Washington was, therefore, often brought into contact with the servant of Col. Pickering, the departed Primus. An opportunity was afforded to the Negro to note him, under circumstances very different from those in which he is usually brought before the public and which possess, therefore, a striking charm. I remember one of these anecdotes from the mouth of Primus. One of them is very slight, indeed, yet so peculiar as to be replete with interest. The authenticity of both may be fully relied upon.
Washington once came to Col. Pickering's quarters and found him absent.
"It is no matter," said he to Primus, "I am greatly in need of exercise. You must help me to get some before your master returns."
Under Washington's directions the Negro busied himself in some simple preparations. A stake was driven into the ground about breast high, a rope tied to it, and then Primus was desired to stand at some distance and hold it horizontally extended. The boys, the country over, are familiar with this plan of getting sport. With true boyish zest, Washington ran forward and backward for some time, jumping over the rope as he came and went, until he expressed himself satisfied with the "exercise."
Repeatedly afterward, when a favorable opportunity offered he would say—"Come, Primus, I am in need of exercise," whereat the Negro would drive down the stake and Washington would jump over the rope until he had exerted himself to his content.
On the second occasion, the great General was engaged in earnest consultation with Col. Pickering in his tent until after the night had fairly set in. Headquarters were at a considerable distance and Washington signified his preference to staying with the Colonel over night, provided he had a spare blanket and straw.
"Oh yes," said Primus, who was appealed to, "plenty of straw and blankets—plenty."
Upon assurance, Washington continued his conference with the Colonel until it was time to retire to rest. Two humble beds were spread side by side, in the tent, and the officers laid themselves down, while Primus seemed to be busy with duties that required his attention before he himself could sleep. He worked, or appeared to work, until the breathing of the prostrate gentlemen satisfied him that they were sleeping; and then, seating himself on a box or stool, he leaned his head on his hands to obtain such repose as so inconvenient a position would allow. In the middle of the night Washington awoke. He looked about and descried the Negro as he sat. He gazed at him a while and then spoke.
"Primus!" said he calling, "Primus!"