What is promised regarding the secrets of a brother master mason?

• A. I will share the secrets of a brother mason when asked.
• B. I will keep the secrets of a brother master mason, with exceptions for murder and treason left at my option.
• C. I will reveal secrets to non-Masons to ensure accountability.
• D. I will defame a brother if they have harmed me.

Answer: (B)

Keeping the secrets entrusted to a brother master mason is the fundamental duty here. The pledge to guard those secrets expresses the seriousness of trust within the fraternity: information learned in confidence is not to be shared outside the circle of brethren, and only those who have the right to receive them—fellow Master Masons—should hear of them. The statement that one will keep the secrets with exceptions for murder and treason left to one's option reflects the idea that there are extraordinary circumstances where disclosure might be considered, rather than aiding or revealing to non-Masons or harming a brother. This aligns with the principle of safeguarding a brother’s confidences while allowing for accountability in extreme situations. In contrast, promises to reveal on demand, share with non-Masons, or defame a brother violate the fundamental oath of secrecy and brotherly conduct.