THREE HISTORIC FIGURES

New Zealand Tablet, 27 February 1919, Page 35

THREE HISTORIC FIGURES

Many .persons of whom the world knew little or nothing before this great war have gained an international prominence. Their names are spoken wherever men meet. Their valorous achievements are on the lips of all (says the Boston Pilot). Foremost amongst these are the three great figures of Europe—Mercier, Albert, and Foch, —and, singularly, all three are Catholics. None will forget the timely and vigorous words of the great Cardinal who defied' German threats and lovingly encouraged his people during the dark and cruel days of Germanic rule. In the face of death this great Churchman never flinched in the performance of his sacred duty to his people. At all times he was their servant and spokesman, and when little Belgium was writhing in her agonies under the dictatorship of an autocratic tyrant, it was Cardinal Mercier who came forth to tell the Belgians that although the -57 were held b" the su r *erior force of the enemy they were still freemen and unsubdued. The tale of Belgian suffering and fortitude is the narrative of a brave nation under the spiritual leadership of the great Mercier. Again the story of Albert is an inspiration to us all. . He saw his little kingdom reduced to ruins and his own palace occupied by those whom he had be-

lieved to be friendly. City after city fell into hostile hands. The hordes rushed through hamlet, village, and town, sweeping all before them. . Still this valiant man remained with his fast-diminishing army to the last, encouraging, inspiring and consoling them in their mighty work. It is little wonder that the world has expressed such admiration for the King of the Belgians, or that it should welcome the day when his triumphal return to his capital city should, be celebrated. The world loves a brave and efficient general, and in Albert it finds an opportunity to express its approval of loving service for country and humanity. The name of Foch is pronounced with reverence in every quarter of the earth. To him humanity turns with gratitude, and offers the homage of its affection and appreciation. Great general, soldier, and Catholic, he has attracted the sympathetic love of mankind. What more beautiful example can be found anywhere throughout the records of Catholic achievement Here was a man of comparative obscurity who won his'way to the heights of fame by the honestv of his personal conduct and the prowess of his intellectual attainments; yet he was a man of such simplicity of life, such perfect reliance on the power of prayer, and such resignation to the will of God that he may well be regarded as the most illustrious lay apostle of his time. The General himself furnishes us with a pen picture of his lofty character. "Faith in life eternal, in a God of goodness and compassion, has sustained me in the most trying hours," he said. "Prayer has enlightened my way." Herein lies the success of the Generalissimo of the Allied forces. When the history of the war is adequately written the names of three great Europeans will loom large on its pages. They are the names of Mercier, Albert, and Foch. The one gave the world his assurance that freemen are never conquered, and has given a glorious proof. The other has shown an indomitable spirit of courage and fortitude in the face of the ruin that overspread his kingdom and is a conspicuous example of undying affection for the people whom he cherished. The third is a simple French general who came into prominence only in the latter months of the war, but whose unflinching devotion, admirable patriotism and reverence for God stamp him as a model for the Catholic laymen of the nations.