THE ROCK

  One of the “Jubilee Singers,” a student of Fisk University , was on board a streamer that took fire.  He had the presence of mind to fix life-preservers on himself and his wife.  But in the agony of despair, when all on board were trying to save themselves, someone took from his wife her life-preserver, so that she found herself helpless amid waters.  But she clung to her husband, placing her hands firmly on his shoulders as he swam on.  After a little while her strength was exhausted.  “I can hold on no longer,” was her cry.  “Try a little longer,” was her husband’s agonizing entreaty; and then he added, “Let us sing ‘Rock of Ages.’”

  Immediately they both began faintly to sing; and their strains fell upon the ears of many around them, while they were thus seeking to comfort each other.  One after another of the nearly exhausted swimmers was noticed raising his head above the waves and joining in the prayer : “Rock of Ages, cleft for me.  Let me hide myself in Thee.”

  Strength seemed to come with the song and they were able to hold out a little longer, still faintly singing.  A boat was seen approaching, and they did get strength enough to keep themselves afloat till the crew lifted them on board.   And thus Toplady’s hymn helped to save more than one from death by the sea, as it has often helped to save souls ready to perish.