Woe to the man who provoked the lion to anger,--he pawed him to
death. His gesture was not very demonstrative, but it was sometimes very
energetic, and when he wanted a cheer for a man or a principle, he
called for it, by a bold flourish of his hand above his head. But
O'Connell stood in little need of the aids which gesture commonly gives
the public speaker; his fine presence and unrivalled voice did
everything for him. It is said he had no ear for music, but his voice
when speaking in public, was the most musical that could be heard: great
in power and compass, rich in tone, ever fresh in the variety of its
cadences, it was as unique and striking as the great man to whom it
belonged; nor was the charming brogue which accompanied it, the least of
its attractions. Another advantage possessed by him has not been so much
remarked upon--the rapid, changeful expression of his features. By
observing O'Connell's face, as he spoke, one could be sure of the tone
and temper of what was coming. Was he about to make an adversary
ridiculous by an anecdote or a witticism? His eyes, his lips, his whole
face suddenly became expressive of humour. Did he intend to turn from
pleasantries to solemn warning, or fierce denunciation? (a usual habit
of his); the dark cloud was sure to cast its shadow across his manly
features, before the thunder came forth.
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