How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Now, when Karait was killed, the big man had a stick. He may have that stick still, but when he comes in to bathe in the morning he will not have the stick. I shall wait here till he comes. Nagaina—do you hear me?—I shall wait here in the cool till daytime." (58)
Nag is a dangerous snake, but he isn't brave. He waits to sneak attack the father. This is a major difference between Nag and Rikki-tikki's personalities. (Also, the whole mammal / reptile thing, too. Talk about specieist.)
Quote #8
"Nag is dead—is dead—is dead!" sang Darzee. "The valiant Rikki-tikki caught him by the head and held fast. The big man brought the bang-stick and Nag fell in two pieces! He will never eat my babies again." (66)
It's easy to be brave and sing songs when you're not the one doing the fighting. Once again a not-so-brave character points out how courageous Rikki-tikki is.
Quote #9
"Yes, you will go away, and you will never come back; for you will go to the rubbish-heap with Nag. Fight, widow! The big man has gone for his gun! Fight!" (98)
Nagaina offers Rikki-tikki a way out of the fight, but he won't take it. We don't know if Rikki-tikki's refusal makes him cold-hearted, reckless, or courageous, but that speech is certainly action-hero worthy.