10篇文章帮你搞定4级词汇(4)The Man And This Castle (II)_大学英语单词

10篇文章帮你搞定4级词汇(4)The Man And This Castle (II)

　　The complex was ready for occupancy in 1927, but additions continued until 1947. Eventually it comprised the main house and three cottages, all of which are furnished with a variety of valuable antiques. Even the lavatories were specially equipped. Williams favorite room was said to be the library with its collections of more than 5,000 books, ancient Greek vases, and an antique Spanish ceiling suspended by cables so it will sway in the event of an earthquake .

　　In the 20s, 30s and 40s, William lived part-time at the estate with his mistress, Marion Davies. They entertained to an excessive extent. To be invited to the castle was a privilege. Movie stars, politicians, businessmen, and even royalty were frequent guests. Many of these guests, including a British lord, Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith, Amelia Earhart, and Charles Lindbergh, flew to the ranch, landing on the private airstrip.

　　Life on the hill was never dull. The visitors stayed in the main house or the cottages, depending on their prominence or their intimacy with the family and were free to roam the grounds, go riding on their choice of horses from the stable, swim in the pools, or play golf on the private course on the property. Company was expected, however, to meet in the main drawing room at 7:30 p.m. sharp, principally to amuse their host. Dinner was a formal affair beginning at 9:00 p.m. This meal was held in the immense dining room, the walls of which are lined with priceless panels from ancient European cathedrals. Following dinner, movies were shown in the private theater, starting rules guests had to follow: do not get drunk; do not swear or tell off-color jokes; sleep in separate bedrooms. If you wanted to eat, you could visit the kitchen if you could find it.