It happened in Germany, in the Middle Ages. The year was 1141. Wolf, the Duke of Bavaria, sat trapped inside his castle of Weinsberg. Outside his walls lay the army of Frederick, the Duke of Swabia and his brother, the emperor Konrad.

The siege had lasted long, and the time had come when Wolf knew he must surrender. Messengers rode back and forth, terms were proposed, conditions allowed, arrangements completed. Sadly, Wolf and his officers prepared to give themselves to their bitter enemy.

But the wives of Weinsberg were not ready to lose all. They sent a message to Konrad, asking the emperor to promise safe conduct for all the women in the castle. They also asked if they might come out with as many of their valuables as they could carry in their arms as they left.

The request was freely granted, and soon the castle gates opened. Out came the ladies - but in startling fashion. They carried not gold or jewels. Instead, each one was bending under the weight of her husband, whom she hoped to save from the vengeance of the victorious host.

Konrad, who was really a generous and merciful man, was said to have been brought to tears by the extraordinary performance. He hastened to assure the women of their husbands' perfect safety and freedom. Then he invited them all to a banquet and made peace with the Duke of Bavaria on terms much more favourable than expected.

The castle was later known as the Hill of Weibertreue, or woman's fidelity.
- Source: Chicken Soup for the Couple's Soul.

Touching story isn't it?