His primary education was received from tutors at home and at Bellevue Academy in Bedford County.

Returning to the University in the fall of 1881, he became a member of the law class taught by Professor John B.

In 1887, he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates and served there for seven terms, including two years (1899–1901) as Speaker.

While serving in that capacity, he was elected to fill a vacancy in the United States Congress, where he remained for thirteen years.

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