“ But whether as an apprentice in a butcher-stall, or the proprietor of one, he was a fighter, ready for action on all occasions when he fancied he had been insulted; and while his manners, when he was not aroused, were generally marked with much politeness, his spirit was haughty and over-bearing. He was slow to give an insult, being restrained by a feeling of dignified self-respect, which was characteristic of him; but he was quick and fierce to resent an affront. He could not brook an insolent remark from one who thought himself as strong as he. ”

“ I have known of him for even fifteen years; during the last four or five months I have been his company almost continually; he had a difficulty two or three months ago in his saloon, corner of Howard-street and Broadway, with a young man named Maurice Lannegan; this man came in drunk with the intention to fight Poole, and was whipped, but that affair had nothing to do with causing his death; Lannegan is an acquaintance of a man who is called "Pargene;" I have seen this "Pargene" described as having the name of Patrick McLaughlin; Lannegan is acquainted also with Baker; "Pargene" is a runner ”

“ Bill Poole, during most of his illness, since the night of the affray, was able to talk to his family and the various friends who visited him; and about half and hour before his death he engaged in conversation with them. In fact, he was strong enough to set up in bed, propped and supported by pillows. Only a few minutes before expiring he remarked, with great distinctness of voice, "I think I am a goner. If I die, I die a true American ”