[1] Originally trained as a harness maker, he contracted polio which left him unable to perform such demanding physical labor.

[1] Unable to continue his studies after the first year because his funds were exhausted, he returned to Vermont and set up a collection agency in the law offices of Henry C. Bates, and the fees he earned enabled him to return to school.

[3] A Democrat, in 1904, he was an unsuccessful candidate for the United States House of Representatives, losing to Kittredge Haskins.

In 1912 and 1914 he was the unsuccessful Democratic candidate for Governor of Vermont, losing to Allen M. Fletcher and Charles W.

[2] He was confirmed by the United States Senate on February 22, 1915, and received his commission the same day.