Maggie found that her bedroom was a room at the top of the house, very white and clean, with a smell of soot and tallow candle that was new and attractive.There was a large text in bright purple over the bed--"The Lord cometh; prepare ye the way of the Lord." From the window one saw roofs, towers, chimneys, a sweeping arc of sky-lights now spun and sparkled into pathways and out again, driven by the rumble behind them that never ceased, although muffled by the closed window.
They talked together for a little while, standing near the window, the candle wavering in Aunt Elizabeth's unsteady hand.
"We thought you'd like this top room.It's quieter than the rest of the house.Sometimes when the sweep hasn't been the soot tumbles down the chimney.You mustn't mind that.Thomas will push open the door and walk in at times.It's his way.""Thomas?" said Maggie bewildered.
"Our cat.He has been with us for many years now.Those who know say that he might have taken prizes once.I can't tell I'm sure.If you pull that bell when you want anything Martha will come.She will call you at half-past seven; prayers are in the dining-room at a quarter past eight.Sometimes the wind blows through the wall-paper, but it is only the wind."Maggie drew back the curtains that hid the glitter of the lights.
"Were those great friends of yours, those gentlemen this evening?""The one who wears spectacles, Mr.Magnus--yes, he is a very old friend.He is devoted to my sister.He writes stories.""What, in the papers?"
"No, in books.Two every year."