"Perhaps I shall conclude to do so," was Nat's reply, as they separated.
The result was, that Nat decided to address a political gathering in his native town; and soon after he visited some neighboring places on the same errand. He soon acquired a reputation, as the "young orator," and committees waited upon him from towns near and remote. The adventure of one of these committees rehearsed, will show what expectations were awakened by his spreading fame.
A committee, in the town of ——, were instructed to wait upon him, and secure his services at a great political gathering there. Accordingly the committee put on their "Sunday suit," harnessed the horse into the best carriage, and started for Nat's residence. Meeting a man, as they entered the village.
"Where is Esquire —— (meaning Nat)'s office?"
The person addressed did not understand who was meant at first, and asked for the repetition of the inquiry, which was readily granted.
"Oh," answered he, "it is down yonder," at the same time pointing to a street a quarter of a mile distant or more, and scarcely able to control his risibles as he thought of the joke he was about to perpetrate.
"Very much obliged to you," responded the inquirer, at the same time whipping up his horse.
"This is nothing but a carpenter's shop," said one of them, as they reached the place. "We must have misunderstood him."
"It is very evident," said the other, "that we shall have to look further yet. But let us go in and inquire."
So they alighted, and went in.