An Act of Kindness
 

      President Abraham Lincoln often visited hospitals to
      talk with wounded soldiers during the Civil War. Once,
      doctors pointed out a young soldier who was near death and
      Lincoln went over to his bedside.

      "Is there anything I can do for you?" asked the
      President.

      The soldier obviously didn't recognize Lincoln, and
      with some effort he was able to whisper, "Would you please
      write a letter to my mother?"

      A pen and paper were provided and the President
      carefully began writing down what the young man was able to
      say:

      "My dearest mother, I was badly hurt while doing my
      duty. I'm afraid I'm not going to recover. Don't grieve too
      much for me, please. Kiss Mary and John for me. May God
      bless you and father."

      The soldier was too weak to continue, so Lincoln signed
      the letter for him and added, "Written for your son by
      Abraham Lincoln."

      The young man asked to see the note and was astonished
      when he discovered who had written it. "Are you really the
      President?" he asked.

      "Yes I am," Lincoln replied quietly. Then he asked if
      there was anything else he could do.

      "Would you please hold my hand?" the soldier asked. "It
      will help to see me through to the end."

      In the hushed room, the tall gaunt President took the
      boy's hand in his and spoke warm words of encouragement
      until death came.

                      By The Best of Bits & Pieces