MARTHA WASHINGTON.

MEMOIR

OF

MARTHA WASHINGTON.

A PERFECT WOMAN, nobly planned,
To warn, to comfort, and command;
And yet a spirit, still and bright,
With something of an Angel's light!

WORDSWORTH.

Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way;
But to act that each to-morrow,
Finds us farther than to-day.

LONGFELLOW.

CONTENTS

OF THE

LIFE OF MARTHA WASHINGTON.

CHAPTER I.

PAGE

THE Subject of our Memoir, a Belle, in her early Years, in the Capital of Virginia-Her Disposition and Appearance-Maiden Name-Place and Date of her Birth-Descent-Education-Mental EndowmentsHer early Matrimonial Engagement-Opposition of Col. Custis' Father-The Marriage of Miss Dandridge-Removal to the Plantation of her Husband-Name and Situation of the Residence of Col. Custis -Character and Hospitality of Col. Custis-Mrs. Custis an American Matron-Becomes a Mother-Her Domestic Happiness-The Death of her Eldest Son-Death of Col. Custis-Anecdote-Strength of Mind displayed by Mrs. Custis-Her two remaining Children-Her Religious Principle-Business Abilities of Mrs. Custis-Active Attention to her Children

97

CHAPTER II.

Mrs. Custis a beautiful and fascinating Widow-The White House again the Seat of Hospitality-Mrs. Custis for some time not tempted to remarry-Meets Col. Washington-His undisguised Admiration of the fair Widow-Their Engagement--The War-Steed and Servant of the Soldier the Victims of Cupid's arts-Preparations for the WeddingThe Distinguished Character of the Assemblage-The "Pride, Pomp and Circumstance" of the Occasion € 106