TAKE ’EM, JACK | AdventAI

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Jun 5, 1901

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 27, No. 23.

TAKE ’EM, JACK.

The following incident occurred on one of our busy streets during the heated term, and is told by the Temple Magazine as an illustration of the fact that princely generosity is not confined to those who give by the millions.

“It was a fatiguingly hot day, and only those whose business was urgent were found upon the scorching streets. Presently a little newsboy appeared in sight. He was not alert and bustling as is the ideal newsboy; on the contrary, he moved along as if each step he took was painful to him. Meeting an acquaintance, he stopped to exchange greetings under the friendly shade of an awning.

“‘What’s the matter, Jack? You get along ’bout as fast as a snail.’

“‘So would you, I guess, Jim Ragan, if your feet were full of blisters walking on the hot sidewalk. Every time I put my foot down it’s like to set me a-cryin,’ the other answered.

“Jim looked down at the bare feet in question, and glanced at his own, encased in a pair of shoes that had certainly seen duty, but which still afforded protection from the heat of the dazzling pavements. Quick as a flash he dropped down on a step, and the next moment was holding out his shoes to Jack.

“‘Here, you can wear them till to-morrow. My feet ain’t blistered. Take ’em, Jack, it’s all right.’ And away he went, crying, ‘3 o’clock edition of the Post!’ at the top of his voice, seemingly unconscious that he had performed a praiseworthy deed.”

—Exchange.