Class of 1904
BILL GRAY
In September of 1900, almost with the start of this century Bill came to Hanover with the country wide supply of raw material which crystallized into the class of 1904. Slightly older than the class average, and in many ways more mature, he then had the characteristic gait, slightly stooped, giving the impression of moderation in thought and action which scarcely changed during his Hanover years. He was a positive influence in the life of Alpha Delt and Sphinx as an undergraduate, and contributed to the athletic reputation of the College as Manager of the football team that so successfully christened the Harvard Stadium in the fall of 1903, with still further successes as Graduate Manager. In our senior year and immediately thereafter he proved a stabilizing influence in the management of the Commons, then a new venture for the College. From graduation on, his life was one of constantly increasing responsibility to the College and the community, yet there was always time for a cordial welcome, and reuning periods with any classmate who found himself in Hanover. During all the years that have passed, the Gray fireside has been a beacon light guiding class footsteps homeward. Somehow I have a feeling that nothing ever superseded Bill's loyalty and love for this class of ours. He considered it his privilege, and apparently a much enjoyed one, despite his ever increasing Commencement duties, to make all local plans for our eight reunions, and contributed greatly to the success of our two off-year parties in '35 and '36 when we were domiciled in the new Tuck School group.
During the last fifteen years our household has been peculiarly favored by frequent visits from Bill, during his vacation periods, and the consequent opportunity for a closer knowledge of College affairs, news of our contemporaries and more intimate friendship.
Accompanied by A 1 'l5 Priddy, L. B. 'OO Richardson, Doc 'O2 Griggs and sometimes only by his altogether too constant shadow, Mr. Gout, he thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity for relaxation, hours in the woods, and golf. New and congenial contacts were found here and lasting friendships were made with several attractive persons whose pleasing characteristics had not been spoiled by their years at Yale. One in particular, George W. Wheeler, long time Chief Justice of Connecticut's highest court, until his death a few years ago, looked forward pleasantly to his annual rendezvous with Bill. Theirs was a spontaneous and happy friendship of kindred characters loved and respected by all their friends. Almost always Ned Willis came up while Bill was here and they were frequently joined by Jack or Robbie. Reminiscing with Robbie recently he mentioned a week of golf enjoyed here some years ago with Bill and Ned, particularly emphasizing the similarity of characters which their many common characteristics had developed.
Rarely has it been the privilege of a class secretary of any college to reminisce of a classmate whose life has been so completely devoted to the college of his choice and the community surrounding it. Other columns of this number contain the intimate appraisal of Bill's life work wholly devoted to Dartmouth and its constantly widening problems. Here we are concerned with the Background of the Picture of Accomplishment; cheerful and lovable com- radeship—courageous op timism—studious concern for others—loyalty—sincerity—devotion to duty—sound and enduring friendships, all combined in a rare mosaic ever increasing in breadth of pattern and richness of color leaving us the warm remembrance of a rare personality, great in its becoming and compelling modesty.
Robbie, Beck, Sid, Edge, Tinker and myself were privileged to represent the class at the services in Hanover and to spend a short time with Mrs. Gray. We shall long remember the simple churchyard scene, enveloped in the hush of softly falling snow as we left our Comrade but a stone's throw from the Tuck School group, where his life work had been so well accomplished.
Secretary, Waterville Inn, Waterville Valley, N. H.
