also declares to be characteristic of hypocrites.  And such boasting is, indeed, generally vain.  When a man boasts of any thing, whether of his wealth, pedigree, bravery, wisdom, or honesty, there is good reason to suspect that his claims are not well founded.  Hence, the very boasting of secret associations about their benevolence and charities is presumptive evidence that their claims to the reputation of being charitable institutions are hypocritical and false.

3.  In the first place, “the benefits” are confined to their own members.  The excuse for secrecy, in some instances, is that it is necessary in order that aid may not be obtained by persons who are not members.  In the “charge” delivered to a Master Mason at his initiation, he is enjoined to exercise benevolence toward “every true and worthy brother of the Order.”  In Boylston’s address which we have already quoted from several times, “the well-earned glory of Odd-fellows” is declared to consist in this:  that “no worthy Odd-fellow has ever sought aid and been refused.” (Proceedings of Grand Lodge, 1859, App., p. 9.) It is provided in the Constitution of Odd-fellows, Good-fellows, etc., that aid shall be given to members under certain circumstances; but it will be in vain to search in them for any regulation providing for relief to any but members and their families.  The provision found in the constitution or by-laws of almost every secret association that members “in arrears for dues” shall not be entitled to “benefits,” plainly shows that their vaunted “charity” is restricted to their own members.  This would not be so bad were it not for the fact that they carefully exclude from membership all who need aid or are likely to