I hid the long black bag in the garage (车库). Tonight, in the dark. If everything went OK, I would carry out my secret project. But I had to be sure that no one, not even my wife, saw me. 

It was more difficult to get away from the party than I expected. I made an excuse that the children were tired and needed to get to bed. It was partly true. Of course the main reason for leaving was to complete my plan. 

Then I had to get the kids to sleep. That was never easy at any time and tonight it was even more difficult. The eldest one wanted to know why we left the party early. I told him 10: 30 p. m. was not early. As usual, I read them a bed time story, but I had to stop myself reading too quickly in case that they would learn my secret. 

Silence finally came, and feeling like a thief in the night, I went out of the house and into the garage. Taking one end, I dragged the bag out from its hiding place and took it into the garden. I was worried that my neighbors might find me and call the police. It was already eleven o'clock. By the light of the moon I started working, trying to make as little noise as possible. In fact, that was not easy with a saw (锯子) and a hammer (锤子).

After much hard work, I finally completed my work. I looked down at my watch. It was exactly 4: 00 am. I went inside to have a shower and get a few hours of sleep, with great satisfaction. 

It was long before the kids would rush into my room and woke me up. They were so thrilled, racing to tell me, "Daddy! Santa Claus brought us a lovely tree house this year." Seeing their excitement on their faces, I knew it's worthwhile for me to do it.