Emperor William recommended the promotion of a private in his
army for the strict observance of orders while acting as sentry
at Swinemunde, Germany. The Emperor, accompanied by several
officers, the entire party in civilian dress and wearing Panama
hats, approached the entrance to the west battery, where the
sentry prevented their further progress. His Majesty, much
amused, again vainly tried to pass by. He said to the sentry:
“You must let me pass. Don’t you know me? I am the Emperor.”
The sentry then looked more closely at the Emperor, not quite
reassured, but evidently recognized his Majesty’s features, as
he presented arms and allowed him to pass.
The distinction of the sentry lay in the fact that, under every
circumstance, he was faithful to his duty.
(841)