In regard to this subject there are very different methods now in practice in different schools.

In some, especially in very small schools, the teacher allows the pupils to act according to their own discretion.

They whisper and leave their seats whenever they think it necessary.

This plan may possibly be admissible in a very small school, that is, in one of ten or twelve pupils.

I am convinced, however, that it is a very bad plan even here.
No vigilant watch which it is possible for any teacher to exert will prevent a vast amount of mere talk entirely foreign to the business of the school.