Thus, though generally esteemed an able diplomatist, he had the cunning of the intriguant, and not the providence of a statesman.

If, however, pride made him arrogant in prosperity, it supported him in misfortune.

And in the earlier vicissitudes of a life which had partly been consumed in exile, he had developed many noble qualities of fortitude, endurance, and real greatness of soul; which showed that his failings were rather acquired by circumstance than derived from nature.

His numerous and highborn race were proud of their chief; and with justice; for he was the ablest and most honoured, not only of the direct branch of the Colonna, but also, perhaps, of all the more powerful barons.
Seated at the same table with Stephen Colonna was a man of noble presence, of about three or four and thirty years of age, in whom Adrian instantly recognised Walter de Montreal.

This celebrated knight was scarcely of the personal appearance which might have corresponded with the terror his name generally excited.