In council, the calm wisdom which he possessed in a measure rarely found among men of parts so quick and of opinions so decided as his, acquired for him the authority of an oracle.

The superiority of his powers appeared not less clearly in private circles.

The charm of his conversation was heightened by the frankness with which he poured out his thoughts.

[477] His good temper and his good breeding never failed.

His gesture, his look, his tones were expressive of benevolence.