THE BIRMINGHAM DAILY POST

Birmingham, Warwickshire, England

16 May 1917

(page 7)

POLICE RAID ON LONDON MYSTICS.

THE PROGRAMME OF “M. M. M.”

There was a sequel at Marlborough-street to-day to a raid by Scotland Yard officers on the premises in Regent-street of the Mystical Society known as the M.M.M., when Mrs. Mary Davies, psychist, was remanded, charged with professing to tell fortunes.

When the police entered, Mrs. Davies was seated on a throne in the Temple, surrounded by about ten people, and certain rites were in progress.

Mr. Muskett, prosecuting, said that the woman was charged with pretending to tell fortunes, but it might be that the case would come under the second clause of the section—using a subtle craft, means or device by palmistry or otherwise to deceive and impose.

Detective Curry said that on the glass panel of the front door were the letters “M.M.M.”

Mr. Muskett said he thought that it meant Mysteria Mystical Maxima.

Mr. Deumann: I do not think that we can assume what it means. It may be Mary Muriel Muggins. (Laughter.)

Witness said that it was the Order of the Temple of the Orient. In the room were ten persons besides Davies, who was seated in a sort of throne chair, with Masonic regalia representing the Worshipful Master. The others wore the aprons of Master Masons. Accused when told of the warrant replied, “I have done no wrong. This is a Masonic lodge, and you have no right here.” Witness told her “Your founder is a man of evil reputation and a traitor to the country.” Accused said “I never tell fortunes. There has been a mistake.”

A remand was ordered, bail being allowed.