not hesitate a moment; wrenching the hand-rail from a wooden bridge, he placed it across the road to stop the horses; and when they came up he sprang forward, seized the bridle, and with a strong hand forced them to come to a standstill. The master alighted, and taking out his purse, was going to reward the brave countryman. But the latter said: “Such services are not to be paid for with money. This is the return I make you for the old grindstone which you gave me.” This story shows us that we ought not to despise any one. We never know how we may need the services of the poorest and the humblest.
COVETOUSNESS
THE SUPPOSED POSSESSOR OF 150,000
Those who support their parents from selfish motives have no merit in God’s sight. A rich manufacturer had two daughters, both of whom he married very well, giving them a splendid trousseau and ample dowry. But as they knew that he still had considerable property they begged him to divide it between them, promising that they would each provide for him in turn. The father was so foolish as to yield to them and part with all his fortune. He was soon made to repent of his weak compliance with their request, for they kept him like a beggar. The unfortunate man told his story to an old friend, himself a man of large means, and asked his advice. This friend at once gave him a bank-note, telling him to order an elaborate dinner and invite his daughters and their husbands, besides a select party of friends.
