Societies have been using messengers since the beginning of time. One of the most famous messengers was the Greek god Hermes. The Roman equivalent of Hermes was named Mercury. Ancient messengers worked on the relay system. This system consisted of runners or mounted couriers stationed at intervals along major roads. Messages relayed along this system traveled swiftly, sometimes more than 100 kilometers a day. This system eventually developed into an ancient form of the post office during Caesar Augustus' reign as Roman emperor around 27 BC. The most famous messenger in more recent history is probably Paul Revere. Revere carried the news to Lexington of the approach of the British troops. He warned patriot leaders of their imminent danger, and called the citizens of the country to arms. His warning call, "The British are coming, the British are coming," is one of the most famous quotations in American history. Revere influenced the still-forming American community by giving the Americans time to gear up and to be ready for the British.