Hm, very interesting. I think you're probably right in thinking that he's a war-time leader, not a peace-time leader and I think you've explained him beautifully. In a word; brilliant.

Very interesting, and very well-written. I love how you characterize him... I think you capture him perfectly.

"He was a Minister for war, a politician too harsh to comfort an easy country."

That was the best characterization I've seen of Rufus, and you really explained him well. Major props for taking on a character few others can handle. This was well written and effective, so thanks and keep it up!