I'd also add that at least one allegedly informed post quotes from (frankly) obsolete workings.

But thank you all for your perspectives. I didn't find any of the enlightenment I thought I might find on this forum where at least some posters seem well informed on many things. I did find (curiously, mostly in anti-masonry rants) enough about which to continue to be curious that I think I will swallow my impatience with the silly ritual for a while longer and see where I get to.

At least I might. At one recent night of instruction we were in an attic room where there had been a new window installed, and it had not yet been curtained. Some members were seriously suggesting that we should rehearse without the use of signs, presumably in case a starling with a good memory might fly past, and learn the "secrets". That is the sort of twaddle that greatly encourages me to quit.