PREFACE THIS book is intended for the use of pupils who have completed the work of the fourth reader grade. Such pupils have mastered most of the mechanical difficulties connected with reading, have acquired a taste for good literature, and are able to read with good expression. It is the purpose of this reader to continue, through the use of appropriate material, the training given in the earlier grades, and to aid in the development of the growing powers of the pupil. A Fifth Reader should lead boys and girls to a knowledge of the standard literary possessions of intelligent people. It is believed that this book offers unusual facilities of this kind, and in a way that will prove a delight both to teacher and pupil. Prominence has been given in the earlier part of the book to selections that appeal to the interests that are strongest among those who will read the selections for purposes of profit and instruction. At the same time, care has been taken to develop an appreciation of the beauties of form and expression. There are two principles of grading which should determine the order and development of a reading book. The first is based upon the difficulties of vocabulary and of sentence structure. The second has to do with the difficulties of the subject-matter itself, and with the maturity of mind needful for its appreciation. In grading 5 |