When he paused, after telling her the number of books he had decided to begin with, she said: 'Mr.Grail does so look forward to it.

I'm sure nothing could have made him so happy.' Egremont was pleased with a note of sincerity, of self forgetfulness in these words.

He replied: 'I am very glad.

I know he'll be at home among books.

Are you fond of reading ?' 'Yes, sir.