“Let’s count three quickly, and then each say what we think!”
We counted, and the two words leapt crisply forth.
“Rose!” said I.
“Purple!” said Charmion. Then we looked at one another beneath puckered brows.
“Rose lights up better!”
“Purple is more uncommon.”
“Rose is more cheerful in winter!”
“Purple is restful in summer!”
It seemed for a moment as if we had reached an impasse, then came an illuminating thought.
“Why not—both? They harmonise well. Purple curtains and carpet—the plain colour, very soft and subdued, and cushions and shades of the right rose. With our united treasures we ought to have a lovely room. Where are your things, Charmion?”