He was, therefore, allowed to return home in three months instead of two years, and in February, 1774, was wedded to the girl of his choice.

Mrs.Washington felt the loss of her daughter too keenly to attend, but sent this message by her husband: "MY DEAR NELLY .-- God took from me a Daughter when June Roses were blooming--He has now given me another Daughter about her Age when Winter winds are blowing, to warm my Heart again.

I am as Happy as One so Afflicted and so Blest can be.

Pray receive my Benediction and a wish that you may long live the Loving Wife of my happy Son, and a Loving Daughter of "Your affectionate Mother, "M.

WASHINGTON." The marriage, it may be added here, sobered John Custis.