The senator spoke like the courteous gentleman that he is. His bearing
is simplicity and sincerity personified. He made answer to my questions
in a voice as delicate as a woman’s, giving no hint of the dynamite
behind it. I understand that it is his habit to economize his strength
and use no more on each occasion than is really required. Mr. Platt
is a serious man and yet he has a deep vein of humor. He likes a good
joke and tells one well. He has a hearty laugh. He has great patience,
but makes a hard fight when provoked. He is not tyrannical in victory
or vengeful in defeat. He has a knowledge of human nature, a keen
insight into men’s motives, and has skill in playing upon them. He is a
master in adjusting himself to events. He has a masterful will, but a
remarkable faculty also for disarming instead of exciting antagonism.
Altogether he seems well qualified to be a leader of men.