Governor Giles, of Virginia, once addressed a note to Patrick Henry, demanding satisfaction:
"Sir, I understand that you have called me a 'bob-tailed' politician. "I wish to know if it be true; and if true, you meaning.
"William. B. Giles."
To which Mr. Henry replied:
"Sir, I do not recollect having called you a 'bob-tailed' politician at any time, but think it probable I have. "Not recollecting the time or occasion, I can't say what I did mean, but if you will tell me what you think I meant, I will say whether you are correct or not.
"Very respectfully, Patrick Henry."
---------------A Final Thought ...
"When people do not respect us we are sharply offended; yet deep down in his private heart no man much respects himself."
- Mark Twain (1835–1910), U.S. author. Following the Equator, ch. 29, “Pudd’nhead Wilson’s New Calendar” (1897)