He was a leader of
considerable influence among the outlaws, and, next to Rivers, was most
popular. Indeed, in certain respects, he was far more popular; for,
though perhaps not so adroit in his profession, nor so well fitted for
its command, he was possessed of many of those qualities which are apt
to be taking with "the fierce democratic!" He was a prince of hail
fellows--was thoroughly versed in low jest and scurvy anecdote--could
play at pushpins, and drink at every point in the game; and, strange to
say, though always drinking, was never drunk. Nor, though thus
accomplished, and thus prone to these accomplishments, did he ever
neglect those duties which he assumed to perform. No indulgence led him
away from his post, and, on the other hand, no post compelled or
constrained him into gravity. He was a careless, reckless blade,
indifferent alike, it would seem, to sun and storm--and making of life a
circle, that would not inaptly have illustrated the favorite text of
Sardanapalus.
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