They took them for great birds , the white sails for their wings , and the Spaniards for superior beings brought down from heaven on their backs . '' `` Why , that 's Columbus finding San Salvador . Do n't you know about him ? '' demanded Bab , as if she were one of the `` superior beings , '' and intimately acquainted with the immortal Christopher . `` No , I do n't . Who was he any way ? I s ` pose that 's him paddlin ' ahead ; but which of the Injuns is Sam Salvindoor ? '' asked Ben , rather ashamed of his ignorance , but bent on finding out now he had begun . `` My gracious ! twelve years old and not know your Quackenbos ! '' laughed Bab , much amused , but rather glad to find that she could teach the `` whirligig boy '' something , for she considered him a remarkable creature . `` I do n't care a bit for your quackin ' boss , whoever he is . Tell about this fine feller with the ships ; I like him , '' persisted Ben . So Bab , with frequent interruptions and hints from Betty , told the wonderful tale in a simple way , which made it easy to understand ; for she liked history , and had a lively tongue of her own . `` I 'd like to read some more . Would my ten cents buy a book ? '' asked Ben , anxious to learn a little since Bab laughed at him . `` No , indeed ! I 'll lend you mine when I 'm not using it , and tell you all about it , '' promised Bab ; forgetting that she did not know `` all about it '' herself yet . `` I do n't have any time only evenings , and then may be you 'll want it , '' begun Ben , in whom the inky page had roused a strong curiosity .
`` I do get my XXXXX in the evening , but you could have it mornings before school . ''
birds feller hints history ignorance interruptions sails tale time tongue