The scaffold, being too weak, suddenly broke down, and the men upon it were precipitated to the ground--all except two, a young man and a middle-aged one, who hung on to a narrow ledge, which trembled under their weight, and was evidently on the point of giving way.

"Pierre," cried the elder of the two, "let go; I am the father of a family." "C'EST JUSTE!" said Pierre; and, instantly letting go his hold, he fell and was killed on the spot.

The father of the family was saved.
The brave man is magnanimous as well as gentle.

He does not take even an enemy at a disadvantage, nor strike a man when he is down and unable to defend himself.

Even in the midst of deadly strife such instances of generosity have not been uncommon.