Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. II.djvu/303

JAMES BUCHANAN 243 defended the constitution against the heresy of nullification. But in the course of a long, useful, and consistent life filled with the exercise of talents of a fine order and uniform ability, he had made the constitution of his country the object of his deepest affection, the constant guide of all his pub lic acts. He published a vindication of the policy of his administration during the last month of his term, "Buchanan s Administration" (New York, 1866). See "Life of President Buchanan," by George Ticknor Curtis (2 vols., 1883). HARRIET LANE JOHNSTON was born in Mercers- burg, Pa., in 1833. She was the daughter of Elliott T. Lane and his wife, June Buchanan, who, dying, left her to the care of her uncle, James Buchanan. She was educated at the Roman Catholic convent in Georgetown, D. C., and, on the appointment of Mr. Buchanan to the English mission in 1853, accompanied him to London, where she dispensed the hospitalities of the embassy. During his term as chief magistrate she was mistress of the White House, over which she presided with grace and dignity, receiving, among other distinguished guests, the Prince of Wales and his large party. In 1866 she married Elliott Johnston, of Maryland, and after that event resided in Baltimore, Wash ington, and at Wheatland, surviving her husband