Great Americans of History
THOMAS JEFFERSON - A CHARACTER SKETCH
A MAN OF THE PEOPLE.
Jefferson mingled a great deal with the common people, especially with
mechanics.
Often, when President, he would walk down to the Navy Yard early on a
summer's morning, and sitting down upon an anchor or spar, would enter into
conversation with the surprised and delighted shipwrights. He asked many
questions of these artisans, who would take the utmost pains to satisfy his
enquiries.
His political opponents believed unjustly that he did this simply for effect.
They would say,
"There, see the demagogue!"
"There's long Tom, sinking the dignity of his station to get votes and court
the mob."
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