TRUE TO HIS MASTER

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Feb 26, 1902

TRUE TO HIS MASTER.

IT is recorded that Frederick the Great of Prussia was once ridiculing Christ and Christianity in the presence of a gathering of his nobles and generals, who were convulsed with laughter at his coarse and impious witticisms. There was one brave general, however, who sat gloomily silent while the laugh went around. This was Joachim Von Zietan, one of the ablest and bravest of them all. Unable longer to endure it, he "dares" something for His Master, whom he loves even more than he loves his king. See him! With the utmost gravity, he rises from his seat, shakes his gray head, and addressing the king, said in solemn tone,—

"Your Majesty knows well that in war I have never feared any danger, and everywhere I have boldly risked my life for you and my country; but there is One above us who is greater than you and I—greater than all men; He is the Saviour and Redeemer, who has died also for your Majesty, and has dearly bought us all with His own blood. This Holy One I can never allow to be mocked or insulted, for on Him repose my faith, my comfort, and my hope in life and death. In undermining the power of this faith, you undermine at the same time the welfare of your State. I salute your Majesty."

The brave old general sat down. Frederick looked at him in amazement and unconcealed admiration, and then and there apologized in the presence of those whom he had entertained with his vulgar jests.—Anon.