Nagaina was coiled up on the matting by Teddy 's chair , within easy striking distance of Teddy 's bare leg , and she was swaying to and fro , singing a song of triumph . `` Son of the big man that killed Nag , '' she hissed , `` stay still . I am not ready yet . Wait a little . Keep very still , all you three ! If you move I strike , and if you do not move I strike . Oh , foolish people , who killed my Nag ! '' Teddy 's eyes were fixed on his father , and all his father could do was to whisper , `` Sit still , Teddy . You must n't move . Teddy , keep still . '' Then Rikki-tikki came up and cried , `` Turn round , Nagaina . Turn and fight ! '' `` All in good time , '' said she , without moving her eyes . `` I will settle my account with you presently . Look at your friends , Rikki-tikki . They are still and white . They are afraid . They dare not move , and if you come a step nearer I strike . '' `` Look at your eggs , '' said Rikki-tikki , `` in the melon bed near the wall . Go and look , Nagaina ! ''
The big snake turned half around , and saw the egg XXXXX the veranda .
at by if in near nearer of on to within