PREFACE. The ability to read well is one of the greatest accomplishments. To read well, it is necessary that the pupil should understand thoroughly the meaning of the author; he should make himself master of the thought expressed upon the printed page. The Fifth Reader has been prepared with the idea that the pupil has already mastered elementary reading and is prepared to enter upon the higher forms of written language. With this idea in view, selections have been made from the best authors in history, biography, fiction, travels, etc. In numerous instances, the selections have been adapted or abridged, without, however, impairing their literary value. Explanatory notes have been prepared on several selections. It is suggested that supplementary explanation from the teacher would prove interesting to the pupils. Especially is this the case in selections taken from some of our standard works of fiction. The aim of the compiler has been to present to the pupil interesting and useful facts, and to stimulate an interest in the best authors as well as to increase his vocabulary and improve him in the art of expression. The editors desire to express their thanks to several friends, who, by criticism and suggestion, have rendered valuable aid in the preparation of this work, as well as to "Ladies' Home Journal," Philadelphia, Pa.; Silver, Burdett & Co., Boston, Mass.; G. P. Putnam's Sons, New York, N. Y.; "The Outlook," New York, N. Y.; Houghton, Mifflin & Co., Boston, Mass.; Harper & Bros., New York, N. Y.; N. D. Thompson Publishing Co., St. Louis, Mo.; "Youth's Companion,' Boston, Mass.; Gay Brothers & Co., Hartford, Conn.; G. W. Dillingham Co., New York, N. Y. ; A. J. Holman & Co., Philadelphia, Pa.; Thos. Y. Crowell & Co., Boston, who have generously allowed the use of copyright matter. |
