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Jane's nephews description of Jane:
"In person she was very attractive; her figure was rather tall and slender, her step light and firm, and her whole appearance expressive of health and animation. In complexion she was a clear brunette with a rich colour; she had full round cheeks, with mouth and nose small and well formed, bright hazel eyes, and brown hair forming natural curls close round her face. Jane herself was fond of music, and had a sweet voice, both in singing and in conversation; in her youth she had received some instruction on the pianoforte. She read French with facility, and knew something of Italian. She was as ready to comfort the unhappy, or to nurse the sick, as she was to laugh and jest with the light-hearted"
Her niece recalled: "As a very little girl I was always creeping up to aunt Jane, and following her whenever I could, in the house and out of it. Her first charm to children was great sweetness of manner. She seemed to love you, and you loved her in return. She could make everything amusing to a child. Then, as I got older, when cousins came to share the entertainment, she would tell us the most delightful stories, chiefly of Fairyland, and her fairies had all characters of their own. The tale was invented, I am sure, at the moment, and was continued for two or three days, if occasion served"
It was also said: "Jane was successful in everything that she attempted with her fingers. Writing was not the only part of her letters which showed superior handiwork. In those days there was an art in folding and sealing. Some people's letters always looked loose and untidy; but her paper was sure to take the right folds, and her sealing- wax to drop into the right place. Her needlework both plain and ornamental was excellent, and might almost have put a sewing machine to shame. She was considered especially great in satin stitch. She spent much time in these occupations, and some of her merriest talk was over clothes which she and her companions were making, sometimes for themselves, and sometimes for the poor"
In the silver hush of a starry Winters night - In the song of the wind through the trees - In the gentle grace of the snowflakes as they fall - In the whispered promise of peace. Wishing you true deep blessings of the season.
Have a wonderful Thursday!
Diane