Even Slightly tried to tell a story that night , but the beginning was so fearfully dull that it appalled not only the others but himself , and he said happily : `` Yes , it is a dull beginning . I say , let us pretend that it is the end . '' And then at last they all got into bed for Wendy 's story , the story they loved best , the story Peter hated . Usually when she began to tell this story he left the room or put his hands over his ears ; and possibly if he had done either of those things this time they might all still be on the island . But to-night he remained on his stool ; and we shall see what happened . Chapter 11 WENDY 'S STORY `` Listen , then , '' said Wendy , settling down to her story , with Michael at her feet and seven boys in the bed . `` There was once a gentleman -- '' `` I had rather he had been a lady , '' Curly said . `` I wish he had been a white rat , '' said Nibs . `` Quiet , '' their mother admonished -LSB- cautioned -RSB- them . `` There was a lady also , and -- '' `` Oh , mummy , '' cried the first twin , `` you mean that there is a lady also , do n't you ? She is not dead , is she ? '' `` Oh , no . '' `` I am awfully glad she is n't dead , '' said Tootles . `` Are you glad , John ? '' `` Of course I am . '' `` Are you glad , Nibs ? '' `` Rather . '' `` Are you glad , Twins ? '' `` We are glad . '' `` Oh dear , '' sighed Wendy .
`` Little less noise there , '' XXXXX called out , determined that she should have fair play , however beastly a story it might be in his opinion .
John Michael Nibs Peter Tootles Wendy first left night to-night