The furniture was draped for the season in cool-colored chintz.

There was a straw matting upon the floor.

The chandeliers and candelabras were covered with muslin, and heavy muslin curtains hung over the windows.

The tables and chairs were of a clumsy old-fashioned pattern, with feet in the form of claws clasping balls, and a generally stiff, stately, and uncomfortable air.
The fire-place was covered by a heavy painted fire-board.

The polished brass andirons, which seemed to feel the whole weight of responsibility in supporting the family dignity, stood across the hearth, belligerently bright, and there were sprays of asparagus in a china vase in front of them.