Daniel Webster
Lawyer and statesman Daniel Webster was a powerful orator who gave early evidence of his quick mind and way with words. One day Webster’s father, who was to be absent from home, left Daniel and his brother Ezekiel specific work instructions. But on his return he found the task still undone, and questioned his sons about their idleness.
“What have you been doing, Ezekiel?” he asked.
“Nothing, sir.”
“Well, Daniel, what have you been doing?”
“Helping Zeke, sir.”