“ The parting was affectionate, and the venerable woman died shortly afterward, too suddenly to make it possible for her son to reach her. Mary Washington, more than any other one woman, is to be remembered for having given to the world one of the greatest men of history. Her simple virtues were reflected in her glorious son, and the name of George Washington will never be mentioned without calling up pleasant thoughts of the noble, simple mother who gave him birth— Mary Washington. ”