She was also the sister-in-law of Philadelphia judge Joseph Hemphill, one of Buchanan's colleagues. By 1819, the two were engaged, but spent little time together. Buchanan was busy with his law firm and political projects during the Panic of 1819, which took him away from Coleman for weeks at a time. Rumors abounded, as some suggested that he was marrying her only for money; others said he was involved with other (unidentified) women. Letters from Coleman revealed she was aware of several rumors.[109] She broke off the engagement, and soon afterward, on December 9, 1819, suddenly died.[110] Buchanan wrote to her father for permission to attend the funeral, which was refused.[111]

William Rufus DeVane King, Buchanan's roommate and speculated partner
After Coleman's death, Buchanan never courted another woman. At the time of her funeral, he said that, "I feel happiness has fled from me forever."[112] During his presidency, an orphaned niece, Harriet Lane, whom he had adopted, served as official White House hostess.[113] There was an unfounded rumor that he had an affair with President Polk's widow, Sarah Childress Polk.[114]
Buchanan's lifelong bachelorhood after Anne Coleman's death has drawn interest and speculation.