File contributed by Alice Ogles



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Richland Parish Beacon News,  Aug. 2, 1873

      Elder N. H. Bray
   Some time ago we published an article in which it was stated that Elder N. 
H. Bray had been brutally murdered, at his residence in Union Parish.  The 
many friends of this aged and highly respected christian gentleman will be 
glad to learn that he is still alive.  On hearing of his own death and burial 
Elder Bray writes to a friend stating that
"he does not believe a word of it; and that he can prove the report false!"  
Besides attending to other duties, he preaches every Sabbath.  He is now 
about 73 years of age and enjoying very good health. 
    In the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana, now on 
our table, we find the following beautiful farewell address delivered by this 
venerable gentleman at the last Annual Grand communication, held in the city 
of New Orleans, during the month of February last.

Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethern:
    Before the close of the session of the Grand Lodge, I desire to occupy a 
few moments of your time.  For a long number of years it has been one of the 
principal pleasusres of my live to participate in the work and 
responsibilities resting upon the constituents of this Grand Body.  It does 
not become me to say that here and elsewhere I have tried to do my duty to 
the Masons of Louisiana.  This is probably the last occasion when I can make 
on of this Grand Lodge: the last time when I can attempt to assist you in 
deliberation for the good of our beloved fraternity. Years bear heavily upon 
my feable frame.  My home is hundreds of miles hence.  I am very far from 
rich.  Increasing infirmities warn me that my allotted time for labor is 
nearly closed.  I have passed by two years the allotted span of three score 
years and ten.  My heart is in the work of Masonry: you know that, and 
knowing it you can thoroughly understand how deeply it grieves me to bid you 
to-night, adeau.  My loving regard and warmest prayers will remain with you.
   During my membership of this Grand Body I have been often deeply 
interested in matters before it, and have engaged earnestly in discussions 
concerning them.  My habit has been to think carefully and then to speak 
strongly; but if in all the years during which I have been a member of the 
Grand Lodge, I have in any way given offence by language or vote to any 
brother, I desire to ask from him a full absolution.
   Brethern we may not again meet here. God willing we shall be united again 
in "That Temple not made with hands."

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