Formidable in appearance, memory, mind, and fearsome of temper, he attracted genuine devotion and knew how to charm people. Monstrously egotistical and surrounded by adoration, he nevertheless kept a reasonable grasp on the possible; forever taking false steps in politics, he emerged essentially unbeaten and superficially victorious in nearly everything he attempted to do. Though cold, self-centred, ungiving, and forever suspicious of the ways of the world, he could not descend to the second stereotype; despite a ruthlessness fed by self- righteousness, he never took the pleasure in killing required of the first. Perhaps this is why his callous and cruelty continue to plague the halls of his most beloved castles, even in death.
