Albert Pike is best known for his classic Freemasonic work called Morals and Dogma, but he was responsible for a number of other important books. This is one of those books, especially as it relates to the early development of the Freemasonic craft and its rituals. Pike held a great responsibility in Freemasonry, having been the Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA. He believed this collection of rituals was highly important, and originally prepared and authorized this book for sale in 1879. Those included are virtually unknown today, but shed light on the basis of Freemasonic degrees and rituals. Included are the Wigan Rituals and the Master Mark Mason Ritual, both of which are early, little-known versions of these degrees. The Maconnerie D"Yorke Rituals were found in New Orleans and contain a wealth of historical information pertaining to their use, including references to Joseph Cerneau. Cerneau had...