A few of Mr. Sinclair 's books had been saved for the boys , and were stored in a little box in their room . The book Frank referred to was an old History of the Turks , and its gay cover was probably the best of it , since its contents were of no particular merit . On Ernest 's birthday both boys gave him their offerings after breakfast . `` Here 's a pottet-knife for you , '' said Danny graciously . `` It 's a bully pottet-knife . It 'll cut real well if you hold it dust the wight way . I 'll show you . '' `` And here 's a book for you , '' said Frank . `` It 's a real pretty book , and I guess it 's pretty interesting reading too . It 's all about the Turks . '' Ernest accepted both gifts gravely , and after the children had gone out he and his mother had a hearty laugh . `` The dear , kind-hearted little lads ! '' said Mrs. Duncan . `` It must have been a real sacrifice on Danny 's part to give you his beloved ` pottet-knife . ' I was afraid you were going to refuse it at first , and that would have hurt his little feelings terribly . I do n't think the History of the Turks will keep you up burning the midnight oil . I remember that book of old -- I could never forget that gorgeous cover . Mr. Sinclair lent it to your father once , and he said it was absolute trash . Why , Ernest , what 's the matter ? '' Ernest had been turning the book 's leaves over carelessly .
Suddenly he sprang XXXXX his feet with an exclamation , his face turning white as marble .
after at for if in of out over since to