How does Mr white word his first wish- monkeys paw?

Mr. White doesn't actually *word* his first wish in "The Monkey's Paw." He simply makes a silent wish while holding the paw. The story emphasizes the unspoken nature of the wish, adding to the suspense and mystery.

The text reads:

> "He looked at the paw, and then at his wife, whose face was white with fear. 'I don't know what to wish for, and I don't think I want anything very badly,' he said at last. 'Well, wish for something you can't lose, then,' she said. He sat down again, and with a deep sigh, made his wish."

It's only later in the story that we learn what he wished for, but the suspense and mystery are heightened because we don't know his wish until the consequences start unfolding.