The ceiling was supported like that of a barn, by crossbeams and rafters, and the walls were so stained and discolored that it was impossible to tell whether they had ever been touched by paint or whitewash.
"McGuffey's Fifth Eclectic Reader"
William Holmes McGuffey
Gabriel walked along holding on to one of the crossbeams, with his eyes fixed on the pilots, feeling on his legs the movements of those who pushed this scaffolding, so similar to the cars of Indian idols.
"The Shadow of the Cathedral"
Vicente Blasco Ibañez
The chief, who had climbed on the crossbeams of the house to escape the uproar and struggle, called out to the crowd below: "Stop fighting now; for I have a better gift than the one you have lost this night."
"Myths and Folk Tales of Ireland"
Jeremiah Curtin