Rollo in Rome

In this charming travelogue, a spirited boy named Rollo embarks on his first real adventure, the road from Naples to Rome alongside his Uncle George. Their mode of transport—a bustling Italian diligence—offers a vivid picture of 19th‑century coach travel, from the cramped interior to the lofty banquette where the duo finally settles. Abbott paints each compartment with humor and detail, comparing the Italian coach to its larger French cousins and the more familiar American stagecoach. The journey itself becomes a lesson in geography and etiquette as the pair prepares for the long night ahead.

Rollo’s curiosity soon turns the ticket’s fine print into a puzzle; he reads the Italian regulations aloud, discovering the strict schedule that will punish any tardiness. The narrative then drifts to the infamous Pontine Marshes, a damp, mosquito‑laden stretch that still haunts travelers with its reputation for illness. As the coach rolls onward, the boy learns to balance caution with wonder, anticipating the ancient landmarks that await in the Eternal City. Author’s humor and careful observations promise a blend of education and entertainment for listeners of all ages.