While Fenneburg was living with Gessner, a poor traveler, having spent his money sooner than he expected, one day came to the door asking to borrow three dollars to help him on his journey. As he asked in the name of Jesus, with importunity, Fenneburg loaned him three dollars—all he had, even to his last penny.
Some time after, being in great straits, the circumstances of the three dollars was brought to his mind while he was on his knees, and with childlike simplicity and faith he said, "Lord, some time ago I loaned Thee three dollars, and Thou hast not given them back to me, though Thou seest how urgently I need them. I pray Thee return them to me without delay."
The same day, Gessner brought him a letter containing money, and as he gave it to him he said, "See, here is the money you advanced." The letter was found to contain two hundred dollars, sent him by some rich man at the solicitation of the poor traveler. Fenneburg, overcome with surprise, exclaimed, "O Lord, there is no saying a simple word to Thee without being put to shame!"