The children could not explain very well , but Harry said slowly , -- ` If you were to be in our places for a day you 'd see what we mean . ' ` Would n't it be worth your while to try the experiment ? ' said Aunt Betsey , with a smile . Papa and mamma laughed at the idea , but looked sober when aunty added , -- ` Why not put yourselves in their places for a day and see how you like it ? I think you would understand the case better than any one could describe it , and perhaps do both yourselves and the children a lasting service . ' ` Upon my word , that 's a droll idea ! 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 XXXXX , quite in love with her new scheme .
Betsey Harry Kitty aunty day experiment holiday hours idea night