Physical Appearance
In respect to physical ability, Otis was happily endowed. One who knew him well has recorded, that “he was finely formed, and had an intelligent countenance: his eye, voice, and manner were very impressive.
“The elevation of his mind, and the known integrity of his purposes, enabled him to speak with decision and dignity, and commanded the respect as well as the admiration of his audience.
“His eloquence showed but little imagination, yet it was instinct with the fire of passion.”
“It may be not unjustly said of Otis, as of Judge Marshall, that he was one of those rare beings that seem to be sent among men from time to time, to keep alive our faith in humanity.
“He had a wonderful power over the popular feelings, but he employed it only for great public benefits. He seems to have said to himself, in the language of the great master of the maxims of life and conduct:
“This above all,—to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.”