When children stand quiet thez have done some ill?

The phrase suggests that when children are unusually quiet, it often indicates that they are up to something mischievous or have engaged in behavior that may not be appropriate. Their silence can be a sign of guilt or an awareness of wrongdoing, as they might be attempting to hide their actions. This idea reflects a common perception that children, when left unsupervised, may find ways to test boundaries and explore their environment, sometimes leading to trouble.