In the Spectator's account of himself—i.e. of the imaginary writer of the new paper, the successor to Isaac Bickorstaff of the Tatler—we have a humorous portrait of Addison. At least the disposition to be silent except "in my own club," the love of quiet observation, the avoidance of party disputes, are all personal traits ; and there is a touch of autobiography in what is said of the Spectator's college career and reputation and his subsequent travels.