Mitchell, who represented Stevens on a Supreme Court case in the 1990s, said Stevens can be very harsh with his own staff.

NPR: Facing Indictment, Sen. Stevens Claims Innocence

Mitchell said Alaskans refer to Stevens as "Uncle Ted, " but it's not because they find him warm and cuddly.

NPR: 'Uncle Ted' Stevens: Alaska's Gruff, Tough Advocate

Last summer, when I asked Mitchell if this irascible image of Stevens was accurate, he smiled.

NPR: Facing Indictment, Sen. Stevens Claims Innocence

"It is one of the Ted Stevens that exist, " Mitchell said.

NPR: 'Uncle Ted' Stevens: Alaska's Gruff, Tough Advocate

"Once you're made with Stevens, you're made, " Mitchell said.

NPR: Facing Indictment, Sen. Stevens Claims Innocence

Don Mitchell is a writer, lawyer and Alaska historian who has known Stevens over the years.

NPR: 'Uncle Ted' Stevens: Alaska's Gruff, Tough Advocate