Explore popular quotes and sayings by an American first lady Dolley Madison.
Last updated on December 23, 2024.
Dolley Todd Madison was the wife of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States from 1809 to 1817. She was noted for holding Washington social functions in which she invited members of both political parties, essentially spearheading the concept of bipartisan cooperation. Previously, founders such as Thomas Jefferson would only meet with members of one party at a time, and politics could often be a violent affair resulting in physical altercations and even duels. Madison helped to create the idea that members of each party could amicably socialize, network, and negotiate with each other without violence. By innovating political institutions as the wife of James Madison, Dolley Madison did much to define the role of the President's spouse, known only much later by the title first lady—a function she had sometimes performed earlier for the widowed Thomas Jefferson.
Two messengers covered with dust come to bid me fly, but I wait for him.
It is done... the precious portrait placed in the hands of the gentlemen for safe keeping.
Disaffection stalks around us.
And now, dear sister, I must leave this house or the retreating army will make me a prisoner in it by filling up the road I am directed to take.
Our private property must be sacrificed.
I am accordingly ready; I have pressed as many Cabinet papers into trunks as to fill one carriage; our private property must be sacrificed, as it is impossible to procure wagons for its transportation.
At this late hour a wagon has been procured, and I have had it filled with plate and the most valuable portable articles, belonging to the house.
It is one of my sources of happiness never to desire a knowledge of other people's business.
When I shall again write to you, or where I shall be tomorrow, I cannot tell.
you may imagine me the very shadow of my husband.
I would rather fight with my hands than my tongue.