He Wore It as Long as He Could
When William Penn became a Friend, he did not immediately leave off his gay apparel, as other Friends did. He even wore a sword, as was customary among men of rank and fashion.
One day, being with George Fox the great leader of the Friends, he asked his advice about wearing the sword, saying that it had once been the means of saving his life without injuring his antagonist, and that moreover Christ has said, “He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one.”
“I advise thee,” answered George Fox quietly, “to wear it as long as thou canst.”
Shortly after this, they met again. William Penn had no sword.
“William,” said George Fox, “where is thy sword?”
“Oh!” replied William Penn, “I have taken thy advice. I wore it as long as I could!”
Samuel M. Janney (Retold)