All children know this about mothers, and despise them for it, but make constant use of it.
So Tootles explained prudently, "You see, sir, I don't think my mother would like me to be a pirate.

Would your mother like you to be a pirate, Slightly ?" He winked at Slightly, who said mournfully, "I don't think so," as if he wished things had been otherwise.

"Would your mother like you to be a pirate, Twin ?" "I don't think so," said the first twin, as clever as the others.

"Nibs, would--" "Stow this gab," roared Hook, and the spokesmen were dragged back.

"You, boy," he said, addressing John, "you look as if you had a little pluck in you.