Page:Smith - Number Stories of Long ago (1919).djvu/106

OF LONG AGO “I don't see why they ever used the ‘scratch method,’” said Fanny. “Why didn't they use our way at first?”

“Why didn’t they use electric lights instead of candles?” asked the Story-Teller, “and why didn't they have moving pictures and automobiles and airplanes?”

“Because they did not know about such things,” answered Fanny.

“That is just the reason. They did not know about electric lights and railways, and neither did they know our way of dividing. As to dividing by machinery, they had never even dreamed of such a thing. Now this is enough for to-night, so get off to bed.”

“But you have not mentioned the Question Box,” said the Tease.

“To bed,” growled the Story-Teller.

“You haven't told us how they divided with the Roman numerals,” said the Tease.

“How do you think they did?” half growled the Story-Teller, trying to keep from smiling.

“Counters,” said Charles.

“Right,” said the Story-Teller, “and it was so hard that few could do it. And now—”

“To bed!” laughed the Crowd. 81