Tootles face was very white, but there was a dignity about him now
that had never been there before.
I did it, he said, reflecting. When ladies used to come to me in
dreams, I said, Pretty mother, pretty mother. But when at last she
really came, I shot her.
He moved slowly away.
Don t go, they called in pity.
I must, he answered, shaking; I am so afraid of Peter.
It was at this tragic moment that they heard a sound which made the
heart of every one of them rise to his mouth. They heard Peter crow.
Peter! they cried, for it was always thus that he signalled his
return.
Hide her, they whispered, and gathered hastily around Wendy. But
Tootles stood aloof.
Again came that ringing crow, and Peter dropped in front of them.
Greetings, boys, he cried, and mechanically they saluted, and then
again was silence.
He frowned.
I am back, he said hotly, why do you not cheer?
They opened their mouths, but the cheers would not come. He overlooked
it in his haste to tell the glorious tidings.
Great news, boys, he cried, I have brought at last a mother for you
all.
Still no sound, except a little thud from Tootles as he dropped on his
knees.
57