Mendelsson it is said, once visited the cathedral at Fridbourg, and having
heard the great organ, went into the organ loft and asked to be allowed to
play it. The old organist, in jealousy for his instrument, at first refused,
but was afterward prevailed on to allow the great German composer to try the
colossal “thunder” of the cathedral. And after standing by in an ecstasy of
delight and amazement for a few moments, he suddenly laid his hands on the
shoulders of the inspired musician and exclaimed: “Who are you? What is your
name?” “Mendelsson,” replied the player. “And can it be! that I had so
nearly refused to let Mendelsson touch this organ!” How little the Lord’s
people know what they are doing when they refuse to let Christ have full
possession of their entire life and evoke the full melody and harmony of which
it is capable! (copied)
