"You appear to think very highly of Colonel Washington; yet I have been told that he is so ignorant a fellow that he can hardly write his own name."
"It may be the case," she readily replied, "but no one knows better than yourself that he knows how to make his mark."
We should think that he would have been ready to drop the subject in the presence of ladies so well able to defend their country's gallant officers.
Mrs. Thomas Heyward, in two instances, with the utmost firmness refused to illuminate for British victories. An officer forced his way into her presence, sternly demanding:
"How dare you disobey the order which has been issued? Why, madam, is not your house illuminated?"
"Is it possible for me, sir," replied the lady, with perfect calmness, "to feel a spark of joy? Can I celebrate the victory of your army while my husband remains a prisoner at St. Augustine?"
"That is of little consequence," rejoined the officer; "the last hopes of the rebellion are crushed by the defeat of Greene at Guilford. You shall illuminate."
"Not a single light," replied the lady, "shall be placed on such an occasion, with my consent, in any window of my house."
"Then, madam, I will return with a party, and before midnight, level it with the ground."
"You have power to destroy, sir, and seem well disposed to use it; but over my opinions you possess no control. I disregard your menaces, and resolutely declare—I will not illuminate!"