The Trial of the Grand Master

By Xlibris US

Hiram Stone, former chief justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court, had no way of knowing that by becoming the grand master of Free and Accepted Masons that he would be subjected to charges of murder in a criminal court of law and also face expulsion from the craft for un-Masonic conduct. The profane district attorney seemed bent on revenge for having been rejected by the Masons. The political influence of Masonry in the Deep South during the depression and the strong sense of loyalty combine with mystery, secrecy, and Masonic rules to weave a captivating story of intrigue. Even in the highest parts of the criminal justice system, the all-seeing eye and the mysteries of the craft have unseen influence.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 30, 2014
• ISBN: 9781499056693

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

I T WAS COLD—VERY cold. Winter in the South seems to carry more devastation as her children spend so much time trying to stay cool that little thought is given to freezing to death. This February of 1933 in North Louisiana seemed to be especially cold. Sleet and rain had turned every road into a quagmire. Travelling but for the most necessary of things was not considered.

With nothing but a tin roof and wooden floor to keep out the cold and two wood-burning fireplaces for heat, the Honorable Hiram Joshua Stone packed the suitcase he had packed so many times before. This time was different though. He had made the trip to New Orleans many times as justice and then chief justice of the Supreme Court of Louisiana. This time was much more important and deserved more attention to what had to be carried and what could be left behind.

He went through his checklist: white apron, gloves, Masonic jewel, book on rules of Masonic law. Yes, I have all that I need, he thought. At least the most important things. Each item was folded correctly, gently, as if it was alive and needed to be comfortable in the travel. Every inch of space was considered. Was there room to bring back the other apron and the other things that he expected would be offered to him? He would make room somehow, even if he had to wear them under his overcoat. He would do what was necessary for the Craft. That was what it was all about. Still, he knew that Sara would expect something and, well, he would just have to carry it.

Everything was ready, and he left the warmth of the bedroom and entered the larger, more open part of the house to say good-bye to Sara. He knew it was not going to be easy, but he knew she understood.

Hiram, I am so proud of you. This has to be a dream come true for you. To be elected to serve as grand master is truly a great honor. If only your father could be here. If . . .

Well, Sara, he is not here, and even if he were here, he would tell me not to get above my raising. And besides, you know it doesn’t pay anything. They probably decided on me because I have a small pension to live on while the rest of them are just pecking with the chickens.

My god, Hiram. How could you say that after all you have done? The years of work you have put in—that is not to mention the money, time away from home, and even work at home. No one deserves it more than you do. I cannot imagine another more worthy person. If they did not think you so worthy, would they have made you a 33rd years ago? No. They know a good man, and that is why you are going to be the grand master, and you are going to be the best grand master ever.

We shall see, Sara. We shall see. At least I will get to spend some time with William. I swear, Sara, our son has the mind that I could only dream about. He can look at something once, and it is there forever. I struggle to get by, and to him it is easy. I wonder if he has been blessed or cursed. At least everyone is impressed with him. Now that he is an attorney and the son of the expected grand master, maybe he will do better than I did.

Hiram, he worships you and only wants to do as well as you. Do not think of things in terms of money. This depression will not last forever, and when it is over, he will make his way. He will be successful, but that does not mean that you are not already successful. He thinks you are the most successful man in the world. Don’t let him think differently.

So mote it be. He is waiting in the truck. Say a prayer and make sure that John Henry keeps the fire going. I don’t want to come home to a sick wife. I love you and I will miss you.

CHAPTER TWO

T HE DRIVE TO New Orleans was a torture just short of hell. The only roads that were paved or concrete were in towns. The roads connecting the towns