Once Tootles began, which was not very often, he had a silly way of
going on.
As I can t be father, he said heavily, I don t suppose, Michael, you
would let me be baby?
No, I won t, Michael rapped out. He was already in his basket.
As I can t be baby, Tootles said, getting heavier and heavier and
heavier, do you think I could be a twin?
No, indeed, replied the twins; it s awfully difficult to be a twin.
As I can t be anything important, said Tootles, would any of you
like to see me do a trick?
No, they all replied.
Then at last he stopped. I hadn t really any hope, he said.
The hateful telling broke out again.
Slightly is coughing on the table.
The twins began with cheese-cakes.
Curly is taking both butter and honey.
Nibs is speaking with his mouth full.
I complain of the twins.
I complain of Curly.
I complain of Nibs.
Oh dear, oh dear, cried Wendy, I m sure I sometimes think that
spinsters are to be envied.
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