"'Yes,' was the simple reply.
"'Why, stranger, what the deuce might be your name?'
"'My name is Thomas Jefferson.'
"Even the jockey's brass turned pale—when, putting spurs to his nag, he exclaimed—
"'And my name is Richard Jones, and I'm ok!'
"Saying which, he dashed up the avenue at double quick time, while the President looked after him with a smile, and then rode into the gate."
JEFFERSON AND PATRICK HENRY.
Patrick Henry was an early friend and companion of Jefferson. He was a jovial young fellow noted for mimicry, practical jokes, fiddling and dancing. Jefferson's holidays were sometimes spent with Henry, and the two together would go off on hunting excursions of which each was passionately fond. Both were swift of foot and sound of wind.
Deer, turkey, foxes and other game were eagerly pursued. Jefferson looked upon Patrick Henry as the moving spirit of all the fun of the younger circle, and had not the faintest idea of the wonderful talents that lay latent in his companion's mind.