George Joseph Vining:
An Account of His Life

Chapter Four

In loving memory of Mother's Sister

On the ship we came over in, my Aunt made the acquaintance of the 2^nd mate of the ship named Brown, and a successful courtship took place. Brown left his ship and came with us to Pine Bluff, Arkansas. They expected to marry soon, but it was not to be so. Whether Mr. Brown wanted her to leave Mother and go back or not I do not know but I think she broke the match off for our sakes. I know Brown went back -- feeling very bad -- but do not know the details --particulars.

After Ma's death, Aunt Sarah was removed to the doctor residence above town for better care and attention -- she had with her considerable family jewelry -- a gold watch, clip, rings, Mother's brooches, breast pins, earrings, etc. and also $500 or over in gold. She had told someone that in case of her death, which I now think she expected, that money was to be used to send us back to England. Her body was sent down to be laid beside her sister she whom she loved, and had literally given her life for.

But this money in jewelry, clothing and personal effects were never seen. I think a retribution overtook many that did us such great wrong. For years after, we would chance of a piece of jewelry, or clothing, or ornament or book that had been ours. The better to conclude with that part of my life.