Robertson has been conspicuous and influential in local and State Conventions for many years, took an active part in the National Conventions of 1864, 1876, 1880 and 1884, and was for fifteen years a member of the Republican State Committee. In his political life he has been remarkably successful, having never been defeated when a candidate before the people, although his principal canvasses have been made in a district of which the party majority was against him. He has achieved this result by the strength of his personal character, his fidelity to friends, his uniform and sincere courtesy, his unquestioned integrity and his legal and business ability. He possesses in an unusual degree " the genius of common sense," an acute knowledge of human nature and thorough self-control. He is of literary tastes and studious habits, and values no less than his political honors the degree of LL.D., which was conferred on him by Williams College in 1876.

In 1865 Mr. Robertson married Miss Mary E. Ballard, daughter of Hon. Horatio Ballard, who was a prominent lawyer of Cortland County, and well known throughout the State. In- 1869 he built the house at Katonah, where he has resided since that time. In the community where he lives, he is a judicious and willing counselor of all who seek his advice, a liberal contributor to religious and charitable objects, a public-spirited citizen and a valued friend.

Robert Cochran, who succeeded Judge Robertson in 1867, was born in New York City in 1824, and after being graduated from Columbia College, became associated in the practice of the law with George T. Strong, with whom he remained for several years. Subsequently he went into partnership with General Munson I. Lockwood at Sing Sing, and afterwards (in 1857) with Samuel E. Lyons, at White Plains.