Condemned Prisoner

Years ago in the state of Ohio, a young man was found guilty of a terrible crime and was sentenced to death. Appeals to change his sentence to life imprisonment failed. Finally, his parents came and begged the governor at least go and see the boy.

He agreed and went without announcement. The young man saw him approaching his cell and said to himself, “Here comes some preacher to bother me—I won’t see him.” As the governor stepped up to the bars, he said, “Good morning, James.” But the young fellow just turned his back and would not answer.

“Your friends have been talking to me about you, and I have come to see you,” said the governor. “I don’t care to talk today.” “If you knew the importance of my message, I’m sure you would give me an audience.” “I don’t care to talk.

You’ll do me a favor and go away.” “Very sorry; good-day, sir.” Soon afterward, the guard came by and asked, “Well Jim, how did you and the governor come out?” “The governor!

You don’t mean to tell me that little man who looked like a preacher was Governor Nash!” “Yes, he came to see if he could do anything for you.” His opportunity was gone, and a few days later, they put the black cap over his face, he cried out, “Oh God, what a fool I was! He wanted to help me, and I wouldn’t let him.”