Is it fair to have Jim serve as a spy? Why or why not? Would you be willing to do it, knowing the kind of men these pirates are< why or why not?

Generally, I'd say it's difficult to picture a young man Jim's age serving on a ship, but in those days it was natural for boys to not only be working, but shipping out to sea as well. Jim's position as a spy is in part made possible the Captain's trust and the fact that Silver genuinely likes the boy. Thus, he's the perfect choice.