'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?'