greeneggsnham:

""There is not a subject so little understood by even its own members as that of Freemasonry. It is not in the strict sense an order. Its purpose is more clearly defined when it is called a fraternity, a brotherhood, or an institution. It is certainly not a club. Ritualism is not Masonry. The ritual is the vehicle which conveys the sublime truths to the heart and mind. If the forms and ceremonies through which the candidate passes fail to lift him to higher conceptions of life, duty and charity, then they are mere sounding brass and tinkling cymbal.""

West Australian Craftsman