Oscar employed much of his leisure time in reading, during his confinement in-doors. His acquaintances lent him many interesting books, with which he beguiled the weary hours. One day, happening to think of a volume belonging to his classmate, Benjamin Wright, which he thought he should like to read, he sent word by Ralph that he wished to borrow it. The next morning Benjamin brought it to school, and Ralph took it home to Oscar. On removing the paper in which it was wrapped up, a letter dropped out, which Oscar found was directed to himself. He opened it, and a smile lit up his countenance as he glanced over the sheet, which was filled up with drawings and writing of an amusing character. Benjamin was quite famous among the boys for the skill and facility with which he made sketches, and in this letter he had given a curious specimen of his artistic talent. The following is a copy of this production:
DEAR OSCAR:
I am sorry to hear you 're in weakness and pain,
And I send you a book to beguile your tired brain;
I send also some puzzles, to stir up your wit,
And tempt you to laugh, when you really don't feel like it one bit!
[Illustration: A Queer Name.]
What a queer name!
What do we all do when we first get into bed?
Why is swearing like an old coat?
What is that which is lengthened by being cut at both ends?
My first, if you do, you won't hit;
My second, if you do, you will have it;
My whole, if you do, you won't guess it.