He had that sort of industry and that sort of exactness which would have made him a respectable antiquary or King at Arms.

His taste led him to plod among old records; and in that age it was only by plodding among old records that any man could obtain an accurate and extensive knowledge of the law of Parliament.

Having few rivals in this laborious and unattractive pursuit, he soon began to be regarded as an oracle on questions of form and privilege.

His moral character added not a little to his influence.
He had indeed great vices; but they were not of a scandalous kind.
He was not to be corrupted by money.

His private life was regular.