said Tootles , and fell a-trembling . ` And we have killed her , ' Nibs said hoarsely . They all whipped off their caps . ` Now I see , ' Curly said ; ` Peter was bringing her to us . ' He threw himself sorrowfully on the ground . ' A lady to take care of us at last , ' said one of the twins , ` and you have killed her . ' They were sorry for him , but sorrier for themselves , and when he took a step nearer them they turned from him . 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 XXXXX dropped in front of them .
Nibs Peter Tootles Wendy a-trembling crow face ladies moment pity