Strange Benevolence by O. F. Laughbaum

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Mountain View, California · Dec 18, 1907

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 33, No. 51.

Strange Benevolence.

By O. F. Laughbaum

Can You Guess?

ONE day, riding with a friend in one of our leading cities, I noticed a stately and palatial residence to which I called my friend's attention. He said, "That beautiful mansion was built for its proprietor by benevolent gentlemen of this city and community." And by further conversation I learned that some men gave their own clothing, others gave their pianos and organs, and some donated their carpets, pictures, and furniture. Others sacrificed nearly all the food of pantry and cellar, and most of the clothing of the wardrobe belonging to the wife and children. Some gave their sons to dissipation, while their daughters became outcasts. The majority of these benevolent gentlemen deposited their good name, their reputation, character and all—mind, body, and soul—to erect this stately mansion for the man who occupies it and owns it. They also have given him the finest suit of broadcloth and a brilliant diamond pin, while they have dressed his wife and children in silks and satins. They also keep the pantry, cellar, and wardrobe filled to overflowing. Strange benevolence! Who are these benevolent ones, and who is the man living in the stately mansion, surrounded by every luxury? Can you guess?—O. F. Laughbaum.