At Christmas, she’d been much too preoccupied with the glamor and festivities of the holidays and people. But now, having been summoned for a private dinner, Carolina took the time to study every detail. Overhead, the opulent gilt-bronze chandelier cast down a warm glow. Carolina was notably impressed with the Pierre Antoine Bel-lange furniture. It was said that the Frenchman had created the gilded furniture for President Monroe because ordinary mahogany was not suitable for even a gentleman’s house. Carolina smiled, remembering the vast quantities of mahogany at Oakbridge. Perhaps it was a different time, she reasoned, and followed her brother through the doors and into a room of red damask. The Red Room was a lovely parlor and music room, and it was here that President Jackson greeted York and Carolina with warm regard. “I’m so glad you could come. We have a rare night together. Mr. Van Buren is away with family and won’t be joining us for dinner. Also, I have dismissed numerous dignitaries and holiday well-wishers in order to have a bit of peace and quiet.
