Scorpion,
I like your last thoughts:
*** I do believe he knew a great deal about them and even resorted to some of their practices or beliefs. After all, he did conduct services in their halls. How could he not learn about the Masons and what they were involved in. ***
Knowing a little of CTR's background in business, should give us a clue as to his possible association, if not outright recruitment by the Mason's, whether he ever actually took the 'pledge' is pure semantics. You hit right, he was in no uncertain terms, very cozy with the Mason's, adopting many of their idea's...transposing them into his Bible message.
You also nailed it when you question why certain, so-called thinker's and literary critics, take it upon themselves to pass judgement, about what is relevant or credible, expecting everyone to just roll over and accept THEIR conclusions. Bullshit is bullshit and it always will be...they are full of it.
Thanks for a ray of sunshine, and the willingness to fight for freedom of thought and expression. Its the only way any of us will really find some 'truth'.
Danny
Danny