Nor did they lack for books, for as it chanced there was a good library at Hawk's Hall, which had been formed by the previous owner and taken over like the pictures, when Mr.Blake bought the house.

Also it was added to constantly, as an order was given to a large London bookseller to supply all the important new works that came out.

Although he never opened a book himself, Sir John liked to appear intellectual by displaying them about the rooms for the benefit of his visitors.

These publications Isobel read and lent to Godfrey; indeed they perused a great deal which young people generally are supposed to leave alone, and this in various schools of thought, including those that are known as "free." It was seldom that such studies led to unanimity between them, but to argument, which sharpened their intellects, they did lead, followed invariably by a charitable agreement to differ.
About the time of the addition of the name of John Blake to the roll of British Chivalry, a book on Mars came their way--it was one by a speculative astronomer which suggests that the red planet is the home of reasoning beings akin to humanity.

Isobel read it and was not impressed.