Frank, in a pause that came in a
little while. "That does not seem much to do."

"It is a great deal," said his aunt. "The army that encamps on the
battle-field after the battle, is the conquering army. To stand is
victory."

"Yes, I see," said Frank.

"It means victory to stand firm when an assault is made, but they who
would be `good soldiers of Jesus Christ' have more to do than that. His
banner must be carried to wave over all the nations. The world must be
subdued to Him. And when it is said, `Be strong,' it means be strong
for conquest as well as for defence."

And then, seeing that the boys were moved to eager listening, Mrs
Inglis put aside her anxious thoughts about her husband, and went on to
speak of the honour and glory of being permitted to fight under Him who
was promised as a "Leader and Commander to the people"--and in such a
cause--that the powers of darkness might be overthrown, the slaves of
sin set free, and His throne set up who is to "reign in righteousness."
Though the conflict might be fierce and long, how certain the victory!
how high the reward at last! Yes, and before the last. One had not to
wait till the last. How wonderful it was, she said, and how sweet to
believe, that not one in all the numberless host, who were "enduring
hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ," but was known to Him, and
beloved by Him; known even by name; watched over and cared for; guided
and strengthened; never forgotten, never overlooked. "Safe through
life, victorious in death, through Him that loved them, and gave Himself
for them," added the mother, and then she paused, partly because these
wonderful thoughts, and the eager eyes fastened on hers, made it not
easy to continue, and, partly, because she would fain put into as few
words as might be, her hopes and desires for the lad who was going so
soon to leave them.

"Francis," said she, softly, "would it not be something grand to be one
of such an army, fighting under such a leader?"

"Yes, Aunt Mary, if one only knew the way."

"One can always offer one's self as His soldier."

"Yes, if one is fit."

"But one can never make one's self fit. _He_ undertakes all that.
Offer yourself to be His. Give yourself to Him. He will appoint you
your place in the host, and make you strong to stand, patient to endure,
valiant to fight, and He will ensure the victory, and give you the
triumph at the end. Think of all this, Francis, dear boy! It is a