CHRISTMAS AT MOUNT VERNON

Fourth in this author's historical yuletide snapshots, this focusses on the return of the Commander and his Martha (called Patsy) to Mount Vernon on the first Christmas of the peace in 1783 after Washington has resigned his commission. There is a bustling family turmoil; there are officers in the party; there are plans for adding to the house; 27 years of marriage have not stilled Patsy's jealous twinges over Sally Fairfax or Caty Greene; George sounds off about Patsy's unbecoming mobocap and Christmas Eve leads to a busy, happy, almost contented Christmas Day, with simple presents and enjoyments. The benediction of peace has a comforting recall here.