The Sloane Manuscript (1646) includes the following question and answer to prove a visitor a Mason:

Q. Wt is the key of your Lodge doors made of?

A. It is not made of Wood Stone Iron or steel or any sort of mettle but the tongue of a good report behind a Brothrs back as well as before his face.

Many Lodges still select appropriate candidates for Masonry through good report, or personal recommendation.

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