d I embrace the opportunity
to send a few words to one whose life is now inseparable
from mine.

"Since that happy hour, when we made our pledges to each
other, my thoughts have been continually going to you as to
another self. That an All-powerful Providence may keep us
both in safety is the prayer of your ever faithful and
affectionate Friend,

"G. WASHINGTON

"20th of July
Mrs. Martha Custis."

On the sixth of the following January they were married in the little
church of St. Peter. Once again Dr. Mossum, in full canonicals,
married "Patsy" Dandridge to the man of her choice. The bridegroom
wore a blue cloth coat lined with red silk and ornamented with silver
trimmings. His vest was embroidered white satin, his shoe- and
knee-buckles were of solid gold, his hair was powdered, and a dress
sword hung at his side.

The bride was attired in heavy brocaded white silk inwoven with a
silver thread. She wore a white satin quilted petticoat with heavy
corded white silk over-skirt, and high-heeled shoes of white satin
with buckles of brilliants. She had ruffles of rich point lace, pearl
necklace, ear-rings, and bracelets, and was attended by three
bridesmaids.

The aristocracy of Virginia was out in full force. One of the
most imposing figures was Bishop, the negro servant, who had led
Washington's horse up and down the gravelled path in front of Mr.
Chamberlayne's door while the master lingered within. He was in the
scarlet uniform of King George's army, booted and spurred, and he held
the bridle rein of the chestnut charger that was forced to wait while
his rider made love.

On leaving the church, the bride and her maids rode back to the "White
House" in a coach drawn by six horses, and guided by black post-boys
in livery, while Colonel Washington, on his magnificent horse, and
attended by a brilliant company, rode by her side.

There was no seer to predict that some time the little lady in white
satin, brocade silk, and rich laces, would spend long hours knitting
stockings for her husband's army, and that night after night would
find her, in a long grey cloak, at the side of the wounded, hearing
from stiffening lips the husky whisper, "God bless you, Lady
Washington!"

All through the troublous times that followed, Washington was the
lover as well as the husband. He took a father's place with the little
children, treating them with affection,