And you will pardon me if the state of my own spirits obliges me for the most part to keep my chamber.

But my friends here will bear you company as long as you favour us, whilst I nurse my poor Harry upstairs.

Mountain, you will have the cedar-room on the ground-floor ready for Mr.
Washington, and anything in the house is at his command.

Farewell, sir.
Will you be pleased to present my compliments to your mother, who will be thankful to have her son safe and sound out of the war,--as also to my young friend Martha Custis, to whom and to whose children I wish every happiness.

Come, my son!" and with these words, and another freezing curtsey, the pale little woman retreated, looking steadily at the Colonel, who stood dumb on the floor.
Strong as Madam Esmond's belief appeared to be respecting her son's safety, the house of Castlewood naturally remained sad and gloomy.
She might forbid mourning for herself and family; but her heart was in black, whatever face the resolute little lady persisted in wearing before the world.