Before the battle there comes out the captain of the twenty thousand to the King with the ten thousand, who in His loftiness is not afraid to stoop to sue for peace from the weaker power.  My brother! the moment is precious; the white flag may never be waved before your eyes again.  Do not; do not refuse! or the next instant the clarion of the assault may sound, and where will you be then?

It is vain for thee to rush against the thick bosses of the Almighty buckler.  ‘We beseech, in Christ’s behalf, be ye reconciled with God.’