He appeared to be trying to recollect
something.
"Daddy, some things in the world seem so funny," he said, thoughtfully.
"I know that I used to like to play with Teddy Miles and Dick, hopscotch
and marbles, and relievo. Relievo is a very rough game, and marbles
makes one very dirty and dusty. Still, I know that I used to like to
play those games. I don't want to now a bit. I would rather read. If
you are busy, daddy, I shan't mind a bit. Please don't think that you
will have to play with me. I want to read, I shall be quite happy
reading all the time. Mr. Denschem has given me a list of books.
Perhaps you have some of them. If not, couldn't we get some out of a
library?"
Burton looked at the list which the boy produced, and groaned to
himself.
"My dear Alfred," he protested, "these books are for almost grown-up
people."
The boy smiled confidently.
"Mr. Denschem gave me the list, father," he repeated simply.
After lunch, Burton took the boy round to Mr. Waddington's office. Mr.
Waddington was deep in a book of engravings which he had just purchased.
He welcomed Burton warmly and gazed with surprise at the child.
"Alfred," his father directed, "go and sit in that easy-chair for a few
minutes.
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