towers and wood of the chateau appeared in peaceful repose, as we drove
near; and when we gained a full view of the building, I felt great emotion;
it was the residence of a great and good man--a patriot and friend of
mankind, whose life had been consecrated to virtue and liberty; the family
came to the hall to meet us, happy in themselves, and rejoicing to see the
illustrious friend of Lafayette! I cannot forget that moment--no silly
affectation, no airs of idle ceremony were seen at the residence of him,
who had gloriously struggled for America, and had done all he could for
France.

"M. de Lafayette and Madame received Mr. and Mrs. Fox with the heartiest
welcome. The family consisted of two daughters, and a son and his wife, all
young and elegant; all living with M. de Lafayette, as a brother and
friend. His graceful and manly form, his benevolent countenance, his frank
and warm manners, which made him almost adored by his family, and a placid
contentedness, nearly allied to cheerfulness; altogether had an
irresistible effect, in gaining the affections and esteem of those admitted
to his more intimate society.

"Madame de Lafayette, of the noble family of Noailes, was a superior and
admirable woman, possessing the high polish of the ancient nobility,
eloquent and animated. Fondly attached to M. de Lafayette and her family,
she regretted nothing of past splendor; she possessed an affectionate
husband, and was happy in retirement. The son was a pleasing young man, and
his wife engaging and interesting; the daughters were charming women,
entirely free from the insipid languor or wretched affectation, which in
young ladies of fashion so much destroys originality of character, and
makes us find, in one of the fashionables, the prototype and pattern of
thousands. In a word, this amiable and happy family seemed united by one
bond of affection, and to desire nothing beyond the circle of their own