The following definition of Masonic character appeared in an 1823
edition of the Farmers Almanac that was published in Andover, Massachusetts.
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The real Freemason is distinguished from the rest of mankind by the uniform
unrestrained rectitude of his conduct. Other men are honest in fear of
punishment that 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 the heart by the fingers of his Creator. In every climate, under every
system of religion, he is the same. He kneels before the throne of God in
gratitude for the blessings that he has received; and in humble
solicitations for his future protection. He venerates the good men of all
religions; he disturbs not the religion of others. He restrains his passions
because they cannot be indulged without injuring his neighbor or himself. He
gives no offense because he does not choose to be offended. He is honest
upon principle.
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