It is that which appeals to us.

If they were sullen and dissatisfied we wouldn't care; but, John, you and I have each been blessed with model sons, and they are entitled to privileges which it would not be safe to grant to other boys.

I confess I feel like sending both out to Wyoming for an outing." "Of course it would spoil the enjoyment of Jack unless he could take Fred with him, but what excuse shall we make, Doc ?" How reluctant a father is to appear weak and too conciliatory toward his child! These two men had virtually decided to grant the fervent wish of their sons, but it must be done in a common-sense way.

They could not say "Boys, since you have set your hearts on this we grant it," but they must fix upon some scheme that would made it seem a necessity that they should go thither.
And now observe how ludicrously similar their thoughts were to those that were agitating their offspring up stairs.
"I have been thinking," observed the physician, "of suggesting to them that they are in need of an extension of their vacation; but what a farce it would be! School opens next Monday, and they are the types of rugged health, strength and activity.

If I undertook to make such a proposition I couldn't keep my face straight, and I am sure both would burst out laughing." "I know _I_ should, if I were present." "Parents must not make dunces of themselves before their children," was the philosophical remark of the physician; "some other plan must be adopted." Mr.Dudley leaned forward in his chair and slapped the shoulder of the physician, his face aglow.
"I have it, Doc!" "Let me hear it, for I admit that I am cornered." "I will take the ground that, since I have become part owner of this large tract of land, my first duty is to learn the truth about it.