The development of his physical strength kept pace with that of
his intellect. When he was thirty-five, he was manager of a large
manufactory in Brooklyn. One day a herculean Irishman, who had long
been ambitious to have a trial of strength with “the boss,” asked
the latter how it was that the Irish were so much stronger than the
Americans.
“How much can you lift?” asked Mr. Maxim, quietly.
“Six hundred pounds,” replied Pat.
“And how much do you weigh?”
“Two hundred pounds.”
“Well,” said Maxim, “I will lift you and your load together,” and he
did it.