A Reproof to Sleepers

It is related of John Lassenius, the chaplain to the Danish Court, who died at Copenhagen in 1692, that having for a long time perceived to his vexation, that during his sermon, the greatest part of his congregation fell asleep, he suddenly stopped, pulled a shuttlecock from his pocket, and began to play with it in the pulpit. A circumstance so extraordinary, naturally attracted the attention of that part of the congregation who were still awake. They jogged those who were sleeping, and in a short time every body was lively, and looking to the pulpit with the greatest astonishment. This was just what Lassenius wished; for he immediately began a most severe castigatory discourse, saying, "When I announce to you sacred and important truths, you are not ashamed to go to sleep; but when I play the fool, you are all eye and all ear."

Another curious circumstance is recorded of thepulpit displays of Lassenius. He used always to stop in the middle of his sermon, to take a glass of wine, or some other cordial, in the presence of the congregation! An inviting example to preachers of long sermons.