The excerpt from Brother of the Third Degree by Will L. Garver is a fictional novel that chronicles the protagonist's journey through a secret brotherhood. The protagonist, Alphonso Colono, is initiated into the brotherhood after being introduced to the group by his parents. The story follows his trials and tribulations as he progresses through different degrees, culminating in his ultimate ascension to the Third Degree. The text explores themes of self-discovery, the nature of the soul, and the search for enlightenment through the lens of a fictional brotherhood that teaches esoteric and spiritual knowledge.