 In contrast to his public persona , Howerton reportedly enjoyed cigars and beer , " often yelled obscenities , " and was known to " run the length of a bar , kicking anything in his way " , sometimes whilst dressed in children 's clothes . While working with Ringling Brothers , Howerton befriended Jack Earle who was 7 ft 7 1 ⁄ 2 in ( 2 @.@ 32 m ) tall , but at the time was advertised as being 8 ft 7 in ( 2 @.@ 62 m ) . The two were often photographed together in promotional materials for Ringling Brothers , with it being said that " it is penny @-@ ante poker which has made pals of Jack and the major " . 
