It was a great temptation. It did seem such a pity to lose this opportunity; a chance, as Alan said, which might never occur again: though the children knew they were doing wrong, curiosity began to overcome them.
'I don't think it would be right,' answered Marjorie, with decision. 'We can see all we want from here.'
'I'm sure we can't,' said George, excitedly. 'Look at that dark corner. We don't know what is in there, but there is something, I'm sure.'
'Well, Marjorie,' said Alan, 'if you don't want to come in, don't. But you need not spoil sport for all the rest of us. You and I will go in, Estelle, and Marjorie can keep guard outside.'
'I wish I knew if I might!' cried Estelle, clasping her hands on the top of her head, and dancing up and down in despair. I really and truly believe Auntie only meant I was not to go in alone. Don't you think so, Marjorie?'
'No, I don't,' returned her cousin, quietly.
'What on earth does it matter?' cried Alan, impatiently. 'We are losing all our time and we shall have Peet or somebody down upon us in a minute. Come on, Estelle.'
But love for Aunt Betty still acted as a restraint, and though she put her foot on the threshold, she did not step over.
'I would like to—I would like to,' she exclaimed, torn between her conscience and her wishes, 'if—— '
She broke off, for Georgie was screaming in terror, 'The door—the door! Look at the door!'