Albert Mackey

“ The Ancient Charges, while they assert that every Mason should belong to a lodge, affix no penalty for disobedience. No man can be compelled to continue his union with a society, whether it be religious, political, or social, any longer than will suit his own inclinations or sense of duty. ”

“ A Mason's initiation was voluntary, and his continuance in the Order must be equally so.
But no man is entitled to a demit, unless at the time of demanding it he be in good standing and free from all charges. If under charges for crime, he must remain and abide his trial, or if in arrears, must pay up his dues.
There is, however, one case of demission for which a special law has been enacted. That is, when several Brethren at the same time request demits from a lodge. ”

“ The expediency of such a regulation is also highly questionable. Every candidate is required to come to our doors "of his own free will and accord," and surely we should desire to keep none among us after that free will is no longer felt. ”