we saw just now, our own lives are so
near us and surround us so closely, that it is only by making an effort
that we can get out of them and understand other people's lives at all.
The only thing that can really make us do that is sympathy."

"What does that mean?"

"It is that which makes us able to put ourselves in thought into other
people's holes, and feel what it is like to live there. When we do that
it makes us remember to be patient and gentle with our friends and
companions, for if they live in uncomfortable holes it must be difficult
for them to be unselfish and amiable. If we had their troubles and
vexations we might not be half so pleasant as they are."

Betty was silent.

"Do you think Martha's hole and mine is nicer than Kitty's?" she said at
last.

"Well, I think in some ways it may be. At any rate you know Kitty has
no sisters to play with, and very little of this country life you all
enjoy so much. While her holiday lasts I should try to make it as
pleasant as possible for her, if I were you."

"I do," said Betty, "generally. Only sometimes she makes me feel so
cross."

At this moment up rushed Kitty, and elbowed Betty away from Miss Grey's
side.

"You've had her long enough!" she shouted. "It's my turn now!"

And Betty was thinking so much about the toad in the hole, that she did
not even frown.

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