Here he won the respect and affection of all classes.
Among his associates at the bar, his courtesy in practice, his legal ability, his integrity, high sense of honor, and manly straightforwardness inspired marked confidence and esteem.
In the resolutions adopted by the bar, after his death, special reference is made to the scrupulous care with which he ever sought to guard and promote the dignity of his profession, and to make it the means of purifying the administration of justice.
In 1859 he was elected District Attorney of Chatauqua County.
The vote was a very flattering one,—in Dunkirk being nearly double that of his party ticket.
Some sturdy old farmers from the county, and others who, from his very youthful appearance, had voted against him, came to him after a few months' trial of him in office, to say, Mr. Stevens, we voted against you; now we have to say, if you wish our votes at any time, or any aid whatever, count on us.
One of the first cases brought forward by