Don t irritate him unnecessarily, had been Wendy s instructions in
the hold; so Tootles stepped forward politely. Tootles hated the idea
of signing under such a man, but an instinct told him that it would be
prudent to lay the responsibility on an absent person; and though a
somewhat silly boy, he knew that mothers alone are always willing to be
the buffer. All children know this about mothers, and despise them for
it, but make constant use of it.
So Tootles explained prudently, You see, sir, I don t think my mother
would like me to be a pirate. Would your mother like you to be a
pirate, Slightly?
He winked at Slightly, who said mournfully, I don t think so, as if
he wished things had been otherwise. Would your mother like you to be
a pirate, Twin?
I don t think so, said the first twin, as clever as the others.
Nibs, would
Stow this gab, roared Hook, and the spokesmen were dragged back.
You, boy, he said, addressing John, you look as if you had a little
pluck in you. Didst never want to be a pirate, my hearty?
Now John had sometimes experienced this hankering at maths. prep.; and
he was struck by Hook s picking him out.
I once thought of calling myself Red-handed Jack, he said
diffidently.
And a good name too. We ll call you that here, bully, if you join.
What do you think, Michael? asked John.
What would you call me if I join? Michael demanded.
Blackbeard Joe.
Michael was naturally impressed. What do you think, John? He wanted
John to decide, and John wanted him to decide.
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