Her father was acquainted with the most prominent scientific men in the country, and in his hospitable home at Nantucket she met many persons of distinction in literature and science.
She cared but little for general society, and had always to be coaxed to go into company.

Later in life, however, she was much more socially inclined, and took pleasure in making and receiving visits.

She could neither dance nor sing, but in all amusements which require quickness and a ready wit she was very happy.

She was very fond of children, and knew how to amuse them and to take care of them.

As she had half a dozen younger brothers and sisters, she had ample opportunity to make herself useful.
She was a capital story-teller, and always had a story on hand to divert a wayward child, or to soothe the little sister who was lying awake, and afraid of the dark.