Anyone can see that from the proverbial energy that is developed in
those of inferior birth, there was here one of Nature's commanding
spirits, who would bring order out of chaos.
Moreover, the fact of his short service in a distant part of the fur
country, left him free from prejudice, gave him an open mind, and
permitted him to serve as a young man when he was yet plastic and
adaptable--all this was in his favor.
Governor Simpson was short of stature, but possessed of great energy and
endurance. He was keen in mind and observing in his faculties. Active
and determined, he might at times seem a martinet and a tyrant, but he
had at the same time an easy and pleasant manner that enabled him to
attract to himself his servants and subordinates, but especially the
savages with whom he had constantly to have dealings. His ardent
Highland nature led him to rejoice in the picturesque and the showy, and
he was fond of music and of society. Given to change, Simpson became a
great traveller and made a voyage around the world before the days of
steam or railway.
One of the first gatherings of the fur traders, in which the young
Governor gained golden opinions, was held at Norway House, the old
resting place of the Selkirk Settlers.
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