These degrees were abolished by the National Encampment, a few years after the first formation of the order, and the rules have been simplified in regard to initiations and other points of ritual, till the Grand Army of the Republic can hardly be said to be in any sense a " secret " society, any more than an army in the field, in which the countersign forpa.'^sing a sentry at night is the only thing not patent to all the world.

The objects of the order, set forth in the rules and regulations (Chap. 1, Art. 11) are as follows :

"1. To preserve and strengthen those kind and fraternal feelings which bind together the sohliers, sailors and marines who united to suppress the late Rebellion, an<l to perpetuate the memory and history of the dead.

"2. To assist such former comrades in arms as need help and protection, and to extend needful aid to the widows and orphans of those who have fallen.

"3. To maintain true allegiance to the United States of America, based upon a paramount respect for, and fidelity to, the National Government and laws ; to discountenance whatever teuds to weaken loj'alty, incites to insurrection, treason or rebellion, or in any manner impairs the efficiency of our free institutions ; and to encourage the spread of universal liberty, equal rights and justice to all men."

The persons eligible to membership are all Ao«orably discharged soldiers, sailors and marines, " who served between April 12, 1861, and April 9, 1865, " and the members of State regiments that were mustered into United States service between those dates, and became "subject to the orders of United States general officers." No person who has at any time, even under compulsion, borne arms against the United States can be admitted to membership, even though otherwise eligible.