ce distinguished all her actions. To these she added an
amiability of temper, the polished address of a lady, with a
conversation both pleasing and instructive. Her deportment to all was
prepossessing, by the affectionate manner in which she addressed them
separately, and the interest she manifested in their welfare. In these
she showed no difference between the rich and the poor, and devoted much
of her time to the cause of charity. She was eminently distinguished for
her amiable qualities, and a peculiar versatility of talent in her
conversation and manners. She entertained the numerous friends and
guests of the president with cordial hospitality. She treated her
husband's relatives with regard and kindness; and in the president's
house, whenever there were female guests, Mrs. Madison always presided.

[_Mrs. Madison_
(any quotations are from National Portrait Gallery: see Sources):

The parents of Mrs. Madison, whose maiden name was Dolly Payne, were
natives of Virginia.... Their daughter was educated in Philadelphia
in all the strictness of the sect to which the family belonged. She
was, therefore, but little indebted to acquired graces and
accomplishments for the admiration and regard which followed her
wherever she was known. To much personal beauty, she added a warm
heart and a benevolent disposition; charms and attractions which won
for her not only admirers but friends....]

[_Lives of Signers_: Rush of Pennsylvania (first paragraph refers
to Dr. Rush's mother):

must exalt her to high eminence in our estimation.
...
His natural and acquired endowments he carried into society with
such pleasing manners and graceful demeanor, as produced, almost
universally, an impression highly favorable to himself among the
citizens of Philadelphia. His society was much esteemed by all the
companies he frequented. His mental powers were of a superior grade.
To these he added the polished address and manners of a gentleman,
and a conversation both pleasing and instructive. His deportment in
the sick room was prepossessing, by the affectionate manner with
which he addressed his patients, and the strong interest he
manifested for their recovery. In these he showed no difference
between the rich, who could amply reward him, and the poor, whose
only requital was their cordial gratitude and their prayers.]

[_Lives of Signers_: Witherspoon of New Jersey:

poss