A real Freemason is distinguished from the rest of Mankind by the

uniform unrestricted rectitude of his conduct. Other men are honest in fear

of punishment which the law might inflict; they are religious in expectation

of being rewarded, or in dread of the devil in the next world. A Freemason

would be just if there were no laws, human or divine except those written

in his heart by the finger of his Creator. In every climate, under every

system of religion, he is the same. He kneels before the Universal Throne

of God in gratitude for the blessing he has received and humble

solicitation for his future protection. He venerates the good men of all

religions. He gives no offense, because he does not choose to be

offended. He contracts no debts which he is certain he cannot discharge,

because he is honest upon principle.