American Queen

[Linda Anderson]

Fanny Seward gives the following account of her first meeting with Kate Chase.

April 9, 1862

"Father sent word that he wished for us to go with him to see a new Revenue cutter, Mr. Chase had invited the President also - & Miss Chase was to be there. It was the worst day I almost ever saw at this season - snow on the ground, liquid mud in the streets, & alternate hail and rain falling - we went in the close[d] carriage, Father, Anna and I - The vessel was at the Navy Yard..."

They went onboard the vessel and met Mr. and Miss Chase.

"We waited some time for the President, who sent a regret...I was sorry he did not [come] for I think it would have done him good, he keeps so much confined. But we had a very pleasant time, & were in the best place possible for such a bad day. This cabin was charming - the furniture as superb as any that of any drawing room - it was carpeted with brussels - there was a center table, covered with a crimson cloth embroidered with gold colored silk - upon which upon a salver to match stood a handsome plated ice-pitcher. Over it swung a bronze lamp. Besides the port holes there was a little cupola - of glass, to give light, the chairs were covered with the costliest silk, or satin covering, I don't know the name of it...I liked Miss Chase very much, she is very pretty, beautiful eyes & long silken lashes, both are dark, her hair light and wavy - a sweet voice - a fine figure dressed in excellent taste - a drab ottoman cloth, perfectly fitting, & the grave color set off by a dainty scarlet cravet bow - She seemed pleasant & good natured - She has a turned up nose, & what would disfigure almost any one else, is beauty with her..."

Sensitivity & Civil War: The Selected Diaries and Papers, 1858-1866, of Frances Adeline (Fanny) Seward, Patricia Carley Johnson