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 . `` Do n'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 XXXXX as he dropped on his knees .
Peter Tootles Wendy boys cheers crow heart mouths return tidings