On the 20th of October, 1903, the first edition of one thousand Monitors
was placed on sale. I supposed I would probably dispose of them in the
course of a year, but to my surprise, by December 20 they were all sold.
I placed the second edition of one thousand on sale February 24, 1904,
and by June 15 they were gone. Evidently the Monitor fills a long felt
want.
It was prepared especially to conform to the work in this jurisdiction.
It may be studied with profit by every Mason, whether he be an officer
or not. The youngest Entered Apprentice will find it helpful and useful
in assisting him to fix upon his mind those beautiful first lessons. The
officers from Master of Ceremonies to Worshipful Master will find it
convenient and indispensable in the performance correctly of the
beautiful ceremonies of the institution.
I am gratified beyond expression at the cordial reception the Monitor
has received from the craft.
It is commended in the highest terms by the best workers in the State.
Here are only a few of the hundreds of endorsements sent me.
Grand Master Hicks: "It is the best Monitor to be found for Arkansas
Masons."
Grand Lecturer Oathout had the manuscript sent to his home that he might
very carefully examine it, and he wrote: "I have carefully examined the
manuscript of your Monitor twice over and cheerfully give my
endorsement, believing it to be the best Monitor I have ever seen. I
believe your work will be appreciated by the Craft in Arkansas when they
examine the Monitor."
Brother G. W. DeVaughan, Custodian of the Secret Work: "I am very much
pleased with it."
Brother W. M. Kent, the other custodian of the Secret Work: "Good; I
want another copy."
Our Senior Past Grand Master G. A. Dannelly, who was so long the Grand
Lecturer, says: "I have read it carefully. In my judgment it is the best
Monitor I ever saw. I heartily congratulate you on being the author of
such a book. I recommend it to all the lodges. It would be well if every
member would supply himself with a copy."
Past Grand Master R. H. Taylor: "I have carefully reviewed it from
opening to conclusion. It is a work of great merit, concise and clear,
free and easy of style. It is not alone valuable and useful as a guide
to Arkansas Masons, but to Masons everywhere. In fact if adopted by
other Grand Jurisdictions, would simplify and beautify Masonic work.
Every Mason in the State should own and study the Arkansas Monitor."
Past Grand Master Sorrells, who made the motion in Grand Lodge to have
the Monitor prepared, says: "I have examined it closely, and feel sure
that it will meet the approbation of the Craft throughout this
Jurisdiction."
Past Grand Master Bridewell: "I have examined it and find it complete.
To a newly made Mason it is indispensable, and if every one of them
would get a copy immediately after their raising we would have brighter
and better Masons. It would do a world of good if many of the older
Masons would make it their 'vade mecum.' You have eliminated an immense
quantity of useless matter contained in most Monitors, and that which
you placed in lieu is clear and easily understood. The chapters on
'Laying Corner Stones,' 'Dedicating Lodges,' 'Funerals,' etc., will be
appreciated by all who have those services to perform."
Past Grand Master Baker: "Have examined it carefully and am well
pleased. I think it conforms to the ancient usages of Masonry, and I
feel sure that by the use of it we will have many more Masons in
Arkansas who know something of lodge work. Every lodge ought to have at
least three copies."
Past Grand Master Harry Myers: "I have carefully examined your Monitor
and consider it the best for our lodges possible to get. It is concise,
yet comprehensive. It takes up the work and follows it in order. No
lodge should be without it. I wish every Mason in the State would
possess himself of this valuable addition to Masonic literature at
once."
May it do more and more good as its circulation increases and its
influence widens.
GEORGE THORNBURGH,
July 1, 1904. Little Rock, Arkansas