However, due to his vigour and determination Sage was able to self-tutor himself and start working as a printer in the Middleton newspaper.

After returning to the northern United States, he settled in Circleville, Ohio, out of which base he became well known as a writer, speaker and activist.

He organised a debating club, which became very popular, and his press connections brought him in contact with the most prominent citizens of the country.

At first he edited and published a weekly campaign paper, later on a daily one in support of Harrison and other Whig candidates.

But his future ideas of travel and adventure had to be changed – his elderly and invalid mother convinced Sage to marry and settle down.