According to presidential historian Charles W. Calhoun, Babcock emerged as Grant's "political majordomo, if not his jackel." Babcock's rumored control, although an exaggeration, over Grant's Navy and Army secretaries, "reflected the impression of Babcock's arrogance and pervasive power." Babcock was viewed as Grant's "Svengali ["fictional character (1894)"] leading the president unto unrighteous paths." Many viewed Babcock was dishonest with "dubious notions of conflict of interest." Grant's Secretary of State Hamilton Fish said Babcock "has brains & very many excellent & gentlemanly qualities but is spoiled by his position & a want of delicacy & consideration for the official responsibilities & proper authority (official) of civilians."