The author highlights the perception that alcohol had little effect on Dr. Webster's clarity of thought or physical coordination. This comment indicates a belief that he was always in control, even in circumstances where one might expect impaired judgment due to drinking.

However, despite his apparent sobriety in handling life's complexities, Dr. Webster had a remarkable talent for assessing life expectancy with precision. The juxtaposition of his capacity to maintain composure against the backdrop of drunkenness emphasizes his expertise in analytical thinking and his ability to navigate financial realities intelligently.