A Winter in Washington (Volume 1); Or, Memoirs of the Seymour Family

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1824. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... and so, madam, we went on from bad to worse, till we came to the condition you see. And your husband? Why, madam, as he could not get work enough to do, and, indeed, his health did not allow him to follow his trade, he enlisted in the marine corps, and was sent about a year ago in one of our men-of-war to the Mediterranean. We hope to see him one day, and it is that, as much as any thing, that makes us unwilling to expose our poverty; for he is a proud man, madam, though only a mechanic, and now that he has entered the service he is prouder than before. Do tell us, Mrs. Bertrand, (that I think you told me was your name, ) how can we assist you? believe me, it is a false pride, that makes you more willing that your children should suffer DEGREES than receive relief from others. Dear madam, do not judge me hardly; I could not go to beg, and there are few who, like you, come in search of distress. I feel no unwillingness to be relieved by you. If, then, you can give me a little medicine and some work, I will be much obliged to you. And if you have some small coarse work that you would be so kind as to let my eldest daughter do, I should take it as - great favour, for she wishes to improve in her sewing, and really we have nothing to make on which she could learn. Pray, how many children have you? said Mrs. Seymour. I have five of my own, answered Mrs. Bertrand, and one little girl that was left with me to board, about six months ago; but I am now in great trouble about her, for I receive no more money, as I used to do, for keeping her j I depended mainly on that for the support of my family; I have taken such a liking to her, that I have always treated her like one of my own children; Anny there has taught her to read and sew a little, but I am afraid t...