Mrs.Washington had aged greatly and was now a semi-invalid often confined to her bed.

The Farmer himself came of short-lived stock and realized that his pilgrimage would not be greatly prolonged.

Twice during the year he was seriously ill, and in September was laid up for more than a week.

His brother Charles died and in acknowledging the sad news he wrote: "I was the first, and am, now, the last of my father's children by the second marriage, who remain.
"When I shall be _called upon to follow them_ is known only to the Giver of Life.

When the summons comes, I shall endeavor to obey it with good grace." And yet there were gleams of joy and gladness.