In the first reading they were going through an unknown forest, and with each successive reading they were retracing their steps and exploring the trail in minute detail and becoming thoroughly acquainted with the surrounding country.
This may seem very improbable and unnatural to the boy whose studies are enforced and, because they are compulsory, appeal to him as tedious duties which he must perform.

But nevertheless it was very natural.
Human nature is obstinate and contrary.

Tom Sawyer's friends derived much pleasure from whitewashing the fence, and even paid for the privilege.

Had their parents set them to whitewashing fences they would have found it irksome work, and anything but play.
Bobby, indeed, had developed two distinct personalities.

In his every-day living he was decidedly an Eskimo; but of long winter evenings, reading or studying Skipper Ed's books, at home in Abel's cabin, or in one of the easy chairs in Skipper Ed's cabin, when Skipper Ed explained to him and Jimmy the things they read, Bobby was as far removed from his Eskimo personality as could be.
Abel and Mrs.Abel never wavered in their belief that God had sent Bobby to them from the Far Beyond, through the place where mists and storms were born.