Her health, and even the tranquillity of her hitherto constant spirit, had been shaken by what she had gone through.

During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame.
From Italy they visited Germany and France.

I, their eldest child, was born at Naples, and as an infant accompanied them in their rambles.

I remained for several years their only child.

Much as they were attached to each other, they seemed to draw inexhaustible stores of affection from a very mine of love to bestow them upon me.