"Their hearts leaped for joy at the sight. "Before morning came, a sailor saw the shore in the distance by the light of the moon. "Children," said Uncle Sam solemnly, "never forget that it was the 12th of October of the year 1492 that Columbus first stepped upon the shores of the New World. He was dressed in a full suit of steel armor and he held the royal banner of Spain as he landed on the island which he named San Salvador. "He planted the cross of the Christians and, with his officers and men around him, knelt down to thank God for His great goodness in bringing them so far in safety. "'How beautiful, how beautiful!' Columbus exclaimed as he looked about him. Tall palm trees were moving gently in the warm breeze; strange and lovely flowers were growing all around; birds of bright colors flew overhead. "But these were not the only things to fill the brave sailor with wonder. He and his men were soon surrounded by strange-looking people. They had straight black hair and dark red skins. They wore little or no clothing. "'This is India, without a doubt,' said Columbus, 'and these people are Indians.' "He noticed the gold ornaments in their ears and he thought with delight of the treasures he would carry back to Spain to good Queen Isabella. "The Red Men were as much surprised as the Spaniards. They whispered to each other, 'These white beings must be gods come from the heavens to visit us.' "Then they pointed to the ships and said, 'The great birds that have brought them to us are now floating on the water.' "The Indians wished to show honor to their visitors. They hurried to their simple homes and gathered grains and fruits. They brought them as presents to the Spaniards. "The white men were glad to receive the corn, cotton, and fruits. They feasted on the delicious cocoanuts and bananas, yet they were not satisfied. Gold was what they most wanted. When they asked the Indians where to find it, the savages pointed towards the south." "I am glad Columbus wasn't a Spaniard," said Joe, who had kept still a long time for a lively boy. "I just hate the Spaniards. I believe all they care for is riches. It's a good thing we beat them in the last war." "My dear child," replied Uncle Sam, "You should hate no one. We may thank the Spaniards for one thing at least. If it had not been for them, Columbus might never have been able to cross the ocean and discover America. You must remember they gave him the ships and money he needed." "It was the good Queen Isabella," said Joe, "and she didn't seem at all like the rest of her people. But please excuse me for interrupting you, Uncle Sam." "That is all right, Joe. It shows you are a good listener. Now we will go back to Columbus resting among the palm trees. "I am sure you children would have loved him. He had bright, keen eyes, yet they were kind and loving; and he moved about with the air of a king."