Emphasis Preaching Journal

When Russell Conwell left Yale to fight in the Civil War, a youthful admirer, Johnny Ring, went along as personal orderly. Conwell had made fun of Johnny's habit of Bible reading and praying each night. After a hasty surprise attack by the confederates, Johnny risked his life to save a sword that had been a treasured gift to Russell. The bridge was in flames when he headed back and, from the severe burns, Johnny died within a week. As a result of his bravery and life-endangering example, Russell determined to live two lives, one for Johnny and one for himself.