companionship of books

  A good book may be among the best of friends.

  It is the same today that it always was,and it will never change.

  It is the most patient and cheerful of companions.

  It does not turn its back upon us in times of adversity or distress.

  It always receives us with the same kindness;amusing and instructing us in youth,and comforting and consoling us in age.