When the Seven Years War was ended, the great General Zeithen became one of King Frederick of Prussia’s greatest favorites. He had shown great courage during the war, and the king was very proud to enjoy the company of such a man. So the general was often invited to dine at the royal table. He was always seated at the place of honor at the king’s right hand, unless there happened to be some prince of the royal blood present.

Now this general was a devout Catholic and faithful in the practice of his religious duties. One day King Frederick sent him an invitation to dine with him, as he had invited a number of guests that day. But Zeithen sent an answer, asking the King to have the goodness to excuse him from joining them this time.

It was one of the days on which Zeithen customarily received Holy Communion, and he wanted to keep himself in a state of recollection and devotion all that day.

Not very long afterwards, when Zeithen went to the Court, the king began to taunt him.

"Well, General," he said, "how did you get on the other day at that Communion of yours?"

At these words the king laughed, joined by all the courtiers around him, who thought it was an excellent joke.

But Zeithen raised his head with great dignity, and walked over to where the King was standing. He bowed to King Frederick, then spoke in a voice firm and solemn:

"Your Majesty knows well that I am a brave soldier, that I have fought courageously for you and for my country. And you know, too, that I am ready to do more still, yes, to die if need be in defense of our rights and liberties.
"But there is over us a Being more powerful than you or I, or all men together - our God and Savior, Who, to redeem the world, shed the last drop of His Blood.
"Now, I will not stand here and permit Him to be offended by words of irony and disrespect, even by you, O King. For in Him is centered my faith, my hope, all my consolation.
"Had it not been for the protection He granted to our soldiers, we never could have gained the victories we did gain. And if you do not honor Him, then you need not expect to see your country prosper. This, then, is what I have to say to you. I hope your Majesty will excuse me."

King Frederick, instead of being angry at this boldness, was greatly moved, and could not hold back a tear. He laid his hand upon the general’s shoulder, and said to him:

"Happy Zeithen, I respect your religion and its practices. Follow them faithfully as you are doing now, and I promise you, you will never again hear from my lips scornful words like what you heard today."