"In the above remarks, we have indicated a few of Mr. Pierce's
characteristics as an advocate; but he possesses other endowments, to
which we have not alluded. In the first place, as he is a perfectly
fearless man, so he is a perfectly fearless advocate; and true courage is
as necessary to the civilian as to the soldier, and smiles and frowns Mr.
Pierce disregards alike in the undaunted discharge of his duty. He never
fears to uphold his client, however unpopular his cause may seem to be
for the moment. It is this courage which kindles his eloquence, inspires
his conduct, and gives direction and firmness to his skill. This it is
which impels him onward, at all risks, to lay bare every 'mystery of
iniquity' which he believes is threatening his case. He does not ask
himself whether his opponent be not a man of wealth and influence, of
whom it might be for his interest to speak with care and circumspection;
but he devotes himself with a ready zeal to his cause, careless of aught
but how he may best discharge his duty. His argumentative powers are of
the highest order. He never takes before the court a position which he
believes untenable. He has a quick and sure perception of his points,
and the power of enforcing them by apt and pertinent illustrations.
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