I know that some of our wisest men
think that the time is coming when nations will be ashamed to settle
questions in that way."
"How do you propose to show your wonderful patriotism. if you won't
fight?" demanded Ned.
Jack flushed a little, but he answered steadily:
"I propose to make of myself as good a citizen as I can. I propose to
keep my temper, and to remember that others beside myself have rights. I
propose to be honest and fair. If I do all my work as well as I can, I
hope that some day my life will be of service to my country."
Ned and Dick walked off with a disagreeable laugh, but George slipped
his arm through his friend's. "If I didn't know better, I should say
that you were a coward, Jack," he said. "I wish you had more of the hero
in you."
"Even a hero doesn't like to be laughed at," said Jack. "I know one
thing, George: it takes more courage to be called a coward, and to stand
up for what you think is right when others are laughing at you, than it
does to fight."
"I believe you are right," said George; "I can see that a man may be as
much of a hero and patriot in one place as another, if he is only true
to himself."
He serves his country best
Who lives pure life, and doeth righteous deed,
And walks straight paths, however others stray;
And leaves his sons, as uttermost bequest,
A stainless record which all men may read.
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