of Governor Herbert, R. O'Conor

483

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS • \
STATE CONVENTION.: • «,
September 16, 1941
Cumberland

IN times like these, when the forces of hatred and aggression have thoroughly
upset the peace and security of the whole world, it is a refreshing privilege
to come before the members of an organization whose every precept is the
direct antithesis of the enmities so prevalent today.. '

Inspired by the eternal friendship of Damon and Pythias, the Knights of
Pythias and its auxiliary, The Pythian Sisters, were founded for charitable and
benevolent purposes. Their long and successful history is a consoling argu-
ment for the democratic belief that the brotherhood of man can be, and aided
by such -organizations as yours, actually has been the rule of life for millions
of people in this Country these many years. -

The example of your organization and of other fraternal organizations in
our Country, is continuing and conclusive evidence that there are other factors
in the life of mankind than might and brute force. May the time return soon
when all the world again will realize the truth of the principles embodied in
your ritual!

As the Chief Executive of our State, I am very happy to have the oppor-
tunity to extend to the Knights of Pythias and its auxiliaries the appreciation
of the people of Maryland, an appreciation based not alone on the high objec-
tives of your Order, but also and more directly upon your well-known achieve-
ments in the field of charity and benevolence.

The fact that the members of your Order are persons of the highest stand-
ing in community and business life, is a real consideration, of course. However,
the crowning quality characterizing the tradition of your fraternity is to be
found in the generous and unselfish assistance which your great organization
has extended for years to many who would be otherwise helpless and forgotten.

With the Golden Rule as your motto, and such key words as Purity, Love,
Equality and Fidelity to inspire you, it is easy to understand the progress
your Order has made in achieving its purpose of promoting the moral, social
and physical welfare of its members. You may be sure that our people gen-
erally, outside of your membership, are well acquainted with your many acts
of brotherhood and charity.

It is a fortunate thing, indeed, for this Country that your organization,
and similar associations of patriotic men and women, are in existence. Your
very membership in the organization proves your devotion to American ideals
and principles, for otherwise you could not have secured membership. Your
continuation as active members demonstrates that you are "carrying on" the
practices of loyal sons of the Nation to the perpetuation of which your organi-
zation is committed.