Second Section.
Question—What were the preparatory circumstances attending your reception into this illustrious Order? Answer—I was conducted to the chamber of reflection, where I was left in silence and solitude, to reflect upon three questions, which were left with me in writing.
Q. What were your answers? A. They were satisfactory to the Grand Commander; but as a trial of my patience and perseverance, he enjoined upon me the performance of seven years' pilgrimage, clothed in pilgrim's weeds.
Q. What followed? A. I was then invested with sandals, staff, and scrip, and commenced my tour of pilgrimage, but was soon accosted by the guard, who demanded of me, "Who comes there?"
Q. Your answer? A. A poor and weary pilgrim, traveling from afar, to join with those who oft have gone before, and offer his devotions at the holy shrine.
Q. What said the guard? A. Pilgrim, I greet thee; gold and silver have I none, but such as I have give I unto thee.
Q. What followed? A. After having participated in the refreshments (which is a glass of water and a cracker), the guard took me by the hand and thus addressed me, "Pilgrim, harken to a lesson to cheer thee on thy way, and insure thee of success."
Q. What followed? Lesson read. (See Templar's chart.) The guard then took me by the hand and said, "Fare thee well! God speed thee on thy way."