"The Compass Of His Attainments" by Bill Shorto narrates a whimsical tale involving a character named 'enery, who discovers his Masonic heritage through his mother’s reminiscences. The story highlights themes of kindness and support within the Masonic community, as 'enery, initially homeless and seeking connection, is taken in by a Lordship who provides him with a stable life. As 'enery prepares for his Masonic initiation, the narrative emphasizes the importance of personal agency and the rituals surrounding acceptance into the fraternity. The tale culminates in a humorous mishap on the way to the Temple, illustrating the unpredictability of life and the significance of community support. While the document does not specify formal rules or procedures, it implicitly underscores the values of fraternity, responsibility, and the importance of being well-prepared for Masonic rituals. Overall, it serves as a light-hearted reflection on Masonic principles and the journey of self-discovery within the brotherhood.
Bill Shorto
December 16th, 2025
April 19th, 2026
manual
uncategorized
By I've told you the tale of his LordshipAnd the tramp he took home to his wife,To show what could happen to some-oneWho never had sinned in his life. It turned out the tramp's name was 'enery’,And his father had been on the squareAnd he was conceived on the FridayWhen his father was put in the chair. "A Lewis, by gad" said his Lordship,"And how did you come to be thereOn the pavement outside of the TempleWith nothing half decent to wears" Said 'enery, "I talked with me motherBefore she was took to her bed,She talked of one thing and another,And here's what the old lady said:" "I can't tell you much of your father,Except he was some kind of gentWho I met in the ‘all in Great Queen Street,-The one where the Masons all went". "So when the old lady departedAnd left me to fend for meself,I took to the road broken hearted,And thought of me father's great wealf." Now 'enery 'ad 'eard about Masons,How they were responsive and kind,So he parked himself there on the pavementAnd waited until they 'ad dined. At this his Lordship looked pensive,And started to work out the datesSince the time of his own installationWhen he went to the call with his mates. You know how his Lordship had found himAnd taken him home in the car,But the Lady refused to receive him.Well, you know what Ladyships are! So his Lordship made his arrangements,And set him up nice, in a flat,With a pension to feed and to clothe him,And you couldn't want better than that. Now 'enery began to get restiveWhen he thought what his life could be like,And he started to take driving lessonsSo his Lordship bought him a bike. But soon he was asking the questions,Being free, and at least twenty-oneAnd he rode off to tackle his Lordship,Who told him what had to be done. Well, the time came for 'enery's acceptanceThe date had been fixed in advanceThe secretary did all the homework,And the Master left nothing to chance. But when 'enery got on his cycle,-All dressed in his best quite a swell,He found that the chain had departedAnd the brakes were asunder, as well. Now the road to the Temple was easy,It ran down the side of the slope,They tied up the brakes w'th some sisal,And coasted off down full of hope. Well he got there in time for the ritual,But he asked at the festive boardHow the Master had known that he enteredOf his own free wheel and a cord!