On a bitterly cold night in midwinter, Martin, an officer in the Roman army, was making his way back to his quarters. In spite of the cruel weather Martin was comfortable, wrapped in a magnificent red wool cloak, a gift from the men in his cohort. As Martin rode along he saw a poor man, dressed in rags, shivering violently, and begging passersby to give him something warm to wear. Everyone ignored the poor man — except Martin. Bringing his horse to a stop, he drew his sword, cut his fine cloak in half, and gave it to the half-frozen beggar.