Chapter 3.

Lodge 341 Vermissa Part 2.

What's that, Cried the Black-Mained Body Master from the end of the table?

Tis our new brother, sir, who finds our ways to estates.

McMurdo rose to his feet, for an instant.

I would say eminent body-master that if a man should be wanted, I should take it as an

honor to be chosen to help the Lodge.

There was great applause at this.

It was felt that a new son was pushing its rim above the horizon.

To some of the elders, it seemed that the progress was a little too rapid.

I would move, said the secretary, the harrow-way, a vulture-faced old greybeard who sat near the

chairman, that brother McMurdo should wait until it is a good pleasure of the Lodge to

employ him.

Sure, that was what I meant.

I'm in your hands, said McMurdo.

Your time will come, brother, said the chairman.

We have marked you down as a willing man, and we believe that you will do good work in

these parts.

There is a small matter tonight in which you may take a hand if it so please you.

I will wait for something that is worthwhile.

You can come tonight anyhow, and it will help you to know what we stand for in this community.

I will make the announcement later.

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