Why do they thus wear them?

• A. To prevent soiling their clothes and to teach not tamper with untempered mortar.
• B. To signify higher rank.
• C. To show they are new.
• D. To keep them dry.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the apron serves both a practical and a symbolic purpose for an Entered Apprentice. It protects the mason’s clothes from dirt and mortar as they perform duties, especially during construction tasks. At the same time, the apron acts as a teaching symbol: it reminds the apprentice not to tamper with untempered mortar, meaning one should not interfere with materials or processes that aren’t properly prepared. This links the physical discipline of keeping clothing clean with the moral discipline of following proper procedures and not cutting corners. The other options don’t fit because the apron isn’t about signaling rank, showing new status, or keeping dry; its purpose combines protection with a reminder about careful, proper work.