When Jael served her yellow-hued dainty to Sisera in that fine
dish, she set an example that is worthy of being followed in
more ways than in that hospitable one. Milton in his noble
thoughts set in his lofty style has served his “butter in a
lordly dish.” A kindness or a benefaction dealt in a courteous
spirit and in fine chivalry is equally “butter in a lordly
dish.” Above all, a life lived in the exercise of a character
that is sterling and pure gold--serving viands of soul in
divinest thoughts and sublimest virtues and inspirations that
gods might envy, is “butter in a lordly dish.” The substance of
a deed is heightened in merit by its service when the mettle of
the dish matches the quality of the meat.
(2921)