I was somewhat above the middle stature.

Without being particularly athletic in appearance, or large in my dimensions, I was uncommonly vigorous and active.

My joints were supple, and I was formed to excel in youthful sports.

The habits of my mind, however, were to a certain degree at war with the dictates of boyish vanity.

I had considerable aversion to the boisterous gaiety of the village gallants, and contrived to satisfy my love of praise with an unfrequent apparition at their amusements.