no fear but for
him and the success of our army. When the President reached
Bladensburgh he unexpectedly found the two armies engaged. Meanwhile
terror spread over the city. All who could obtain conveyances fled
to the adjoining towns. The sound of the cannon was distinctly
heard, and universal confusion and dismay prevailed. Some personal
friends who remained with Mrs. Madison strongly urged her to leave
the city. They had her carriage brought to the door, but could not
persuade her to enter it till her husband should return and
accompany her. And she did not finally depart till several
messengers had been despatched to bid her fly.]

Much as she graced her public station, she was not less admirable in
domestic life. Neighbourly and companionable among her country friends,
as if she had never lived in a city, delighting in the society of the
young, and never better pleased than when promoting every youthful
pleasure by her participation;--she still proved herself the
affectionate consort, without neglecting the duties of a kind hostess,
and a faithful friend and relation. She smoothed and enlivened, occupied
and appeased, each varying scene of life. Her husband knew, appreciated,
and acknowledged the blessing which heaven had bestowed on him, in
giving him such a companion.

[_Mrs. Madison_:

"Much as she graced her public station, she has been not less
admirable in domestic life. Neighborly and companionable among her
country friends, as if she had never lived in a city; delighting in
the society of the young, and never better pleased than when
promoting every youthful pleasure by her participation; she still
proved herself the affectionate wife during the years of suffering
health of her excellent husband. Without neglecting the duties of a
kind hostess, a faithful friend and relative, she smoothed and
enlivened, occupied and amused the languid hours of his long
confinement. He knew, appreciated and acknowledged the blessing
which heaven had bestowed on him in giving him such a wife."]

CHAPTER XVIII.

And many an aching heart at rising morn,
A sad memento of the day that's past,
From long protracted slumbers, slowly drawn;
From wearied spirits--with a gloom o'ercast.

All business of importance, at this time, was in a manner suspended in
New-York; the face of things wore a dismal aspect, and the greater part
of the community were in dismay; o