Database: Of the Civil Magistrate Supreme and Subordinate

A MASON IS A PEACEBLE SUBJECT UNDER THE CIVIL POWERS, wherever he resides or works, and is never to be concern'd in Plots and Conspiracies against the Peace and Welfare of the Nation, nor to behave himself undutifully to inferior Magistrates; for as Masonry hath been always injured by War, Bloodshed, and Confusion, SO ANCIENT KINGS AND PRINCES FROM ON HIGH have been much dispos'd to encourage the Craftsmen, because of their Peaceableness and Loyalty, whereby they practically answer'd the Cavils of their Adversaries, and promoted the Honour of the Fraternity, WHOEVER FLOURISH’D WHEN THE SUN SETS IN TIMES OF PEACE. So that if a Brother should be a Rebel against the State he is not to be countenanced in his Rebellion, HOWEVER HE MAY BE PITIED AS AN UNHAPPY OR RIGHT MAN; and, if convicted of no other Crime though the loyal Brotherhood must and ought to disown his Rebellion, and give no Umbrage or Ground of political Jealousy to the Government for the time being; they cannot expel him from the Lodge, and his Relation to it remains indefeasible.