文章大意:这是一篇记叙文。67岁的英国人罗伊·帕特里克在意大利从事古董交易。帕特里克以16500美元的价格在卡雷加山村买了一栋旧校舍。本文介绍了这既冒险又有趣的经过。
Italy’s cheap old homes continue to appeal to hundreds of interested buyers, among whom was Roy Patrick, a 67-year-old British who deals in antiques in Italy. Patrick bought an old school house in the mountain village of Carrega for $16,500. It’s both an adventure and a joy.
Patrick bought the property quite by accident. When told about the wonders of the village, he toured there to take a look and was instantly struck by the 1930s school building. “The house is particular and the view is unique: The way the sun goes down over the mountains, you’d say ‘wow’. It’s a fantastic wonderland,” says Patrick.
The property was offloaded by the local government to boost the populations of communities in decline. Since the purchase, he’s been visiting every two weeks and finds it has many charms. “Top of the list is the friendliness of the local residents, followed by the breathtaking views I get out of the windows looking across the valley,” he adds.
Patrick’s initial encounter with his new home was less than promising. He had to climb through a window to open up the building, which had been shut for decades and whose door was jammed, with the keys nowhere to be found.
However, a later structural disaster turned into a positive story. When an unstable chimney (烟囱) collapsed due to a heavy snow, a neighbor volunteered to climb onto his roof to make it safe. The locals are so welcoming that they are ready to help newcomers.
During the restoration needed to make the old school habitable, Patrick unexpectedly unearthed a great many treasures: dusty piles of old text books, inkwells, pupil registers and other historical items.
Patrick has some advice for those with the thought of buying a house in Carrega: There is absolutely nothing, just great views, pure air and clean surroundings. No bars, supermarkets, or restaurants. A vehicle is essential to move around. However, Carrega does spring to life in the summer when vacationers arrive to relax. “There are nights when people throw a party with loud music,” says Patrick. “Otherwise it’s just singing birds and total silence.”
4. What led to Patrick’s purchase of the old schoolhouse?
A.The locals’ friendly attitude. | B.Its location and rising value. |
C.Its uniqueness and surroundings. | D.The government’s housing welfare. |
5. What was the government’s intention of selling the property?
A.To attract more settlers. | B.To boost local tourism. |
C.To preserve village traditions. | D.To reform education system. |
6. What’s one of Patrick’s added bonuses of getting the house?
A.Acquiring more personal space. | B.Digging up some historical finds. |
C.Enjoying a more active social life. | D.Getting free home decoration service. |
7. How does it feel most of the time living in Carrega?
A.Quiet. | B.Lively. |
C.Modern. | D.Convenient. |