He was the companion of bullies and boors.

He shared their work and their sports, but he never stooped to their vulgarity.

He very seldom drank with them, and they never heard him speak an oath.

He could throw the stoutest in a wrestling match, and was ready, when brought to it, to whip any insolent braggart who made cruel use of his strength.

He never flinched from hardship or danger, yet his heart was as soft and tender as a woman's.