"I always bring books with me, Herbert," said the young man. "I am
very fond of reading, and hitherto I have occupied too much time,
perhaps, in that way--too much, because it has interfered with
necessary exercise. Hereafter I shall devote my forenoon to some
kind of outdoor exercise in your company, and in the afternoon you
can read to me, or we can converse."

"Shall I read to you now, Mr. Melville?" asked Herbert.

"Yes; here is a recent magazine. I will select an article for you to
read. It will rest my eyes, and besides it is pleasanter to have a
companion than to read one's self."

The article was one that interested Herbert as well as Mr. Melville,
and he was surprised when he had finished to find that it was nearly
five o'clock.

"Didn't the reading tire you, Herbert?" asked Melville.

"No, sir; not at all."

"It is evident that your lungs are stronger than mine."

At five o'clock Melville dismissed his young companion.

"Do you wish me to come this evening?" asked Herbert.

"Oh, no. I wouldn't think of taking up your evenings."

"At the post office I had to stay till eight o'clock."