Gerald intended to keep the scorpions as pets.

Gerald's fascination with scorpions was evident from the beginning of the passage. He had been reading books about scorpions and had even caught a few in jars. When he found a large scorpion in his room, he saw it as an opportunity to add it to his collection of scorpions. Let's examine why Gerald intended to keep the scorpions as pets.

1. Gerald's interest in scorpions:
Gerald had been reading books about scorpions and had a keen interest in them. This interest led him to collect scorpions and keep them as pets. The fact that he had already caught and kept some scorpions in jars indicates his desire to have them as pets.

2. Gerald's reaction to finding the scorpion:
When Gerald found the scorpion in his room, he did not panic or try to get rid of it immediately. Instead, he carefully observed it and even described it to his sister. This shows that he saw the scorpion as a valuable addition to his collection rather than a threat.

3. Gerald's plan to create a scorpion habitat:
Gerald's plan to create a scorpion habitat further supports the idea that he intended to keep the scorpions as pets. He mentioned gathering sand, rocks, and twigs to recreate the scorpion's natural environment. This indicates his intention to provide a suitable habitat for the scorpions he planned to keep.

4. Gerald's disappointment at his mother's decision:
When Gerald's mother told him that he couldn't keep the scorpions as pets, Gerald was disappointed. This disappointment suggests that his initial intention was indeed to keep the scorpions as pets.

Overall, the passage provides clear evidence that Gerald intended to keep the scorpions as pets. His interest in scorpions, his reaction to finding the scorpion, his plan to create a scorpion habitat, and his disappointment at his mother's decision all point towards his desire to have the scorpions as pets.