Washington Sentinel

ITEMS OF NEWS.

Melancholy and Distressing Occurrence.

It is with deep regret that we have to announce the death of Mrs. Fannie B. Hunton, the wife of Robt. H. Hunton, esq., merchant, of this place, caused by a most melancholy accident. Mrs. H. was sitting alone in her room, at the Mansion House, on Wednesday night, before the fire, when her dress accidentally caught, probably from a spark, and she was soon enveloped in flames. She rushed into the hall, and those near by, alarmed at her cries, came to her assistance, and succeeded at last in extinguishing the fire, but not until she was so dreadfully burned, that all hopes for the preservation of her life were over. She lingered until yesterday morning, when she expired. Her husband was absent from the room when the accident occurred, but returned in a short time, to find himself suddenly bereaved, by this dispensation of Providence, of a fond and devoted wife, whom he had left but a few minutes before, in full health, bright and joyous, and with every prospect of life and happiness in store for both. Mrs. Hunton was the daughter of the late Geo. Brent, esq., of this place, and was beloved and esteemed by all who knew her. The whole community deeply sympathize with her afflicted husband, relatives, and friends.—Alexandria Gazette of yesterday.