The three virtues of an Entered Apprentice Freemason are symbolically designated the Precious Jewels, which are an Attentive Ear, a Silent or Instructive Tongue and a Faithful Heart.

An Attentive Ear

Is to be given to the instructions of your superiors and to a request for assistance rendered by a poor and distressed, but worthy, Brother. All too often the Entered Apprentice having availed himself of the virtue of membership, crosses the portal of Freemasonry then satisfies himself with indolent procrastination: merely scratching the surface of the subject, not realizing that with just a small application of effort, he might be rewarded by a rich seam of knowledge and a treasure-house of moral teachings.

A Silent Tongue

Is the sanctuary of Prudence and Discretion. This virtue is essential to Freemasons in order that the veil behind which our Mysteries are hidden, might not be incautiously drawn aside. It ought also to remind us that we should, "speak evil of no man" and that it is more honourable to vindicate than to accuse.

If bold in virtue's cause it spoke,
yet gentle concord never broke...
If falsehood's honey it disdained,
and when it could not praise, was chained.