It has been revealed, however, that this phase of the Klan movement has been much fathered by the sales crew selling subscriptions at $10 each under the direction of Wizard Simmons and Imperial Kleagle Clarke.
The exact text of the oath of allegiance administered to new members of the Ku Klux Klan is given herewith. The asterisks are printed to take place of the Ku Klux Klan and also the officers of the order. These places are left blank in the printed oath because it is carried by Klan officials and might be lost, revealing their secret.
The oath:
You will place your left hand over your heart and raise your right hand to heaven.
SEC. I.—OBEDIENCE
(You will say) "I" —— (Pronounce your full name —— and repeat after me) "In the presence of God and Man —— most solemnly pledge, promise and swear —— unconditionally —— that I will faithfully obey —— the constitution and laws —— and will willingly conform to —— all regulations, usages and requirements —— of the * * * * —— which do now exist —— or which may be hereafter enacted —— and will render at all times —— loyal respect and steadfast support —— to the Imperial Authority of same —— and will heartily heed —— all official mandates —— decrees —— edicts —— rulings and instructions —— of the I* W* thereof. —— I will yield prompt response —— to all summonses —— I having knowledge of same —— Providence alone preventing.
SEC. II.—SECRECY
"I most solemnly swear —— that I will forever —— keep sacredly secret —— the signs, words and grip —— and any and all other —— matters and knowledge —— of the * * * * —— regarding which a most rigid secrecy —— must be maintained —— which may at any time —— be communicated to me —— and will never divulge same —— nor even cause the same to be divulged —— to any person in the whole world —— unless I know positively —— that such person is a member of this Order —— in good and regular standing —— and not even then —— unless it be —— for the best interest of this Order.
"I most sacredly vow —— and most positively swear —— that I will not yield to bribe —— flattery —— threats —— passion —— punishment —— persecution —— persuasion —— nor any enticements whatever —— coming from or offered by —— any person or persons —— male or female —— for the purpose of —— obtaining from me —— a secret or secret information —— of the * * * * —— I will die rather than divulge same —— so help me God ——
AMEN!"