His conversation was delightfully informal.

"What does your name mean ?" he inquired, and I had to say, "I do not know, it has changed so often," and asked, "What is the origin of yours ?" "Briant--brilliant, of course." He told the butler to close the door behind me lest I catch cold from a draught, quoting this couplet: When the wind strikes you through a hole, Go make your will and mind your soul; and informing me that this advice was found in every language, if not dialect, in the world.

He loved every inch of his country home, was interested in farming, flowers, the water-view and fish-pond, fond of long walks, and preferred the simple life.

In his rooms were many souvenirs of early travel.

His walls were covered with the finest engravings and paintings from the best American artists.