What do you say to it , mamma ? ' and papa looked much amused . ' I am willing to try it if you are , just for the fun of the thing , but I do n't think it will do any good ; ' and mamma shook her head as if Aunt Betsey 's plan was a wild one . The children sat quiet , speechless with surprise at this singular proposal , but as its full richness dawned upon them , they skipped in their chairs and clapped their hands delightedly . ` How do you propose to carry out this new educational frolic ? ' asked papa , beginning to feel some curiosity as to the part he was to play . ` Merely let the children do as they like for one day and have full power over you . Let them plan your duties and pleasures , order your food , fix your hours , and punish or reward you as they think proper . You must promise entire obedience , and keep the agreement till night . ' ` Good ! good ! Oh , wo n't it be fun ! ' cried Harry and Kitty , applauding enthusiastically ; while papa and mamma looked rather sober as the plan was developed before them . ` To-morrow is a holiday for us all , and we might celebrate it by this funny experiment . It will amuse us and do no harm , at any rate , ' added aunty , quite in love with her new scheme . ` Very well , we will . Come , mamma , let us promise , and see what these rogues will do for us . Playing father and mother is no joke , mind you ; but you will have an easier time of it than we do , for we shall behave ourselves , ' said papa , with a virtuous expression . Mamma agreed , and the supper ended merrily , for every one was full of curiosity as to the success of the new play . Harry and Kitty went to bed early , that they might be ready for the exciting labors of the next day .
Aunt XXXXX paid each a short visit before they slept , and it is supposed that she laid out the order of performances , and told each what to do ; for the little people would never have thought of so many sly things if left to themselves .
Betsey Harry Kitty aunty day harm hours love night obedience