Lincoln and Ann Rutledge

[L Verge]

That was typical for couples of means during the early years of our country (and earlier in Europe and even today). It assisted in mates getting sleep when one was restless, snoring, etc. It also kept servants guessing what was going on and allowed them to enter with fresh water for the basins or to help in dressing without invading the privacy of the other. Bedrooms (especially a lady's) often had desks in them where one could write by lamp light without disturbing a sleeping partner.

Again, know the customs of the day.