`` Are all the children chained , so that they can not fly away ? '' `` Ay , ay . '' `` Then hoist them up . '' The wretched prisoners were dragged from the hold , all except Wendy , and ranged in line in front of him . For a time he seemed unconscious of their presence . He lolled at his ease , humming , not unmelodiously , snatches of a rude song , and fingering a pack of cards . Ever and anon the light from his cigar gave a touch of colour to his face . `` Now then , bullies , '' he said briskly , `` six of you walk the plank to-night , but I have room for two cabin boys . Which of you is it to be ? '' `` Do n'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 do n'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 do n't think so , '' as if he wished things had been otherwise . `` Would your mother like you to be a pirate , Twin ? '' `` I do n'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 XXXXX had sometimes experienced this hankering at maths .
Ay Didst John Nibs Wendy colour first idea snatches to-night