America's First Daughter

In 1824, Monticello receives an unexpected visit from William. He charms the entire family. Patsy realizes that her feelings for William, and his for her, haven’t changed over the years. However, Tom’s morose and drunken behavior tarnishes the happy reunion. Patsy is humiliated to have William witness her domestic problems: “And now my remaining family was splintering apart, with my oldest and dearest friend as a witness” (513).

Patsy’s daughter Ginny marries for love rather than fortune. Patsy is reminded that William was once considered penniless yet became more prosperous than the landed gentleman she married.

Patsy’s daughter Ellen has cast herself in the role of caregiver for her mother and grandfather even though a suitor is eager to marry her. Patsy advises Ellen not to let duty chain her because she wants Ellen to have the happiness Patsy denied herself: “For I was determined that my precious daughter, the one I clung to the way my father clung to me, would well and truly find it” (518).

Patsy tries to hide bruises inflicted by her husband. She can’t fool her father or their guest. William pursues her into the garden, demanding to know what Tom has done. William once again professes his love for her.