Iterary Text: Historical Fiction Read this passage. Then, answer the question(s).

(1) It was a fine harbor, well protected from the sea, yet with the sea easily reachable through navigable waters. (2) The vessel sailed for the Dutch West India Company, its mission to purchase from the natives a base from which to conduct company trade. (3) The best location, it was decided, was the tip of the hilly island the natives called Manna-hata. (4) Dutch being unfamiliar to the natives, the captain employed broken French and a great deal of sign language to arrange for the purchase. (5) For goods worth only about sixty Dutch guilders—cloth, kettles, knives, shirts—he concluded what he thought was a splendid bargain, acquiring the island for the company.

(6) The Tall One spoke as best he could to the strangers from across the waters. (7) "I know my people's love of the land. I hear your words, but I do not think you share this love. (8) When you speak, I hear only your want. (9) I hear only your need. (10) Your need is for a place to hunt. (11) Your want is for a promise of safety. (12) For this, you make offerings. (13) Very well. (14) There is enough here to share. (15) I accept your offerings, and I welcome you in peace." (16) He did not understand why later they expected him and his people to leave the area.

Which meaning of the word base is used in sentence 2?
A. a supporting foundation
B. a center of operations
C. a sand-filled bag
D. a main ing