“Gentlemen,” he began, “we are here this semester—your last—to continue your study of English. I know we shall enjoy learning with—and from— one another. We are going to learn something about journalism and how to get out your weekly school paper. Most important, we are going to try to really get interested in reading and writing. Those who do, I venture to say, will lead far richer, fuller lives than they would otherwise.” He went on like that, voicing a welcome message of friendliness and understanding. An unexpected feeling of excitement stirred in me. Question: What did Mr. Stone think of the importance of people's interest in reading and writing?