"Blackbeard Joe."

Michael was naturally impressed. "What do you think, John?"
He wanted John to decide, and John wanted him to decide.

"Shall we still be respectful subjects of the King?" John
inquired.

Through Hook's teeth came the answer: "You would have to
swear, `Down with the King.'"

Perhaps John had not behaved very well so far, but he shone out
now.

"Then I refuse," he cried, banging the barrel in front of Hook.

"And I refuse," cried Michael.

"Rule Britannia!" squeaked Curly.

The infuriated pirates buffeted them in the mouth; and Hook
roared out, "That seals your doom. Bring up their mother. Get
the plank ready."

They were only boys, and they went white as they saw Jukes and
Cecco preparing the fatal plank. But they tried to look brave
when Wendy was brought up.