"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."