"It is not much of a storm," Washington replied. "Besides, I have a piece of work under way that I must superintend."
"I fear that you will take cold," continued Mrs. Washington. "Sitting at the fire is more fitting for a man of your age than exposing yourself in such a storm."
He went, however, nor returned until almost time for dinner. His locks were covered with snow and sleet, and he was quite wet.
Mrs. Washington advised him to change his apparel, but he declined, saying:
"The wet is of little consequence. I shall soon be dry."
In the evening he read aloud to his family as usual although he was somewhat hoarse. The next day, the storm was still more severe, and he remained within doors, complaining of a slight cold. Again he read aloud to his family in the evening. This was on Friday, the thirteenth day of December.
On retiring, Mr. Lear, his private secretary, said to him:
"General, you had better take something for your cold."
"No," replied Washington; "you know that I never take anything for a cold. Let it go as it came."