In Wisconsin, if there is a black ball, the Worshipful Master informs the lodge that the brother who cast the black ball has 48 hours to tell him the reason for the black ball. If no one comes forward, the ballot is declared clear. If a reason is given to the Master, it is forwarded to the Grand Master, who determines if the reason is within the rules of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin. If so, the black ball is upheld, if not, the petition is accepted.
I was so skeptical when I first heard this, that I checked it myself, and there it was, in the Wisconsin Masonic Code, clear as day.
What an excellent way forward Mark. I can see this method being highly desirable in England
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