His Person And Mode Of Argument


Mr. Butler, in his Historical Memoirs, describes O'Leary's person and

mode of argument thus:--



The appearance of Father O'Leary was simple. In his countenance there

was a mixture of goodness, solemnity, and drollery, which fixed every

eye that beheld it. No one was more generally loved or revered; no one

less assuming or more pleasing in his manner. Seeing his external

simplicity, persons with whom he was arguing were sometimes tempted to

treat him cavalierly; but then the solemnity with which he would mystify

his adversary, and ultimately lead him into the most distressing

absurdity was one of the most delightful scenes that conversation ever

exhibited.



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