At the end of the garden was the summer-house that is still carefully treasured, being octagonal in shape, with carved pilasters, bell-shaped roof, and cupola surmounted by a winged Mercury that swings with the breeze, and was used as a weather-vane. This figure is a fine piece of carving that stands nearly five feet high. The summer-house stood on an artificial mound, within which was a walled cellar which was entered by a trap-door, adding great mystery to the structure. Tradition states that this was a prison for slaves, but it is more practical if less romantic to believe that it was used for storage purposes. This summer-house, with its arched windows and the tender sentiments scratched upon the woodwork, was a pleasant place in all weathers except the more severe.
Plate LXXIX.—Doorway, Royall House.
The architecture of the house is interesting. The doorway on the east is the true entrance door, showing Corinthian columns, while the Georgian porch at the west, supporting Ionic columns, is also considered a fine bit of architecture.
There can be but little doubt that a house showing the dignity of exterior of the Royall house must have equally good interior woodwork. One realizes before opening the colonial door that he will see inside a fine old staircase, richly carved newel-post and balusters. The carving in this house as well as others of its type is not confined to the capitals that adorn its architraves.
Plate LXXX.—Hallway from the Rear, Royall House.
The long hallway extends the entire length of the house, with doors at either end. The stairway is on the eastern side facing the entrance, and is approached through an arch showing fine hand-carving. The balusters are carved in three different designs, while the newel-post is a combination of the three, one carved within the other. The staircase leads by low treads to the second-story floor. It is made under the old stair-builders' rule: