I am writing this foreword in the middle of one of the worst pandemics the world has encountered, at a time when everyone is looking for a little hope and inspiration.

Having celebrated the tercentenary of Freemasonry in 2017, we are now facing the longest period of abstinence from our meetings that most of us will have known.

It is therefore a comforting reminder of better times, to read this collection of Masonic rhymes and to remind ourselves of the strengths, values and friendships that first attracted us to the Order

I first encountered Ant's poetry towards the end of 2019 and, since that time, whenever anything of note has occurred within the Province, Ant has always had a suitable poem ready – to entertain and inspire.

This book has involved a tremendous amount of work by Ant, not just in the creative processes of writing but also in trying to achieve his aim of seeing his work published. The poems draw on his experiences whilst serving in the forces and also his strong commitment to Freemasonry.

I hope that when you read these poems, they will help you to reflect on what Freemasonry means to you, to remember the reasons why you joined the Order and that they will inspire us all to better things.

I commend this collection to you, whether a Freemason or not. I hope that you will enjoy reading it as much as I did and that it will provide hope and encouragement to us all for the future.

W. Bro David G Maskell. PSGD. Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

January 2021.