One cold winter day, as Martin was riding through a city on his magnificent horse, he saw a beggar on the side of the road. The beggar had on only light clothes, so Martin took off his warm, thick military cloak and cut it in half, giving half to the beggar. That night he saw a vision of Christ wearing the half cloak. Christ thanked Martin for his great generosity to the poor, because in giving to them, Martin was giving to Christ also.
Martin was once robbed while traveling through a mountainous area. He managed to convert one of the thieves.
Martin became a hermit, but he was so loved and respected that the people of Tours made him their bishop.