Within the grand montage of history, we find ourselves transported to an intimate gathering that transcends time, where the contributions of First Ladies are illuminated in a way that resonates with the legacy of Rosalynn Carter, who’s memory we honor today. In my historical fiction, “A Profitable Wife,” we journey back to an era when the White House served as the backdrop for both political maneuvering and the subtle art of diplomacy, where First Ladies played pivotal roles that extended far beyond the public gaze.

In this captivating scene, we step into the drawing rooms of yesteryears, where Julia Gardiner Tyler, wife of President John Tyler, assumes the role of a gracious hostess for a private tea. Among her esteemed guests are the incoming First Lady, Sarah Childress Polk, and the iconic Dolley Madison, widow of President Madison and a beloved figure in Washington society. Yet, beneath the genteel façade lies a deeper narrative—one of enduring friendship, clandestine influence, and the intricate dance of power that unfolded behind the scenes. As we eavesdrop on the exchange between Dolley Madison and Sarah Polk, we bear witness to the captivating personalities and the hidden dynamics that shaped an era. Dolley, renowned for her wit and charm, had returned to Washington with a mission, striving to secure her plantation’s future by selling her late husband’s papers. Her honorary seat in Congress provided a unique vantage point to witness the political debates of the day, while Sarah Polk, a woman of modesty and style, melded fashion with her deep Christian devotion. The looming question, as in any gathering of such import, lingered—would White House entertainment be “dry” during Sarah’s tenure, or would it become a beacon of revelry, accessible only to the influential and wealthy? Join me as we unravel the layers of time, revealing the nuanced narratives that shaped the nation and its First Ladies, echoing the enduring influence exemplified by Rosalynn Carter and her predecessors.

Julia Gardiner Tyler, the wife of President John Tyler, was a vibrant woman some thirty years his junior. At a mere fifty-one years of age, Tyler was the youngest man, to date, ever to serve as president. They married during the second year of his presidency, another first. Alas, John had not won a second term.

John had to run this last race as a third-party candidate. The senator from Kentucky, Henry Clay, had run on behalf of the Whig Party, from which John was now estranged, and James Polk had run for the Democratic Party. Toward the end of the campaign, Andrew Jackson himself had personally asked John to withdraw his candidacy so they could deliver a crushing defeat against Clay, and so he had.

Julia was hosting a private tea for the incoming First Lady, Sarah Childress Polk, and Dolley Madison, the widow of President Madison and her cherished friend. Only the previous year, Dolley had returned to living in Washington, endeavoring to sell some of her deceased husband’s papers to raise money for her struggling plantation. Due to her popularity and connections, Dolley had been granted an honorary seat in Congress, allowing her to witness debates in person. She often engaged in witty repartee with the gentlemen on the Hill during intermissions. Her gossip was a delightful source of entertainment.

Interestingly, Dolley had always been a close friend of Henry Clay; in fact, they liked to call each other “cousin,” despite having no blood relation. With John’s estrangement from Clay, Dolley had not taken sides. Whoever Dolley happened to be with at any given moment always seemed to be her most favorite person. It was one of the many reasons she was so well-liked. Undoubtedly, Dolley had known James and Sarah Polk from political circles over the years, and all three had close affiliations with the former president, Andrew Jackson.

At the moment, Dolley was immersed in a lively conversation with Sarah and appeared to be enjoying it immensely. Sarah Polk was an attractive woman who possessed the unique ability to look stylish even while dressing modestly. Given that Sarah was an devout Christian, both Dolley and Julia were curious if White House entertainment would be served “dry,” as they say, for at least the next four, if not eight, years. Would the place be open to the people or restricted to only those with wealth and influence?

“Well, Sarah, you must know that Henry Clay is in quite a tizzy over losing the election to your husband. This was no less than his fifth attempt, with three actual runs. He is quite beside himself,” Dolley said, tilting her head with a half-smile.

“I doubt Henry Clay will be a tolerable fellow for some time to come,” Julia added as she refreshed each lady’s cup. They all nodded, sharing a moment of amusement.

Julia glanced at Sarah as she quietly sipped her tea. All present knew that this particular lady, having a comprehensive education and no children, played a very active role in her husband’s ambitions and politics. Sarah had adeptly navigated the position of First Lady when her husband was governor of Tennessee and was now ready to assume a similar role on the national stage. It was said that she would continue her role as her husband’s private secretary, reviewing and prioritizing all his correspondence.

Dolley mused over the unwavering support Andrew Jackson had given to Polk’s campaign. Certainly, Jackson held a long grudge against Henry Clay, but Dolley knew all too well that Sarah Polk had been involved with Floride Calhoun in the infamous Petticoat Affair that had ostracized Jackson’s favored couple, the Eatons, in the first year of his presidency. Henry Clay had fueled the gossip as well. The scandal had paralyzed Jackson’s ability to accomplish his goals for months. Back then, Jackson had referred to the women involved as a “witch’s coven.” Clearly, Sarah had been forgiven. Such were the shifting tides of vengeance and clemency in Washington.

“I am curious how you will manage White House hospitality, Sarah. Do tell. Will it be exclusive parties or the people’s house?” Dolley inquired.

Sarah scrutinized the two ladies. She had their undivided attention. They were members of a small club now—all wives of presidents. Some of this club remained involved in politics every bit as much or more than their husbands, well beyond the tenure of the office. Some were glad to be rid of the place once their service had ended. Both Dolley and Julia seemed to thrive in and out of the limelight, and in that, they were all kindred spirits.

“We are Jacksonian Democrats through and through. Western expansion will continue to be a priority,” Sarah stated firmly. “As for our new home, it will be the people’s house, albeit in a more temperate Christian climate.”

“No card tables then, I take it?” Dolley teased.

Sarah smiled politely at Dolley’s mischievous grin. At seventy-seven years of age, this well-respected lady had worn black since the death of her husband in 1836. There was very little teasing Dolley could not get away with, as she was so beloved by those in Washington. Sarah knew she and her husband would likely be relying on Dolley’s politicking skills and prestigious presence at parties and events to help gain influence in the months ahead. To achieve some early goals, they would need assistance reaching across the aisle to some disgruntled Whigs, specifically one Mr. Henry Clay. In that, Dolley was just the person to help.

“Well, I am hoping I can count on you two to support the fundraising effort for President Washington’s monument.” Dolley continued, “As you know, the Monument Society has been trying to secure enough funds to begin construction for quite some time.”

“I can assure you, my husband and I are equally committed to the monument, and we will indeed push to secure initial funding as well as support your private events to raise money for the effort,” Sarah replied. Both she and James were quite aware of Dolley’s interest in this project. It would be a modest down payment for Dolley’s support.

“Splendid!” Dolley replied, her eyes gleaming with determination. She was well aware that there would likely be favors traded to achieve the ultimate goal of breaking ground. Her fervent hope was to see the cornerstone set before drawing her last breath on this earth…

‘A Profitable Wife,’ is now available on Amazon and other online book retailers.