1 JANUARY 1927, Page 21

Mr. Ward's Freemasonry and the Ancient Gods (Simpkin, 21s., Revised

Edition) is an esoteric work which will be resorted to by masons of high degree and correspondingly keen enthusiasm. To establish his theory that Masonry roots deep into antiquity, the author ransacks the folklore of the world and brings to light many instances of savage usage and ceremony, which he considers find an echo in Freemasonry as we know it to-day. Of Mr. Ward's industry there can be no doubt, but he makes large demands on our credulity when lie avers that the true origin of Freemasonry is to be found in " the ancient initiatory rites and corroborec cere- monies of our pm-historic ancestors." However, time book is full of varied and fascinating speculations.