This degree differs from the first or probationary degree in the fact that
those upon whom it is conferred are of the better class of the masses, and
take upon themselves a more binding oath, administered under circumstances
intended to be more impressive in character. The candidate for this degree
is brought blind-folded into the center of the Camp, and caused to kneel
at an altar erected for the occasion, his right hand placed upon a Bible,
and his left upon a human skull. The Commander then says:
"Brethren, _must_ it be done?"
The members respond, "_It must!_" and this in a tone intended to strike
terror to the heart of the novitiate.
The candidate, of course, has no knowledge of what is meant by the ominous
"_Must it be done?_" and there is a mournful groaning in the response "_It
must!_" indicating that a terrible experience awaits him, which the
Brotherhood would gladly spare him if they could.
A death-like silence ensues for a few moments, which seem ages to the
candidate, and affords ample opportunity for his imagination to picture
the unheard-of horrors through which he may possibly be called to pass.
The silence is finally broken by the Commander, who says:
"BRETHREN, this brother _now_ kneels at the altar of our faith, and asks
to be bound to our fortunes by the more solemn and mysterious provisions
of our Order. Fortunately for him in this hour of peril, he has been found
worthy, and in commemoration of his being made one of the great 'Unknown
Multitude,' I again ask, '_Must it be done?_'"