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 . ` Greeting , 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 crow ladies mouths pity return tidings