She was spending the winter in the city with connections, the family of Colonel John O'Fallon, well known in St.
Louis.

In February she returned to her country home.

After that I do not know but my visits became more frequent; they certainly did become more enjoyable.

We would often take walks, or go on horseback to visit the neighbors, until I became quite well acquainted in that vicinity.
Sometimes one of the brothers would accompany us, sometimes one of the younger sisters.

If the 4th infantry had remained at Jefferson Barracks it is possible, even probable, that this life might have continued for some years without my finding out that there was anything serious the matter with me; but in the following May a circumstance occurred which developed my sentiment so palpably that there was no mistaking it.
The annexation of Texas was at this time the subject of violent discussion in Congress, in the press, and by individuals.