Wildman’s mode of presenting his case was not always of the happiest. He laid stress on aspects of whipping that cannot but exist yet need not be emphasized; he further hindered his cause by undignified publicity and indeed by a craving after vulgar applause; he lacked both prudence and a sense of proportion, thus laying himself open to many rash and doubtful actions; this same lack of proportion invited doubt in many eyes as to the sincerity of his numerous ethical professions; while a certain clumsiness in his writings and publicity alike could not be denied. Averse to all criticism, he perhaps led people to suspect his true motives — though what these were only a trained psychologist could decide.