"It's almost bed-time now," said King, glancing at the clock; "but I'm not a bit sleepy."
The others declared they were not, either, and they all went in search of their parents. They found them in the library, with Uncle Steve and Grandma, who were still visiting them.
"Sit the old year out!" exclaimed Mr. Maynard, when he heard their request. "Why, you're almost asleep now!"
"Oh, we're not a bit sleepy!" protested Marjorie. "Do, Daddy, dear, let us try it,—we never have, you know."
"Why, I've no objections, if Mother hasn't."
Mrs. Maynard looked as if she didn't think much of the plan, but Uncle
Steve broke in, saying:
"Oh, let them, of course! It can't do them any harm except to make them sleepy to-morrow, and they can nap all day if they like."
"Yes, let them do it," said Grandma, who was an indulgent old lady. "But
I'm glad I don't have to sit up with them."
"I too," agreed Mr. Maynard. "I used to think it was fun, but I've seen so many New Years come sneaking in, that it's become an old, old story."
"That's just it, sir," said King, seeing a point of vantage. "We haven't, you know, and we'd like to see just how they come in."