"Does he get no better?"
"Not that I can see. Poor boy, he finds the time pass very heavily."
"I've brought him some books that will while away the hours."
"How kind you are! He will be beside himself with joy."
She led the way into a small room, with a faded carpet on the floor. A young boy with a merry look on his pale face lay on a lounge. He lifted his eyes, and they brightened as they met the gaze of the visitor.
"Oh, Mr. Marden, I'm so glad to see you!" he exclaimed.
"And I am glad to see you, Jimmy—a Happy New Year to you!"
"And you also, Mr. Marden."
"Thank you, Jimmy. Now, what do you think I have got in this big bundle?"
"Is it books?" asked the boy eagerly.