There is a fine library connected with the Academy from which cadets can get books to read in their quarters.

I devoted more time to these, than to books relating to the course of studies.

Much of the time, I am sorry to say, was devoted to novels, but not those of a trashy sort.

I read all of Bulwer's then published, Cooper's, Marryat's, Scott's, Washington Irving's works, Lever's, and many others that I do not now remember.

Mathematics was very easy to me, so that when January came, I passed the examination, taking a good standing in that branch.