But he had a wonderful aptness for understanding legal principles and the weight and effect of evidence.

His neighbors when in trouble instinctively sought him as a shield.

He was an unerring counsellor in the conduct of complicated affairs.
His aid was extensively sought in the preparation of causes, in settling estates, and as guardian and trustee.

He was concerned in hundreds of cases.

It would be hard to name one in which he had anything to do that did not terminate to the advantage of the party who employed him.