Brethren:

We have heard a great deal about the wages of a Fellowcraft. It is as Master Masons that we labor as Masons. Then why are we taught nothing about the wages of a Master Mason? The reason that we do not find wages of a Master Mason described is undoubtedly the same reason that explains lack of interpretation of our Symbols, so must each of us find for himself his wages of a Master Mason. One brother may not be paid the same as another. One may receive wages in gratitude of one for whom he has performed an act of charity. Another may receive wages in the joy that comes from having brought cheer into a sick room. Another may receive wages in the appreciation of Brethren to whom he has imparted something of Masonic knowledge. Another may receive wages in the gratitude of a Brother's family to whom he has been a mainstay during their hour of grief. Another may receive wages in honor conferred wages in the friendship that comes to him through his Masonry. Another may receive wages in the satifaction he derives from service to others. Another may receive wages that to him seem sufficient when he is priviledged to coach some one in the lectures, or when he is given a part in degree work. Wages of a Master Mason are not paid in silver or gold or articles of commerce and may deteriorate and molder through the passage of the years. They are paid in those things that the Brother may keep within the repository of the faithful breast. They are paid in those things that are secure in the hearts of his Brethren and his friends. The wages of a Master Mason have no intrinsic value. They can not be measured by any standard by which the value of intrinsic things is measured. Wages of a Master Mason are measured only by the value placed upon them by the one who received them.

Author, Elbert Bebe, 33*

Fraternally

Richard Koop, W.M.