130CT86 OXFORD. PREFACE. THIS Reading-Book is intended to be used, alternately with the ordinary School Reading-Books, in the three upper standards in Girls' Schools. It is hoped that it will meet a want, often felt by those who have the charge of the education of Girls, by supplying a connecting link between the mental training they receive at school, and the practical duties of a woman's life. EDINBURGH, Sept. 1875. GIRLS' READING-BOOK. INTRODUCTION. CHAPTER I.-ABOUT HOME. HOME is one of the most expressive words in the English language. It suggests many pleasing associations, with which all are or ought to be familiar. Among popular English songs, that of Home, sweet Home, is an especial favourite. Almost every one knows the introductory lines: "Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam, Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home!' In this simple song the sentiments conveyed go straight to the heart. Listeners secretly acknowledge, though they may not openly say, 'There's no place like home.' Those, most of all, who by misfortune have been deprived of homes, are apt to be touched by the words; tears rise in their eyes as they sadly listen to the melody. What is home, that evokes these emotions? Is it the house we live in, perhaps that in which we were born, and to which family love and fond memories are attached? Yes, this is what we call our Home, but Home is some |