Equable and even cheery, he does not take a particularly joyous view of human existence.

I have heard him speak of the emptiness and futilities of human existence in tones, not of gloom, for he is too much of a philosopher to indulge in regrets, but with a hearty sincerity that would do credit to the Trappist monk who found everything vanity of vanities in a sinful world.

Despising honours and dignities, he positively loathes outward show; he is a Radical by instinct and nature.

Though one of the wealthiest men in the House of Commons, nobody has over known him guilty of one act of ostentation.
Probably he loves power.

I have not the smallest doubt that he would enjoy very well being a Cabinet Minister.