In this country, the anti-masonic persecutions of 1828, and a few years subsequently, by causing the cessation of many lodges, threw a vast number of Brethren out of all direct connection with the institution; on the restoration of peace, and the renewal of labor by the lodges, too many of these Brethren neglected to reunite themselves with the craft, and thus remained unaffiliated.

In all calamities, persecutions whatsoever, as David did, 2 Sam. ii. 22, he will sing with him, "the Lord is my rock, my fortress, my strength, my refuge, the tower and horn of my salvation," &c.