OPENING.--The brethren sit cross-legged, and lean their heads on their
right hands. Most Potent knocks seven (Grand Marshal rises), "Brother
Grand Marshal, are we all Elected Knights of Nine?" Ans. We are.
Q. Your place? A. In the north, Most Potent.
Q. Your business there? A. To see that the Chapter is duly
guarded.--"Please attend to your duty, and inform the Sentinel that we
are about to open this Chapter of E. K. and charge him," etc. Marshal
obeys. Most Potent knocks eight, and Warden rises, and Master says,
"Brother Stokin, are you an E. K.?" A. One cavern received me, one
lamp gave me light, and one fountain refreshed me. Q. What is the
hour? A. Break of day. Most Potent knocks eight quick and one slow
strokes, and companies all arise. Most Potent says, "If it is break of
day, it is time to open a Chapter of E. K's. Inform the companies,"
etc. Warden obeys. Signs given. Most Potent knocks eight and one, and
Warden eight and one, and companies eight and one, with their hands;
and Most Potent declares the Chapter open.
LECTURE.--Question--Are you an E. K.? A. One cavern received me, one
lamp gave me light, and one fountain refreshed me.
Q. Where were you received? A. In the audience chamber of Solomon.
Q. How were you received? A. I was hoodwinked and conducted by the
Master of Ceremonies to the door of the Chapter, where he gave eight
and one distinct knocks.
Q. To what do those knocks allude? A. To the number of the nine elect.
Q. How were those knocks answered? A. By eight and one from within.