‘I don’t know.’

’God always wants each of us to present ourselves to Him, if we want to enlist in His army.  Have you done that?  There must come a time in our lives when we yield ourselves wholly and unreservedly to the one who is our rightful owner.  Why, my boy, do you believe that Jesus died upon the cross to save you?  Did He bear your sins for you there?’

‘Yes,’ said Teddy, fixing his blue eyes earnestly on the rector, ’I really believe He did, for mother has often explained it to me.’

’Then how dare you stand aloof from His army?  How is it that you have never enlisted?  Are you marching along in the enemy’s ranks?’

Teddy’s small hands were clenched, and his eyes lit up with a great resolve.

‘I’ll enlist at once, sir.  I’ll be one of God’s soldiers now.’

‘How are you going to do it?’

‘I don’t know.  Tell me, please.’

There was silence.  Mr. Upton met the child’s earnest, upward gaze with awe, as he realised how much hung on his words.  He had a firm belief in children being able to lead a consistent Christian life.  He knew the Master would accept a child’s heart, and guide and keep the frail and helpless steps on the way heavenward.  And with a swift prayer for guidance he spoke.

’You must tell God about it yourself, and don’t be in a hurry.  Kneel down quietly by yourself somewhere, and first of all ask that the Holy Spirit may guide you, that your sins may be blotted out, and your name written in the Book of Life, for the sake of Jesus who died for you.  Then tell God you want Him to enlist you, and give yourself right up to Him for now and for all eternity.’

Mr. Upton spoke slowly and emphatically; he knew he often preached above the heads of his little hearers, and he strove to speak in simple language now.

Teddy remained very silent; then he said, ’And if I enlist, shall I have to be God’s soldier for ever and ever, till I’m an old man of a hundred, with white hair and no teeth?’

‘Would you rather be one of the devil’s soldiers?’

‘No.’

’You are quite right to think it over.  I would rather you did not decide too hastily.  Go home and think it out.  And come and tell me when you have decided.’

The boy’s white brow was crumpled with anxious creases.

’I should like to be one of God’s soldiers, but who shall I have to fight?  Any real enemies, or only make believe?’

’I will tell you about your enemies after you have enlisted.  I can show you one very real one that is your worst enemy.’

‘Can you?  A real live one?’

‘A real live one.’

Teddy smiled contentedly.

‘Now,’ added Mr. Upton, ’I am going to send you home.  If you enlist, the first person you will have to hold up your banner to is that little girl whom you said you hated.  Before you go I want to pray for you.  Kneel down with me.’