He was not looked upon as a man of great ability, but no one doubted his desire to promote the best interests of the State.

Those who knew him said his strength lay more in a public than in a private direction.

He had few, if any, personal friends, and was considered dangerous when his passions were roused.
Some said he was cold and treacherous, giving all around him a feeling of aversion.

Even among the Secessionists, and those who should have been his ardent supporters, he was never mentioned with enthusiasm.
Within two weeks from the day I saw him, Governor Jackson, by his own act, was a fugitive from the State capital.

He never returned.