He did not excel in studies or greatly, in athletics.
But in his own field, that of writing, he was so much better than the rest of us that no one of his fellow-editors of the Epitome or Burr needed to be considered in comparison with him.

No less, in spite of his voluntary nonmembership in the fraternities of his day, was he a leader in the social activities of the University.

The 'Arcadian Club' devoted in its beginnings to the 'pipes, books, beer and gingeralia' of Davis's song about it and the 'Mustard and Cheese' were his creations.
In all his personal relationships he was the most amusing and stimulating of companions.

With garb and ways of unique picturesqueness, rarer even in college communities a generation ago than at present, it was inevitable that he sometimes got himself laughed at as well as with.

But what did it all matter, even then?
To-day it adds a glow of color to what would be in any case a vivid, deeply valued memory.
"It is hard to foresee in youth what will come most sharply and permanently in the long run.