e. Her quick recognition of persons, her recurrence to
their peculiar interests produced the gratifying impression in each and
all of those who conversed with her that they were especial objects of
regard. The house was very plainly furnished, and her dress in no way
extravagant; and it was only in hospitality and charity that her
profusion was unlimited. The amiable and engaging qualities which have
been here described, characterized Mrs. Madison in her husband's public
life. In the midst of the bitterness of party spirit, and the violence
of political animosity, she was mild and courteous to all. The political
assailants of her husband she treated with a kindness which disarmed
their hostility of its individual rancour, and sometimes even converted
political enemies into personal friends, and still oftener succeeded in
neutralizing the bitterness of opposition.

At this period her courage and firmness were put to a severe test. In
August, 1814, the British troops landed forty miles below Washington,
and approached that city. The president left the city to hold a council
of war. Before his departure he anxiously inquired if she had courage or
firmness to remain in their house until his return on the morrow, or
succeeding day. She assured him she had no fear but for him and the
success of the 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, apprec