Anecdotes of the great

The great leader of the Confederate Army, Robert Lee, was journeying in a train together with some of his officers and soldiers. At one station a poor woman entered their compartment. There was no empty seat and no one cared to offer his seat to the woman. At last she came to where Lee was sitting. Rising gallantly, Lee offered his place. At once every one in the compartment stood and offered his seat to the general. “No, gentlemen,” said Lee, “if you cannot give your seats to a poor woman, you cannot give them to me.”

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Boswell, the devoted biographer of Dr Johnson, was once insulted by an associate. He at once went and complained to Johnson. And the great Doctor Johnson replied, “Consider, sir, how insignificant this will appear twelve months hence.”

Boswell took the advice in good part and was able to say later: “Were this consideration applied to most of the things in life, by which our quiet is too often disturbed, it would prevent many painful sensations. I have tried it frequently and with good effect.”

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The occasion was the 80th birthday of Winston Churchill. During the celebration a young photographer took Churchill’s photo and said, “Sir, I hope to be present and take your photo at your 100th birthday celebration.” “If you take good care of your health, I feel, you will certainly have that fortune,” replied Churchill.