 In Johnson 's will , Molly is referred to as his " housekeeper " , which at the time meant that she ran the household , served as hostess , and supervised the female servants and slaves . According to the historian Barbara Graymont , " Mary Brant presided over Johnson 's household with intelligence , ability , grace , and charm , and she effectively managed the estate during Johnson 's many and prolonged absences . " Johnson and Brant 's relationship was public ; she received gifts and thank @-@ you notes from prominent visitors such as Lord Adam Gordon . Johnson used his connection with Brant to further his public and private dealings with the Iroquois . Brant 's role as Johnson 's domestic and political partner was well known . " Before the age of forty , " writes <unk> and Pulis , " she was already a legendary figure .... " 
