He pursued the problem like the sleuth-hound that he was . If Smee was lovable , what was it that made him so ? A terrible answer suddenly presented itself -- `` Good form ? '' Had the bo ` sun good form without knowing it , which is the best form of all ? He remembered that you have to prove you do n't know you have it before you are eligible for Pop -LSB- an elite social club at Eton -RSB- . With a cry of rage he raised his iron hand over Smee 's head ; but he did not tear . What arrested him was this reflection : `` To claw a man because he is good form , what would that be ? '' `` Bad form ! '' The unhappy Hook was as impotent -LSB- powerless -RSB- as he was damp , and he fell forward like a cut flower . His dogs thinking him out of the way for a time , discipline instantly relaxed ; and they broke into a bacchanalian -LSB- drunken -RSB- dance , which brought him to his feet at once , all traces of human weakness gone , as if a bucket of water had passed over him . `` Quiet , you scugs , '' he cried , `` or I 'll cast anchor in you ; '' and at once the din was hushed . `` 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 XXXXX 's instructions in the hold ; so Tootles stepped forward politely .
Eton Smee Wendy ay children colour scugs sleuth-hound sun to-night