He was of middle height and slender build, with a quiet, serious face and a singularly winning manner; and withal, he was of literally dauntless courage, of hopeful, eager temper, and remarkably fertile in shifts and expedients.

He was particularly fond of night attacks, surprises, and swift, sudden movements generally, and was unwearied in drilling and disciplining his men.

Not only was he an able leader, but he was also a finished horseman, and the best marksman with both pistol and rifle in the British army.

Being of quick, inventive mind, he constructed a breech-loading rifle, which he used in battle with deadly effect.

This invention had been one of the chief causes of his being brought into prominence in the war against America, for the British officers especially dreaded the American sharpshooters.