He preserved the _lucidus ordo_ in his argument, was never confused, never hurried, never involved in style.

A friend once said to him that the only criticism to be made of his speeches in the Senate was that he illustrated his point too copiously, throwing light upon it after it was made plain to the comprehension of all his hearers.

"That fault," said he, "I acquired in addressing juries, where I always tried to adapt my argument to the understanding of the dullest man of the twelve." It was a fault which Mr.Fessenden overcame, and in his later years his speeches may be taken as models for clearness of statement, accuracy of reasoning, felicity of expression, moderation of tone.
There have been members of the Senate who achieved greater distinction than Mr.Fessenden, but it may well be doubted whether in the qualities named he ever had a superior in that body.

His personal character was beyond reproach.

He maintained the highest standard of purity and honor.