Burlington free press. [volume] (Burlington, Vt.) 1827-1865, 1843-06-09
MARTHA WASHINGTON.
BY MRS. SIGOURNEY

1t was early in the winter of 174S that
the levees Of Governor Gooch of Va. OPEN
ed with unwonted splendorat Wiiamsburgh
Many of the members Of Assembly took
thi,her with them part of their families,
and this session was graced by the precence
of several young high-born maidens, who
had never before been presented at court.
One among these was evidently the theme
of general admiration. Some o! the stateller
matrons criticised her as deficient in height
But, though somewhat beneath the middle
stature, she possessed that round and exqui-
site symetry which the early historians have
ascrbed to the fascinating Anne Boleyn.
A pure complexion, and clear eye, were
finely con'rasted with dark, glossy, and re-
dundant hair.-Still it was found difficult, by
common observers, to analyze her beauty !;
for it rested not on any permanent gift, but
on the consent of the whole movement, and
the melody of voice, were confessed to be
among its elements. More of animation was
hers, than is wont 10 distinguish the modern
Southern beauty; but what chiefly won old
and young, was bland cheerfulness, the ST.
lent history of the souls happiness, and an
expressive smile, inspiring every beholder
with confidence like beam from the temple
Of truth.
Though she had scarcely numbered twice
eight summers, there was about her IA woman
ly dignity, which chas,ened former admira-
ton into respect.
Among those who had paid their deroirs
to this lovely young creature was Colonel
Gusts, one of the most accomplished gentle
men of his time. His father, the Hon. John
Gusts, Of Arlington, held The Office Of Kings
Counsellor, and was a man of wealth and
distinction. His attendance at Williams
burg during the present session had been
somewhat interrupted by i'll health; and while
there, the graver duties of the statesman had
so far absorbed him as to render him igno-
rant as TO what reigning beauties had produce
ed sensation at court. Not long after the
suspension Of the levees, and the return OF
the burgesses to their homes, the counsellor
requested conversation in his cabinet with
his son, Colonel Daniel Parke Gusts.
Il trust have always shown that regard
for your welfare which is due from an ailec-
tionate father to an only son. | am about
to give another proof or it. In short, wish
to turn your attention to suitable MARRIAGE
The Colonel bowed.
you know Colonel Byrd, of Westover,
to be my very particular friend. His daugh-
ter is one of the most beautiful and accom-
plished ladies' in Virginia. 1t is my desire
that you form with her matrimonial ALI
ance.'
He seemed to wait for reply, but in vain.
"May inquire you have thus early pre-
sumed to decide seriously on the preference
Of any young lady as companion for life =
] have, SIR
MAY be favored with knowledge oil
her name =
Miss Martha Darnbridge.'
According to happy prescience, the of-
ty councillor gave his consent to the nup-
tials, and the flower of the court OF Williams.
burg became bride, in the blush Of her sew.
enteeth summer.
Their residence was retired and roman
tic mansion on the banks of the Pamunkey
II reared its white walls amid profu,iop o