He was then at the height of his successful career.

He was in the third term of his Speakership, and had acquitted himself in that exacting place with ability and credit.

Genial and cordial, with unfailing tact and aptitude, skilful in cultivating friendships and never provoking enmities, he had in a rare degree the elements that insure popularity.

The absence of the more rugged and combative qualities which diminished his force in the stormy struggles of the House, served now to bring him fewer antagonisms as a candidate.
Beside the names of Wade, Fenton, and Colfax, two or three others were presented, though not so earnestly urged or so strongly supported.
Senator Wilson of Massachusetts had warm friends and was fourth in the rank of candidates.

Pennsylvania presented Governor Curtin, but with a divided and disorganized force which crippled at the outset the effort in his behalf.