Upstairs they went, to the pretty guest room that had been appointed for Miss Larkin’s use, during her stay with the Maynards. Many hands make light work, and soon the room was transformed.
From a dainty, well-appointed chamber, it changed to the appearance of a holiday bazaar of some sort.
Garlands of greens, stuck full of pink roses, wreathed the mirrors and pictures. Wreaths or nosegays were pinned to the lace curtains, tied to the brass bedposts, and set around on bureau, tables, mantel, and wherever a place could be found. The Maynard children had no notion of moderation, and with them, to do anything at all, usually meant to overdo it, unless restrained by older heads and hands.
“I think streamers are pretty,” said Marjorie. “Let’s tie our best sashes on these big bouquets.”
“Oh, yes,” said Kitty, “and some hair-ribbons, too.”
A hasty visit to their bedroom resulted in many ribbons and sashes, which were soon fluttering gracefully from wreaths, bedposts, and chair-backs.
“We must have a ‘Welcome’ somewhere,” said King, as he stood, with his hands in his pockets, admiring the results of their labors.
“There’s a great big ‘Welcome’ sign, up in the attic,” said Kitty; “the one we had for a transparency when the Governor came, you know.”
“Oh, I know!” cried King. “That big white muslin thing, with black letters. I’ll get it.”
He raced away to the attic, and soon came back with the big painted sign.