Then they were taken to their rooms, and Patty exclaimed with delight at the pleasant apartment reserved for them.
“At last I’ve found something different,” she cried. “This isn’t a bit like our apartments in London or Paris. Oh, Nan, do see this gorgeous gold furniture in our drawing-room! I’m sure the Queen has lent it for our use while we’re here!”
“Grand, but stuffy,” declared Nan, as she threw off her travelling cloak.
“I like it,” said Patty; “it’s the first effect of Roman luxury I’ve seen. Do we lie on couches to eat, father?”
“You may if you like, my dear; though I believe it isn’t done much this year, in the best circles.”
Patty went on exploring, and was greatly pleased with the novelty of her new surroundings. There was a grand drawing-room, furnished with heavy velvet hangings and carpets; massive furniture, carved, gilded and upholstered in rich brocatelles; immense crystal chandeliers; elaborate mirrors, pictures and bric-à-brac; and a profusion of palms, statuettes, footstools and sofa pillows.
From this opened a small breakfast-room, also lavishly decorated and furnished. The bed-rooms, dressing-rooms, and baths were all in harmonious style, and after a tour of the rooms, Patty declared herself quite satisfied with the modern Roman notions of living.
“And only think,” said Mr. Fairfield, “the price we pay for all this gorgeousness is not so much as we paid for far simpler accommodations in Paris or London either.”
“Oh, let’s live in Rome always, then,” cried Patty, enthusiastically, “I love it already.”