All dined at the Marquis de la Fayette. There was a considerable company, mostly composed of Americans. We saw two of the Marquis’s children; he has three; but the other is out at nurse at Versailles. His son is called George Washington: about 4 years old, a very pretty child: the Legislature of the State of Connecticut have lately made his father and him, citizens of that State.
The Marquis’s youngest daughter is named Virginia. Madame is a very agreeable woman, and has a pleasing countenance: She is extremely fond of her husband and children, which is a most uncommon circumstance: especially as when they were married, neither of them was more than 12 years old: She told my father that Mrs. Jay, did not like the french Ladies. “Ni moi, non plus.” And that if Monsr. le Marquis goes to America again, she will go with him.
John Quincy Adams’s diary, 21st February 1785
‘She is extremely fond of her husband and children, which is a most uncommon circumstance’ good to know he shared the same opinion as his mother –
‘I should always take pleasure in [Adrienne’s] company. She is a good and amiable Lady, exceedingly fond of her Children and attentive to their education; passionatly attached to her Husband!!! A French Lady and fond of her Husband!!!’
– Abigail Adams to Mary Cranch, 15 April 1785
(via iafayettes)
Daintyfire 