But the offer was refused; and Henry, who had himself undertaken the pacification of Gascony, was glad before the close of 1253 to recall its old ruler to do the work he had failed to do.
[Sidenote: Simon's temper] The Earl's character had now thoroughly developed.

He inherited the strict and severe piety of his father; he was assiduous in his attendance on religious services whether by night or day.

In his correspondence with Adam Marsh we see him finding patience under his Gascon troubles in a perusal of the Book of Job.

His life was pure and singularly temperate; he was noted for his scant indulgence in meat, drink, or sleep.

Socially he was cheerful and pleasant in talk; but his natural temper was quick and ardent, his sense of honour keen, his speech rapid and trenchant.