Page 30 - JM Book 9/2020

“I try to spend time every day, but Pa says I g-g-g-gotta work t-t-til he can hire somebody. But I’m l-l-l-learnin. It’s still hard though. Ma tells Pa that I g-g-gotta have time to read. Some days the only time I get to read is when I’m with you.”
Ike became interested in becoming a better reader when he met Jefferson. Until then, he did not care if he could read or not, despite his mother’s urging.
Jefferson met Ike when he arrived in Philadelphia in May. He had become fond of the eleven-year old, curly, blond-headed boy. Every night Ike delivered fresh biscuits to his room for breakfast the next morning. Jefferson had become Ike’s reading tutor and friend.
“Do you think you could spend a few minutes with me tonight, when you deliver my biscuits?” Jefferson recognized Ike’s potential. “I will put my work aside so you can read to me.”
“I can do t-t-that,” he excitedly said. “I’ll bring the b-b-book you gave me.”
Abby was taking orders when Jefferson and Ike finished their conversation.
They all ordered the special of the day: roast venison, cabbage braised with applewood-smoked bacon, green peas, baked asparagus with a cheese topping, Sally Lunn bread and custard for dessert.
Their supper conversation centered on life in Philadelphia. Franklin shared some of his proverbs from Poor Richard’s Almanack that he had published for twenty-six years. He told them two of his favorites: “A good example is the best sermon,” and “A father’s a treasure; a brother’s a comfort; a friend is both.”
Adams finally asked, “Thomas, are you satisfied with the progress you are making? ”
“I have been making good progress over the past week, since Benjamin gave me some much needed encouragement,” Jefferson said with satisfaction. “The beginning paragraphs are ready. I am now working on the list of grievances. Early next week I will have something for you to read.” He looked at his supper companions who seemed to be pleased with his report.
“That is what I wanted to hear you say,” replied Adams. “Benjamin told me about his conversation with you. We are both aware of what has been taking place with your family. And we are very sorry for your recent grief and the uncertainty
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