Existing comment:
A Secret Engagement:
During the four months following their first meeting, Ulysses and Julia's friendship blossomed. Ulysses surprised Julia by proposing, but she refused, believing she was too young. Julia discovered the depth of her feelings, however, when Ulysses was absent visiting his family in Ohio. Returning to St. Louis, he learned of his regiment's transfer and quickly requested a few days' leave so he could see Julia. Ulysses professed his love again, and as they talked quietly on the front porch he pressed his class ring in her hand. Knowing he intended it as an engagement ring, Julia accepted it, but insisted that they keep the engagement a secret.
"After [Ulysses and I] returned home [from the city], the balance of the week was most agreeably passed in long rides and walks. The day of parting came too soon. I begged him not to say anything to papa about our engagement, and he consented to this simply on account of shyness, he acknowledged to me."
-- Julia Grant |