He entered the house, vexed by his disappointment and the uncomfortable plight he was in; and when his mother mildly reproved him for his conduct, and entreated him to be more careful of himself, he only replied that he did not wish to live, if he must be shut up in the house all the time.
This act of imprudence and disobedience made him a close prisoner in the house for several days, besides causing him no little suffering.
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.