Each numbered paragraph is to be given to a pupil or member to read, or
to recite in a clear, distinct tone.
If the school or club is small, each person may take three or four
paragraphs, but should not be required to recite them in succession.
1. Thomas Jefferson was born April 13, 1743. His home was among the
mountains of Central Virginia on a farm, called Shadwell, 150 miles
northwest of Williamsburg.
2. His father's name was Peter Jefferson. His ancestors were Welsh
people. Like George Washington, he learned the art of surveying. He was
a superb specimen of a Virginia landholder, being a giant in frame, and
having the strength of three strong men.
3. One of his father's favorite maxims was, "Never ask another to do for
you what you can do for yourself."
4. His mother's name was Jane Randolph. She was a noble woman. Thomas
Jefferson derived his temper, his disposition, his sympathy with living
nature from his mother.
5. He was very fond of the violin, as were a great many of the Virginia
people. During twelve years of his life, he practiced on that instrument
three hours a day.
6. He early learned to love the Indians from his acquaintance with many
of their best chiefs. He held them in great regard during his life.
7. His father died in 1757, when Thomas was but fourteen years of age.
The son always spoke of his father with pride and veneration.
8. He entered William and Mary College in the spring of 1760, when he
was seventeen years old.