"What a fine library you have, Oscar!" he exclaimed.
"I have a few books," said Oscar. "My father filled a couple of
boxes, and sent me. He has a large library."
"This seems a large library to me," said Harry. "My father likes
reading, but he is poor, and cannot afford to buy books."
He said that in a matter-of-fact tone, without the least attempt to
conceal what many boys would have been tempted to hide. Oscar noted
this, and liked his new friend the better for it.
"Yes," he said, "books cost money, and one hasn't always the money to
spare."
"Have you read all these books?"
"Not more than half of them. I like reading better than studying, I
am afraid. I am reading the Waverley novels now. Have you read any
of them?"
"So; I never saw any of them before."
"If you see anything you would like to read, I will lend it to you
with pleasure," said Oscar, noticing the interest with which Harry
regarded the books.
"Will you?" said Harry, eagerly. "I can't tell you how much obliged
I am. I will take good care of it."
"Oh, I am sure of that. Here, try Ivanhoe. I've just read it, and
it's tip-top."
"Thank you; I will take it on your recommendation. What a nice room
you have!"
"Yes, it's pretty comfortable. Father told me to fix it up to suit
me. He said he wouldn't mind the expense if I would only study."
"I should think anybody might study in such a room as this, and with
such a fine collection of books.
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