Class 10th NCERT Solutions: Fog (Poem) English

November 28, 2014, 11:46 pm

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Fog First Flight Poem English NCERT Solution

By Carl Sandburg

Page No: 115

Thinking about the Poem

1. (i) What does Sandburg think the fog is like?
(ii) How does the fog come?
(iii) What does ‘it’ in the third line refer to?
(iv) Does the poet actually say that the fog is like a cat? Find three things that tell us that the fog is like a cat.

Answer

(i) According to Sandburg, the fog is like a cat.

(ii) The fog comes on little cat feet.

(iii) In the third line ‘it’ refers to the fog that has covered the city and it seems as if it is looking over the city like a cat.

(iv) No, the poet does not actually say that the fog is like a cat. However, he has used cat as a metaphor for describing the fog. He says that the fog comes on its little cat feet, which implies that the fog is like a cat as it comes slowly. He also says that the fog looks over the harbour and the city and then moves on, implying that the fog has covered the city and is sitting and looking at it, thereby again comparing it to a cat. This is reiterated when he says that the fog looks over the city sitting on ‘silent hunches’. This also shows the reference to a cat as a cat always sits with its knees bent. Hence, he has compared the fog to a cat without actually saying so.

2. You know that a metaphor compares two things by transferring a feature of one thing to the other (See Unit 1).

(i) Find metaphors for the following words and complete the table below.
Also try to say how they are alike. The first is done for you.

Storm	Tiger	Pounces over the fields, growls
Train
Fire
School
Home

Answer

Storm	Tiger	Pounces over the fields, growls
Train	Gush of wind	Very fast movement
Fire	Anger	Danger that surrounds both on the basis of their intensities
School	Gateway	Leads to adulthood and a life of responsibility
Home	Nest	Provides hospitable, loving environment

3. Does this poem have a rhyme scheme? Poetry that does not have an obvious rhythm or rhyme is called ‘free verse’.

Answer

No, this poem does not have a rhyme scheme. It is written in free verse.

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Class 10th NCERT Solution: The Tale of Custard the Dragon (Poem) English

November 29, 2014, 10:13 am

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The Tale of Custard the Dragon First Flight Poem English NCERT Solutions

By Ogden Nash

Page No: 132

Thinking about the Poem

1. Who are the characters in this poem? List them with their pet names.

Answer

The characters in this poem are Belinda, a little black kitten, a little grey mouse, a little yellow dog, a little pet dragon and a pirate.

Character	Pet name
Kitten	Ink
Mouse	Blink
Dog	Mustard
Dragon	Custard

2. Why did Custard cry for a nice, safe cage? Why is the dragon called a “cowardly dragon”?

Answer

Custard cried for a nice, safe cage because it was a coward. It is called a ‘cowardly dragon’ because everybody else in the house was brave. Belinda was as brave as a barrel of bears. Ink and Blink are described as so brave that they could chase lions down the stairs and Mustard was as brave as a tiger in rage. Compared to them, Custard cried asking for a nice and safe cage, which is why it is called a coward.

3. “Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful...” Why?

Answer

Belinda tickled the dragon unmercifully because it was very scared and cried for a safe cage. They all laughed at it as it was a coward.

4. The poet has employed many poetic devices in the poem. For example: “Clashed his tail like iron in a dungeon” − the poetic device here is a simile. Can you, with your partner, list some more such poetic devices used in the poem?
Answer


In the entire poem, the poet has made extensive use of similes. Apart from simile, another poetic device that has been used is repetition. For example, the repetitive use of the word ‘little’ in the first stanza to emphasise how everything from the house to Belinda to her pets were all little. Also, in the seventh stanza, the poet has made use of incorrect spelling as a poetic device to maintain the rhyme scheme of the poem. He has chosen to write ‘winda’ instead of ‘window’ as ‘winda’ rhymes with ‘Belinda’, whereas ‘window’ does not. He has also used alliteration in the poem. For example, in the tenth stanza, ‘Custard’ has ‘clashed’ his tail with a ‘clatter’ and a ‘clank’. Similarly, in stanza eleven, the pirate ‘gaped’ at the dragon and ‘gulped’ some ‘grog’.

6. Can you find out the rhyme scheme of two or three stanzas of the poem?

Answer

The rhyme scheme of each stanza of this poem is aabb.

7. Writers use words to give us a picture or image without actually saying what they mean. Can you trace some images used in the poem?

Answer

Some such images used in the poem are ‘mouth like a fireplace’, ‘chimney for a nose’, ‘brave as a barrel full of bears’, ‘brave as a tiger in a rage’, ‘went at the pirate like a robin at a worm’, etc.

8. Do you find The Tale of Custard the Dragon to be a serious or a light-hearted poem? Give reasons to support your answer.

Answer

The Tale of Custard the Dragon is a light-hearted poem. It is almost a parody. The names of the pets of Belinda are all rhyming and funny. Belinda has been compared to a barrel full of bears. The kitten and mouse, both little, could chase lions down the stairs. The little yellow dog was as brave as a tiger, while the dragon was a coward and they all teased him. However, when the pirate came to their little house, all of them were engulfed in fear and had hid themselves. Ironically, the ‘cowardly’ dragon came to their rescue and jumped snorting like an engine. It clashed its tail and charged at the pirate like a robin at a worm and ate him up. Even as everybody became happy to see the bravery of the dragon, they again came back to glorifying themselves that they could have been twice or thrice braver than the dragon. Finally, at the end of the poem, the situation again came back to the other pets being brave and the dragon being the coward.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: For Anne Gregory (Poem) English

November 29, 2014, 10:13 am

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For Anne Gregory First Flight Poem English NCERT Solutions

By Wiliam Butler Yeats

Page No: 141

Thinking about the Poem

1. What does the young man mean by “great honey-coloured/Ramparts at your ear?” Why does he say that young men are “thrown into despair” by them?

Answer

The “great honey-coloured/Ramparts at your ear” refers to the beautiful yellow coloured hair that falls at the woman’s ear and cover it like a wall around a fort. He says that the young men are “thrown into despair” by them because they look so beautiful on the woman that her beauty gets thoroughly enhanced. The young men fall in love with her and feel despair. He says that it is not possible that someone would love her alone and not her yellow hair.

2. What colour is the young woman’s hair? What does she say she can change it to? Why would she want to do so?

Answer

The young woman’s hair is of yellow colour. She says that she could get her hair dyed to brown, black or carrot colour. She would change the colour of her hair so that the young men in despair would love her only and not her yellow hair. She wanted them to love her for what she was and not for her appearance such as her hair colour.

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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch1 A Triumph of Surgery English

November 29, 2014, 4:38 am

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Chapter 1 A Triumph of Surgery Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solutions

By James Harriot

Page No: 1

Read and Find Out 

1. Why is Mrs Pumphrey worried about Tricki?

Answer

Mrs Pumphrey was worried and distraught because Tricki would not eat anything. It even refused its favourite dishes. It had bouts of vomiting. It spent all its time lying on the rug and panting. It did not want to go for walks or do anything.

2. What does she do to help him? Is she wise in this?

Answer

She called the doctor to help Tricki. Yes, her decision was wise. The doctor suggested that Tricki should be hospitalised. She swooned and wailed, but let the dog go with the doctor. Ultimately, the doctor was successful in curing Tricki.

3. Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?

Answer

In this story, ‘I’ refers to the veterinary surgeon, Mr Herriot.

Page No: 3

Read and Find out

1. Is the narrator as rich as Tricki’s mistress?

Answer

Though not clearly stated, there are instances in the story which suggest that the narrator is not as rich as Tricki’s mistress, Mrs Pumphrey.
While the narrator is able to provide Tricki with a warm loose box as a bed, at Mrs Pumphrey’s house, Tricki has a day bed, a night bed, cushions, toys, rubber rings, a breakfast bowl, a lunch bowl, a supper bowl, a whole wardrobe of tweed coats and perhaps many more things.
When he arrives to take the dog with him, Mrs Pumphrey has her entire staff at her disposal to transfer all of Tricki’s belongings to the doctor’s car.
On hearing from the doctor about Tricki’s gradual recovery, Mrs Pumphrey sends along two dozen eggs at a time, along with bottles of wine and brandy—all in order to help in Tricki’s speedy recovery.
Finally, when she calls upon the narrator to take her recovered dog back home, she comes in a chauffer-driven “thirty feet of gleaming black metal” (an obvious reference to a limousine).
All these instances point to the fact that Mrs Pumphrey lived a luxurious life.

2. How does he treat the dog?

Answer

The doctor gave Tricki no food, but plenty of water for two days. Slowly, the dog started showing interest in his surroundings and began mixing with the other dogs at the surgery. On the third day, the doctor saw Tricki licking the empty supper bowls of the other dogs. Next day, a separate bowl was kept for it and the doctor was pleased to note that Tricki had run to eat its food with enthusiasm. From that day onwards, its progress was rapid. It did not require medicinal treatment of any kind and recovered quite well at the end.

3. Why is he tempted to keep Tricki on as a permanent guest?

Answer

Mrs Pumphrey had started bringing around eggs to build Tricki’s strength. Later, even bottles of wineand brandy began to arrive. The narrator and his partners started enjoying the eggs, wine and brandy meant for Tricki. According to the narrator, they were days of deep content for them—starting with the extra egg in the morning, then the midday wine, and finally finishing the day with brandy. This was the reason why the narrator was tempted to keep Tricki on as a permanent guest.

4. Why does Mrs Pumphrey think the dog’s recovery is “a triumph of surgery”?

Answer

Mrs Pumphrey thought that the dog’s recovery was “a triumph of surgery” because in two weeks, Tricki had recovered completely and had been transformed into a hard-muscled animal. When Tricki saw her,it leaped into her lap and licked her face. She was so excited that tears started rolling out of her eyes. She declared Tricki’s recovery as a triumph of surgery to express her happiness and gratitude towards the doctor.

Page No: 6

Think about It

1. What kind of a person do you think the narrator, a veterinary surgeon, is? Would you say he is tactful as well as full of common sense?

Answer

I think the narrator; a veterinary surgeon is a very tactful person. He knows how to deal with people. He adjusts himself well to the circumstances. He immediately understand tricki’s problem. Tricki doesn’t suffer from any sort of illness. The main cause of its illness is overfeeding. He takes the dog to his surgery. There he keeps it in natural environment. The dog gets well under his supervision and natural environment of surgery.

2. Do you think Tricki was happy to go home? What do you think will happen now?

Answer

Yes, Tricki was very happy to go home. Tricki was also happy at the surgery. When the dog was brought into the surgery, it was ill. But in spite of it dog got cured in two days without any medication. The proper diet and regular exercise helped a lot in its speedy recovery. The dog regained its best health and was no longer listless.
Now, I think same pampering will start again. Mrs. Pumphrey will take excessive
care of the dog. There is no doubt it was her lone, but excess of anything is harmful.

3. Do you think this is a real-life episode, or mere fiction? Or is it a mixture of both?

Answer

This story could be a mixture of both: real life episode and a mere fiction. Mrs. Pumphrey is a rich lady and has a pet dog. It is because of her pampering that she overfeeds her dog which results in its illness. Although she has good intention in her mind but excess of everything is bad. This episode can be treated as a fiction who do not take it seriously. It can be called real life for those parents who take excessive care of their child.

Talk about It

1. This episode describes the silly behaviour of a rich woman who is foolishly indulgent, Perhaps because she is lonely. Do you think such people are merely silly, or can their action cause harm to others?

Answer

This episode describes the silly behaviour of a rich woman who is foolishly. This may be because of her loneliness. They are ignorant about results of their actions. They show their excessive lone and affection for someone without knowing the consequences. There is no doubt that their intentions are good, and don’t have any sort of ill-will, but they are not aware their action can cause harm to others.  

2. Do you think there are also parents like Mrs. Pumphrey?

Answer

Yes there are parents who are too much possessive about their kids. The sense of overindulgence can go in either way. There are examples of parents spoiling their child by meeting each and every demand of the child. There are also examples of strict parents who put unnecessary pressure on their child for study and particular behaviour pattern.

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Class 10th NCERT Solutions: Ch 2 The Thief's Story English

November 29, 2014, 4:37 am

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Chapter 2 The Thief's Story Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solutions

By Ruskin Bond

Page No: 8

Read and Find Out

1. Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?

Answer

In this story, ‘I’ refers to the thief.

2. What is he “a fairly successful hand” at?

Answer

He was “a fairly successful hand” at stealing and robbing people.

3. What does he get from Anil in return for his work?

Answer

When Hari asked Anil if he could work for him, Anil said that he could not pay him. Finally, the agreement was that if he would cook, then Anil would feed him. However, Anil soon found out that he did not know how to cook. Therefore, he taught him how to cook and later, how to write his name. He promised he would teach him how to write whole sentences and how to add numbers. Apart from this, when Hari went out to buy the day’s supplies, he would make a profit of a rupee a day.

Page No: 10

Read and Find Out

1. How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?

Answer

The thief thought that on discovering the theft, Anil’s face would show a touch of sadness. The sadness would not be for the loss of money, but for the loss of trust.

2. What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?

Answer

In his short career as a thief, he had made a study of men’s faces when they lost their goods. He said that the greedy men showed fear; the rich men showed anger and the poor men showed acceptance.

3. Does Anil realize that he has been robbed?

Answer

Yes, Anil had realized that he had been robbed. He knew this probably because all the notes were wet and damp from the rain. However, he did not say anything to the thief and behaved normally.

Page No: 13

Think about It

1. What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time? (Hint: compare, for example, the thought: “I knew that once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve” with these later thoughts: ‘Whole sentences, I knew, cloud one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees. It was a simple matter to steal − and sometimes just as simple to be caught. But to be a really big man, a clever and respected man, was something else.”) What makes him return to Anil?

Answer

Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education change over time. When he started living with Anil he wanted to be literate so that he could become a more cunning cheat. Later on there is a change in his heart. He wants to earn respect in life. Probably he is influenced by the calm in Anil’s life. Although, both of them depend on irregular sources of income, but Anil seems to be more satisfied. Hari Singh develops a desire to be part of the civilized society.

2. Why does not Anil hand the thief over to the police? Do you think most people would have done so? In what ways is Anil different from such employers?
Answer

Anil does not hand the thief over to the police because he has put the money back at its place. It shows that he realized his fault. He wants to make amends for his ways. He must have felt guilty with himself. Anil wants to give him one more chance and therefore forgives him.
No, in today’s world most people would not have done so. Although it must be done but such sort of patience and compassion are rarely found now a days in this human world.

Talk about It

1. Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?

Answer

No, I don’t think that people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction. There are such people in real life also. Although such people are rare in today’s society. If one is caught stealing, people will first beat him severely. Then he will be handed over to the police. It should be realized that a human being is bound to commit error. One chance for reforming oneself must be given. This is the only way to bring anyone to right path. Punishing severely is not the only solution. Strictness can make them absolute criminal.

2. Do you think it a significant detail in the story that Anil is a struggling writer? Does this explain his behaviour in any way?

Answer

Hari Singh’s observation about Anil getting irregular income and Anil’s statement about his sale of a book to a publisher indicates that he is a struggling writer. He lives life according to the flow of money he gets at a given time. When he gets the money he enjoys eating out with his friends. When he is having less money then he even dosen’t accept paying salary to Hari Singh.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 3 Midnight Visitor English

November 29, 2014, 10:12 am

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Chapter 3 The Midnight Visitor Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solutions

By Robert Arthur

Page No: 14

Read and Find Out

1. How is Ausable different from other secret agents?

Answer

Ausable was different from other secret agents in more ways than one. He had a small room in the musty corridor of a gloomy French hotel. It was on the sixth and top floor and it was scarcely the setting for a romantic adventure. He was extremely fat. Inspite of living in Paris for over twenty years, he spoke French and German only passably and had an American accent. Instead of getting messages slipped into his hands by dark-eyed beauties, he got only a telephone call making an appointment. In these ways, he was different from the conventional notion of a spy.

2. Who is Fowler and what is his first authentic thrill of the day?

Answer

Fowler was a writer and he had come to meet Ausable.
Fowler’s first authentic thrill of the day came when he saw a man in Ausable’s room pointing a pistol towards Ausable and himself.

Page No: 15

Read and Find Out

1. How has Max got in?

Answer

Max had got into the room with a passkey or a master key.

2. How does Ausable say he got in?

Answer

Ausable said that he thought Max had got into the room through the balcony. He said that it was the second time in a month that somebody had got into his room this way.

Page No: 18

Think about It

1. “Ausable did not fit any description of a secret agent Fowler hand ever read.” What do secret agents in books and films look like, in your opinion? Discuss in groups or in class some stories or movies featuring spies, detectives and secret agents, and compare their appearance with that of Ausable in this story. (You may mention characters from fiction in languages other than English. In English fiction you may have come across Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, or Miss Marple. Have you watched any movies featuring James Bond?)

Answer

Secret agents in fiction are projected like ideal men, ‘Tall dark and handsome’. They are usually well built and keep have beautiful women for company. They would always smoke pipe or cigar and do death defying stunts. James Bond is a very famous character by Ian Fleming. Movies based on James Bond show hi-tech gizmos whch assist the detective in countering villains. There are some exceptions as well. There is a character named Feluda which was created by Satyajit Ray, the famous Bangla Filmmaker. Feluda was typical bhadralok by appearance.
2. How does Ausable manage to make Max believe that there is a balcony attached to his room? Look back at his detailed description of it. What makes it a convincing story?

Answer

Ausable tells Max that someone entered his room through the balcony before also. He also told him that he had asked police to give him protection as he had some important papers with him. On listening Max became nervous and just wanted to escape from police, as a result without noticing he jumped out of the window and fell down. Ausable’s ability to think quickly and calmly, in a situation of panic makes it convincing.

3. Looking back at the story, when do you think Ausable thought up his plan for getting rid of Max? Do you think he had worked out his plan in detail right from the beginning? Or did he make up a plan taking advantage of events as they happened?

Answer

No, I don’t think that he had worked out his plan in detail. He took advantages of the event as they happened. Ausable made a story of the balcony outside the room and as there was a knock at the door, he told it would be police, all this events threatened Max. In such a hurry, he became restless and without seeing jumped out of the window.

Talk about It

1. In this story, Ausable shows great ‘presence of mind’ or the ability to think quickly and act calmly and wisely, in a situation of danger and surprise. Give examples from your own experience, or narrate a story, which shows someone’s presence of mind.

Answer

This story is reference to the play ‘If I were you’. Gurrad was captured by a criminal and the criminal pointed gun towards him but he treated the criminal as a guest and trapped him in his confidence. He achieved the criminal to run away as police is behind him. He told the criminal to run through the exit door, which was actually a cupboard door. The criminal exited through the door and was caught in the cupboard.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 4 A Question of Trust English

November 29, 2014, 10:12 am

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Chapter 4 A Question of Trust Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By Victor Canning

Page No: 20

Read and Find Out

1. What does Horace Danby like to collect?

Answer

Horace Danby liked to collect rare and expensive books.

2. Why does he steal every year?

Answer

He stole every year so that he could buy the rare and expensive books that he loved to collect. Each year, he planned carefully, stole enough to last twelve months, and secretly bought the books, through an agent.

Page No: 22

Read and Find Out

1. Who is speaking to Horace Danby?

Answer

A lady standing in the doorway was speaking to Horace Danby. She was young and pretty, and was dressed in red. She said she had come just in time, or else her family would have been robbed by Horace. She, thus, pretended to be one of the members of the family living at Shotover Grange.

2. Who is the real culprit in the story?

Answer

The real culprit was the woman who pretended to be a member of the family living at Shotover Grange. She tricked Horace into believing her, and cleverly took away all the jewels that were kept in the safe.

Page No: 25

Think about It

1. Did you begin to suspect, before the end of the story, that the lady was not the person Horace Danby took her to be? If so, at what point did you realize this, and how?

Answer

Yes, one does begin to suspect before the end of the story that the lady was not the person Horace Danby took her to be. She was unusually calm on seeing Horace. This seemed strange enough. When she did not call the police, and instead asked Horace to take out all the jewels from the safe, even if it meant breaking it open, it seemed suspicious. Moreover, it also seemed unlikely that she would forget the numbers to open the safe. Therefore, it was evident, before the story ended, that the lady was not the person Horace had taken her to be.

2. What are the subtle ways in which the lady manages to deceive Horace Danby into thinking she is the lady of the house? Why doesn’t Horace suspect that something is wrong?

Answer

Her confident walk, her act of touching up her make-up and the ease with which she picks cigarette from the right place are enough to deceive anybody. Horace was too frightened to think properly so he didn’t suspect anything.

3. “Horace Danby was good and respectable − but not completely honest”. Why do you think this description is apt for Horace? Why can’t he be categorized as a typical thief?

Answer

“Horace Danby was good and respectable − but not completely honest”. This description is apt for Horace. He was about fifty years old. He robbed only from rich people, and his purpose was to buy rare and expensive books with the money. He stole only once a year. The intention of buying books was good. However, the fact that he stole to achieve this end showed that he was not completely honest. He cannot be categorized as a typical thief because he did not steal to eat or drink. He had a house. He made locks, had two people to help him, and was successful in his business. He only stole enough money to buy the books. For a couple of days, he even kept his promise to the lady he met at Shotover Grange by not stealing or planning any robbery.

4. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner but still he faltered. Where did he go wrong and why?

Answer

Horace Danby failed to get enough information about real occupants of the house. He seems to be too occupied with collecting information about house map, wiring and location of valuable things. Although he was smart enough to know the dog’s actual name but overlooked getting identity of each and every occupants of the house. Once he was in problem then probably his clever mind gave way to carelessness leading him to open the safe without wearing gloves.

Talk about It

1. Do you think Horace Danby was unfairly punished, or that he deserved what he got?

Answer

He deserved what he got. A crime is a crime no matter if it is committed a hundred times or just once.

2. Do intentions justify actions? Would you, like Horace Danby, do something wrong if you thought your ends justified the means? Do you think that there are situations in which it is excusable to act less than honestly?

Answer

“Ends do not justify means”, this is a very old and time tested saying. For own benefit nobody should harm others. But this world doesn’t function on idealism. There are many examples of people duping people for quick gains. These acts should be deplored and dealt with severely.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 5 Footprints without Feet English

November 29, 2014, 8:07 am

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Chapter 5 Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By H.G. Wells

Page No: 26

Read and Find Out

1. How did the invisible man first become visible?

Answer

Griffin was completely invisible until he happened to step in some mud, which caused him to leave footprints as he walked. His footprints were seen by two boys, who followed him as long as the prints were visible. On getting rid of them, he went into a big London store to put on some warm clothes. After the store was shut, he got dressed by putting on shoes, an overcoat and a wide-brimmed hat. This made him visible to the people who came to work at the store the next day.

2. Why was he wandering the streets?

Answer

Griffin was a lawless person. His landlord disliked him and tried to get rid of him. In revenge, he set fire to the house. He had to remove his clothes to get away without being seen. This was why he had become a homeless wanderer—without clothes and money.

Page No: 28

1. Why does Mrs Hall find the scientist eccentric?

Answer

The arrival of a stranger at an inn in winter was in itself a strange occurrence. In addition, the stranger had an uncommon appearance. In spite of Mrs Hall’s attempts to be friendly, he would respond in a cold manner. He told her that he had no desire to talk, and that all he wanted was solitude. He did not wish to be disturbed in his work. For all these reasons she regarded him as an eccentric scientist.

2. What curious episode occurs in the study?

Answer

A clergyman and his wife were awakened by noises in the study very early in the morning. Creeping downstairs, they heard the chink of money being taken from the clergyman's desk. He and his wife looked under the desk and behind the curtains, and even up the chimney. There wasn't a sign of anybody. Yet the desk had been opened and the housekeeping money was missing.
3. What other extraordinary things happen at the inn?

Answer

The landlord and his wife surprised to see the scientist's door open. Usually it is shut and locked and he becomes furious if anyone enters his room. The opportunity seems too good to be missed. They peep round the door, see nobody and decide to investigate. The bedclothes were cold, showing that the scientist must have been up for some time. All of a sudden Mrs. Hall heard a sniff close to her ear. A moment later the hat on the bed post leapt up and dashed itself into her face. Then the bedroom chair became alive. Springing into the air it charged straight at her, legs foremost. As she and her husband turned away in terror, the extraordinary chair pushed them both out of the room and then appeared to slam and lock the door after them. Mrs. Hall almost fell down the stairs in hysterics. She was convinced that the room was haunted by sprits and the stranger had somehow caused these to enter into the furniture.

Page No: 31

1. “Griffin was rather a lawless person.” Comment.

Answer

It is rightly said that Griffin was a lawless person. He was not a law abiding citizen. A person who follows law and order of the country can not think of damaging other's property. But Griffin set fire to the house and became a homeless wanderer. He also robbed a shopkeeper of all the money he could find. He stole the housekeeping money from the clergyman's desk. Griffin also attacked Mrs. Hall when she entered his room. All these activities and instances prove that he was really a lawless person.

2. How would you assess Griffin as a scientist?

Answer

After repeated experiments, Griffin had discovered how to make the human body transparent. This was a big achievement. However, he misused his discovery for personal gains and for hurting others. Thus, though he can be termed as a brilliant scientist, he was not a noble one.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 6 The Making of a Scientist English

November 29, 2014, 10:11 am

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Chapter 6 The Making of Scienctist Footprints wihout Feet English NCERT Solution

By Robert W. Peterson

Page No: 32

Read and Find Out

1. How did a book become a turning point in Richard Ebright’s life?

Answer

Richard Ebright was interested in collecting butterflies. By the time he was in the second grade, he had collected all the twenty-five species of butterflies found around his home town. This would have been the end of his butterfly collecting. But at this point his mother got him a book called “The Travels of Moarch X’. This book told him about the migration of monarch butterflies to Central America. This book aroused his interest in Monarch butterflies and opened the world of science to him. This proved to be turning point in the life of young Richard Ebright. He began to raise Monarch butterflies in the basement of his home, and study them in different stage of their development.

2. How did his mother help him?

Answer

Richard Ebright’s mother helped him by encouraging his interest in learning. She took him on trips, bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials and other equipments, and helped him in many other ways. If he did not have anything to do, she found things for him to learn. Even the book that became a turning point in his life was given to him by his mother. Hence, it can be said his mother played a crucial role in the making of the scientist.

Page No: 34

Read and Find Out

1. What lesson does Ebright learn when he does not win anything at a science fair?

Answer

Edbright realizes that mere display of something does not mean science. To win at a science fair he will have to do real experiments.

2. What experiments and projects does he then undertake?

Answer

He make experiments to find out what causes the viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars.
He undertakes a project to test the theory that vicerory butterflies copy monarches to survive.

3. What are the qualities that go into the making of a scientist?

Answer

The author mentions three qualities that go into the making of a scientist—a first-rate mind, curiosity, and the will to win for the right reasons. Richard Ebright was a very intelligent student. He was also a champion debater, a public speaker, a good canoeist and an expert photographer. He always gave that extra effort. He was competitive, but for the right reasons. From the first he had a driving curiosity along with a bright mind; and it was this curiosity that ultimately led him to his theory about cell life.

Page No: 38

Think about It

1. How can one become a scientist, an economist, a historian…? Does it simply involve reading many books on the subject? Does it involve observing, thinking and doing experiments?

Answer

Reading books is just one aspect of learning. This is an exercise in information gathering. It is how your brain processes the information that affects the degree of learning. The first and the foremost criteria to become a genius in one’s chosen field is to have great curiosity and unending hunger to discover more. Next criteria is a good sense of observation which helps you to correlate your findings with what you see or experience in the real world. Experiments are must to test your findings against possible variables and in real life situations. And last, but not the least criteria is an urge to work really hard on your area of interest.

2. You must have read about cells and DNA in your science books. Discuss Richard Ebright’s work in the light of what you have studied. If you get an opportunity to work like Richard Ebright on projects and experiments, which field would you like to work on and why?

Answer

Ebrights’ work are directly related to Biology. Discovery of cell’s structure has helped scientific community to understand the way any organism functions and grows. This has helped scientists to discover how disease causing organisms attack us and grow inside our body. This must have given them idea to counter a particular disease . DNA fingerprinting is helping police to pinpoint the real culprit. This was not possible when DNA was discovered. Monarch butterflies present an amazing example of a tiny creature migrating thousands of miles from North America to the rainforest of Amazon. Some day we can be in a position to develop as sturdy and reliable navigation system as that of the Monarch butterflies


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Class 10th NCERT Solutions: Ch 7 The Necklace English

November 29, 2014, 8:45 am

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Chapter 7 The Necklace Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By Guy De Maupassant

Page No: 39

Read and Find Out

1. What kind of a person is Mme Loisel − why is she always unhappy?
Answer

Mme. loisel is a dreamy woman. She gives much value to her dreams. She over-looks the realities of life. That is why, she is always unhappy because dreams can’t be true . She wants them to be true.
2. What kind of a person is her husband?
Answer

Her husband is a very simple hearted person. He is an ordinary person. He is a caring husband. He wants to see Mme. Loisel happy.
Page No: 41

Read and Find Out

1. What fresh problem now disturbs Mme Loisel?

Answer

After buying a pretty dress, Mme Loisel was bothered by yet another problem. She had no jewel to adorn herself with. She said she would have a poverty-stricken look. Her husband suggested that she should wear some natural flowers. However, she refused and said that there was nothing more humiliating than to have a shabby air in the midst of rich women.
2. How is the problem solved?
Answer

Mme Loisel’s husband solved this problem. He told his wife to request her friend, Mme Forestier to lend her some jewels. When she went to Mme Forestier, the latter brought a jewel case, so that Mme Loisel could choose whichever jewels she liked.
Page No: 42

Read and Find Out

1. What do M. and Mme Loisel do next?

Answer

When M. and Mme Loisel realized that the necklace was missing, they tried finding out where she could have lost it. They concluded that it could have been dropped in the cab. They did not know its number. Therefore, Loisel went over the track where they had walked. When he found nothing, he went to the police and to the cab offices. He even put an advertisement in the newspapers, offering a reward. He then asked Matilda to write a letter to Mme Forestier, explaining that she had broken the clasp of the necklace and would get it repaired. This gave them time to find the necklace. However, they eventually decided to replace the necklace with a new one.
Page no: 46

Thinking about the text

1. The course of the Loisels’ life changed due to the necklace. Comment.

Answer

The course of the Loisel’s life changed due to the necklace. After replacing the lost necklace with a new one, they had to replay all the money that they had borrowed to buy the new necklace. They sent away the maid and changed their lodgings. They rented some rooms in an attic. Matilda learnt the odious work of a kitchen. She washed the dishes, soiled linen, their clothes and dishcloths. She took down the refuse to the street each morning and brought up the water, stopping at each landing to catch her breath. She went to the grocer’s, the butcher’s, and the fruiter’s, with her basket on her arm, shopping, haggling to save her money. Loisel worked in the evenings, putting the books of some merchants in order. At night, he did copying at five sous a page. This lasted for ten years, and at the end of the said period, they were able to repay their lenders.
2. What was the cause of Matilda’s ruin? How could she have avoided it?
Answer

The cause of Matilda’s ruin was her dissatisfaction with whatever life offered her. She was always unhappy. She felt that she was born for all the delicacies and luxuries. She disliked her circumstances.
She could have avoided the ruin by being content with what she had.
3. What would have happened to Matilda if she had confessed to her friend that she had lost her necklace?
Answer

If Matilda would have confessed to her friend that she had lost her necklace, she might have been in lesser trouble than what she faced after having replaced the necklace. Her friend would definitely have been angry with her. Most probably, she would have asked Matilda to replace it. She would have given her the details from where she had bought the necklace and how much it had cost her. Matilda would thus have known that the jewels in the necklace were not real diamonds. It would have cost her a far lesser amount to replace it. Matilda would thus have saved herself and her husband all the trouble they went through.

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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 8 The Hack Driver English

November 29, 2014, 10:10 am

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Chapter 8 The Hack Driver Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By Sinclair Lewis

Page No: 47

Read and Find Out

1. Why is the lawyer sent to New Mullion? What does he first think about the place?

Answer

The lawyer was sent to New Mullion to serve summons on Oliver Lutkins, who was needed as a witness in a law case.
He had expected the place to be a sweet and simple country village.

2. Who befriends him? Where does he take him?

Answer

The lawyer was befriended by a delivery man who introduced himself as Bill. He told him that he knew Lutkins and would help the lawyer in finding him. He took him to all the places where Lutkins was seen or was known to hang out. He took the lawyer to Fritz’s shop, where Lutkins played a lot of poker; to Gustaff’s barber shop and then to Gray’s barber shop; to the poolroom and several other places before finally taking him to Oliver’s mother’s farm. However, Oliver Lutkins was not found.

3. What does he say about Lutkins?

Answer

Bill told the lawyer that Lutkins was a hard fellow to catch. He was always up to something or the other. He owed money to many people, including Bill, and had never even paid anybody a cent. He also said that Oliver played a lot of poker and was good at deceiving people.

Page No: 50

1. What more does Bill say about Lutkins and his family?

Answer

Bill told the lawyer that he knew Lutkins’ mother. He said that she was a terror. He narrated an incident when he took a trunk to her once and she almost took his skin off because he did not treat it like a box of eggs. He also said that she was about nine feet tall and four feet thick. She was very quick and could talk a lot. He said that Oliver must have heard that somebody was chasing him and consequently, would have gone into hiding at his mother’s place.

2. Does the narrator serve the summons that day?

Answer

No. The narrator did not serve the summons that day.

3. Who is Lutkins?

Answer

The hack driver himself was Oliver Lutkins.

Page No: 53

Think about It

1. When the lawyer reached New Mullion, did ‘Bill’ know that he was looking for Lutkins? When do you think Bill came up with his plan for fooling the lawyer?

Answer

Lutkins act of taking the lawyer for a ride clearly indicates that he is a very cunning person. It is his natural behaviour to not disclose his true identity to unknown persons. Moreover, being a cheat as he is it seems his regular practice to dupe people who are newcomers.

2. Lutkins openly takes the lawyer all over the village. How is it that no one lets out the secret? (Hint: Notice that the hack driver asks the lawyer to keep out of sight behind him when they go into Fritz’s.)Can you find other such subtle ways in which Lutkins manipulates the tour?

Answer

Lutkin never allows the lawyer to the place where the imaginary Lutkins is supposed to be present at a given time. The way he weaves stories about Lutkin’s vagabond nature and the way he scares the lawyer about Lutkin’s mother are great tools applied by Bill.

3. Why do you think Lutkins’ neighbours were anxious to meet the lawyer?

Answer

Lutkin’s neighbours were not anxious to meet a person who could be easily duped. They wanted to enjoy the lawyer’s predicament.

4. After his first day’s experience with the hack driver the lawyer thinks of returning to New Mullion to practise law. Do you think he would have reconsidered this idea after his second visit?

Answer

After his first day’s experience with the hack driver, the lawyer had considered returning to New Mullion to practise law. However, he realised during his second visit that he had been literally taken for a ride by the hack driver (who himself was Lutkins). In this, Lutkins was helped by the townspeople. After becoming the laughing stock of the town, it is most likely that the lawyer would have reconsidered his initial idea of working there.

5. Do you think the lawyer was gullible? How could he have avoided being taken for a ride?

Answer

The lawyer seems to be a simpleton and inexperienced person. He has yet to come to grips with the way the bad world functions. He could have done his homework better before going to the village. He could have taken a photograph of Lutkin if available. Before relying on Bill he could have cross checked with other people as well. He could have avoided sending Bill alone to search Lutkin.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 9 Bholi English

November 29, 2014, 10:09 am

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Chapter 9 Bholi Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By K.A. Abbas

Page No: 54

Read and Find Out

1.Why is Bholi’s father worried about her?

Answer

Bholi’s father was worried about her as she had neither good looks nor intelligence. He did not know how he would find a suitable groom for her.

2. For what unusual reasons is Bholi sent to school?

Answer

Bholi is sent to school because there is little chance of her getting married, with her ugly face and lack of sense.

Page No: 55

Read and Find Out

1. Does Bholi enjoy her first day at school?

Answer

Yes, Bholi enjoys her first day at school as she was glad to find so many girls almost of her own age present there. She hoped that one of these girls might become her friend.

2. Does she find her teacher different from the people at home?

Answer

Yes, she finds her teacher different from the people at home as the teacher was polite and this touched her heart.

Page No: 58

Read and Find Out

1. Why do Bholi’s parents accept Bishamber’s marriage proposal?

Answer

Bholi's parents accept Bishamber's marriage proposal becsuse if they don't accept it, she would not be married for the rest of her life.

2. Why does the marriage not take place?

Answer

The marriage does not take place because the groom demanded dowry.

Page No: 62

Think about It

1. Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. What made her feel that she was going to a better place than her home?

Answer

Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. She remembered how their old cow, Lakshmi, had been turned out of the house and sold. When she got a clean dress, bathed and oil was rubbed into her dry hair,only then she felt that she was going to a better place than her home.

2. How did Bholi’s teacher play an important role in changing the course of her life?

Answer

Bholi's teacher played an important role in changing the course of her life. She was polite and friendly which touched her heart. She encouraged her every time and was affectionate towards her and said to Bholi to put her fears of not able to speak aside. The teacher transformed her into a confident person who could read, write and speak clearly.

3. Why did Bholi at first agree to an unequal match? Why did she later reject the marriage? What does this tell us about her?

Answer

Bholi at first agreed to an unequal match because she was lucky to get a well-to-do bridegroom who owned a big shop, had a house of his own and had several thousand in the bank. Moreover, he was not asking for any dowry. Bholi also heard her mother saying that he did not know about her pock-marks and her lack of sense. If the proposal was not accept she might remain unmarried all her life. She later rejected the marriage because the bride groom demanded five thousand rupees as dowry. On seeing the father pleading and humiliated she decided not to marry him.

This tells us that she has self respect and knows what is right or wrong and is able to take a wise decision.

4. Bholi’s real name is Sulekha. We are told this right at the beginning. But only in the last but one paragraph of the story is Bholi called Sulekha again. Why do you think she is called Sulekha at that point in the story?

Answer

The world Bholi means a simpleton. Throughout the story she had been a simpleton hardly expressing her opinion. The word Sulekha means the person with beautiful sense of letters. In this story this word has a larger meaning of being a literate, intelligent and mature individual. After her education Bholi has really changed to Sulekha and her assertion during marriage is her announcement to the world that she is no more a Bholi but Sulekha.

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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 10 The Book that Saved the Earth English

November 29, 2014, 7:06 pm

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Chapter 10 The Book That Saved the Earth Footprints without Feet English NCERT Solution

By Claire Boiko

Page No: 63

Read and Find Out

1. Why was the twentieth century called the ‘Era of the Book’?

Answer

The twentieth century was often called the Era of the Book. In those days, there were books about everything, from  ant eaters to Zulus. Books taught people how to, and when to, and where to, and why to. They illustrated, educated, punctuated, and even decorated.

2. Who tried to invade the earth in the twenty-first century?

Answer

The Martians tried to invade the earth in the twenty-first century.

Page No: 65

1. What guesses are made by Think-Tank about the books found on earth?

Answer

Think-Tank makes guesses about the books found on earth was that they are sandwiches meant for communication later he says that they are for eye communication.

Page No: 74 

Think about It

1. Noodle avoids offending Think − Tank but at the same time he corrects his mistakes. How does he mange to do that?

Answer

Noodle avoided offending Think-Tank, but at the same time he corrected his mistakes. Whenever he had to say something contrary to what Think-Tank said, he would present his thoughts by referring to them as being of no particular importance. In this way he would correct Think-Tank’s errors without making him feel that he was being corrected.

2. If you were in Noodle’s place, how would you handle Think −Tank’s mistakes?

Answer

If I were in Noodle's place, I would have handled Think-Tank's mistakes the same way as Noodle does.

3. Do you think books are being replaced by the electronic media? Can we do away with books altogether?

Answer

No,

4. Why are books referred to as a man’s best companion? Which is your favourite book and why? Write a paragraph about that book.

Answer

Books are known to be as man's best companion. Human can make mentally and friendly relation with them. They can use them for knowledge as well as time pass purpose.
Choose your favourite book and wrote one para about that.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 1 Two Gentlemen of Verona English

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Chapter 1 Two Gentlemen of Verona Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By A.J. Cronin

Page No: 3

1. What are the qualities of a "gentleman"? Work with your partner and complete the following web-chart by listing the qualities of a gentleman.

Answer

2. Based on your discussion above, what do you think the story is about?

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

Answer

I think the story is about a person who bears amiable nature. The story is based on the theme of human ethics.

Page No: 8

4. Based on reading of the story answer the following questions by ticking the correct options.

1. The driver did not approve of the narrator buying fruit from the two boys because
(a) the boys were untidy and poorly dressed
(b) the strawberries were not fresh
(c) they were asking for a heavy price
(d) the driver did not approve of small boys who worked

Answer

(a) the boys were untidy and poorly dressed

2. The narrator was most impressed by the boys'
(a) desire to earn money
(b) willingness to work
(c) ability to perform many tasks
(d) sense of fun

Answer

(b) willingness to work

3. Nicola was not pleased when Jacopo asked the narrator to drive them to Poleta as he
(a) did not want a stranger to become involved with their plans
(b) preferred going to Poleta by train so that he could enjoy the scenery
(c) did not want to ask anyone for favours
(d) did not want to take help from someone he did not know well

Answer

(a) did not want a stranger to become involved with their plans

4. The narrator did not go inside Lucia's room as
(a) he did not want to intrude into their privacy
(b) he thought that the boys would object
(c) Lucia would not welcome a stranger
(d) the boys would feel he was spying on them

Answer

(a) he did not want to intrude into their privacy

5. The boys were the first to join the resistance movement against the Germans because
(a) the Germans had hurt their sister
(b) the Germans ruled the city
(c) the Germans had ruined their family
(d) the Germans had destroyed their home

Answer

(c) the Germans had ruined their family

6. The author did not speak to the boys on their return journey because
(a) he thought the boys would prefer to keep their secret
(b) he thought the boys were ashamed of their sister's condition
(c) he thought they wouldn't tell him the truth
(d) he thought the boys might ask him for money for their sister

Answer

(a) he thought the boys would prefer to keep their secret

Page No: 9

5. What do you understand by the following statements?

(a) "We do many things, sir," Nicola answered seriously. He glanced at us hopefully.

Answer

This tsatements shows that the two boys were not ashamed of doing menial jobs such as shoe polish or fruit-vending. When the narrator saw them working as shoe shine boys he was surprised as he had seen them selling wild strawberries the previous day. He asked them about it. Then Nicola, the elder brother spoke that they did many things. Nicola said that they also did a lot of other things for a living. The boys hoped that the narrator would ask for their services and in return would earn some good money.

(b) He coloured deeply under his sunburn, then grew pale

Answer

This statement shows the uneasiness of the speaker, Nicola. The narrator was astonished to see that boys worked hard day and night and yet lived meagerly. He wanted to know what the boys did with the money they earned. When he questioned Nicola, he appeared uncomfortable. Perhaps the boys were not used to anybody questioning them regarding their earnings, and the narrator’s question embarrassed them.

(c) He smiled uncomfortably. "Just plans, sir," he answered in a low voice.

Answer

When the narrator suggested that the boys were saving to emigrate to the States.
Nicola responded that how much ever they wished to do that, currently they had other plans, which he was unwilling to and uncomfortable sharing with the narrator.

(d) Yet in both these boyish faces there was a seriousness which was far beyond their years.

Answer

This statement reflects that both the boys Nicola and Jacopo were mature enough to face the harships of life. They were only 13 and 12 years yet they looked and behaved wonderfully remarkable. They were childish and innocent yet they were waise, responsible and mature.

6. Answer the following questions briefly.

(a) Why didn't Luigi, the driver, approve of the two boys?

Answer

Luigi, the driver didn't approve of the shabby appearence of Nicola and Jacopo. They were wearing old and worn out clothes.

(b) Why were the narrator and his companion impressed by the two boys?

Answer

They were very impressed by the boys because they were highly committed and devoted towards work at such a young age. They were ready to do all sorts of odd jobs to earn money. They exhibited dedication,determination and sincerity while working.

(c) Why was the author surprised to see Nicola and Jacopo working as shoeshine boys?

Answer

The narrator was surprised to see Nicola and Jacopo shining shoes because he thought that selling fruits was their only occupancy.

(d) How were the boys useful to the author?

Answer

The boys were useful to the author in many ways. They showed them city as guide, heelped them in getting a pack of American cigarettes, bought tickets for the opera for them, told them about good restaurants and ran all their errands.

(e) Why were the boys in the deserted square at night? What character traits do they exhibit?

Answer

The two boys were selling newspapers in the windy, deserted square at night. They were waiting for the last bus from Padua. They would sell their newspapers when it came in.
It shows their sense of hardwork and patience. They could work till midnight.

(f) The narrator asks the boys, "Must you work so hard? You both look rather tired."
The boys reply, "We are not complaining, sir." What do you learn about the boys from their reply?

Answer

When the narattor saw them selling newspapers till midnight, he asked them if they must do work so hard as they both looked tired. . At this, Nicola replied that they were not compalining about it. It means that both the boys had a lot of courage and patience of workign hard. It shows their willingness and readiness to work.

(g) When the narrator asks the boys about their plans, they are evasive. Why don't they disclose their problems?

Answer

The boys don't disclose their problems to the narrator when the latter ask them about their plans because they do not want to loose their dignity and self-respect by not asking anyone for sympathy or financial help.

7. Discuss the following questions and write the answers in your notebook.

(a) Appearances are deceptive. Discuss with reference to the two boys.

Answer

'Appearences are deceptive'. It is very much true in the case of two boys but in the positive sense. In spite of their appearance, the narrator bought fruit from them. In the following days, the narrator discovered that the boys did a lot of other things apart from selling fruit: they sold newspapers, they were shoeshine boys, tourist guides and ran errands. All this made the narrator think that the boys were working so hard to save money to emigrate to America. However, it is revealed during the course of the story that their only motive was to be able to pay for their sister’s treatment. War had destroyed most of their family and yet it had not filled them with despair. The boys were working day and night to save whatever was left. Behind their shabby appearances were hidden two noble souls whose dedication and selflessness promises a new hope for mankind.

(b) Do you think the boys looked after Lucia willingly? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

The boys loved their sister. She was the only family left after the war was over.When they realized that their sister had tuberculosis of the spine, they got her admitted to a hospital.The ultimate mission of the boys’ life centered on the welfare of their sister Lucia. Day and night, they slogged and starved only to provide for medical expenses for Lucia. This couldn’t have been done without their will and desire.

(c) How does the story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' promise hope for society?

Answer

Both Nicola and Jacopo show selflessness and reflect great dignity in their behaviour. They are deeply devoted to save their sister. In their earnest endeavour they become role models, epitomes of sacrifice who can enlighten the path for rest of the humanity to follow.
8. Look at the Italic words in the following examples.

(a) We bought their biggest basket, then set off toward town.
(b) One night we came upon them in the windy and deserted square.
(c) He bit his lip, then in a rather put out tone he said, 'Very well.'
(d) I shook my head and turned away.

Here are a few more. Match the phrases to their meanings.

Phrases	Meanings
set up	to start on a journey
break down	to tolerate a situation or a person
set off	to lose control of your feelings and start crying
put up	with to enter
put off	to be faced with or opposed by
put on	to start/ establish a company
come in	to refuse/ reject
come across	to postpone
come up against	to try to get help/advice/ sympathy from someone
turn down	to wear
turn in to	meet or find by chance
turn to	to inform on or deliver up

Now use the phrases given above to complete the following sentences.

1. The landlord was suspicious of the two men staying in his flat so he called the police and _____________them _____________
2. Early in the morning we packed our bags and _____________ for a hike over the mountain.
3. Janvi _____________some photographs of her grandfather in the old trunk.
4. My father _____________ his own business 10 years ago.
5. The Bank _____________ Paul's request for a loan.
6. The Corporation's decision to reduce the leave of the employees _____________ a lot of opposition.

Answer

Phrases	Meanings
Set up	to start / establish a company.
Break down	to lose control of your feelings and start crying.
Set off	to start on a journey.
Put up	to tolerate a situation or a person
Put off	to postpone
Put on	to wear
Come in	to enter
Come across	to meet or find by chance
Come up against	to be faced with or opposed by
Turn down	to refuse/ reject
Turn in to	to inform or deliver up
Turn to	to try to get help/advice/ sympathy from someone

1. The landlord was suspicious of the two men staying in his flat so he called the police and turned them in

2. Early in the morning we packed our bags and set off for a hike over the mountain.

3. Janvi came across some photographs of her grandfather in the old trunk.

4. My father set up his own business 10 years ago.

5. The Bank turned down Paul's request for a loan.

6. The Corporation's decision to reduce the leave of the employees come up against a lot of opposition.

Page No: 10

10. The narrator realises why Nicola and Jacopo work so hard. Yet he does not go in to meet their sister nor does he speak to them about what he learns from the nurse. Working in groups, discuss the follwoing aspects of the story and share your views with the class.

(a) The love and devotion, and the family values Nicola and Jacopo display.

Answer

Nicola is only 13 years old and Jacopo is 12. Yet, they have a man's heart each. They work hard day an night, never mind doing petty jobs like vending strawberries, hawking newspapers, polishing sjoes. They show tourists round the town and run errands. They do all this to earn money which is used for the traetement of their sister who has been suffering from tuberculosis of spine. It vividly depicts their love, devotion and the family values.

(b) Their pride in themselves and their family

Answer

Nicola and Jacopo are not ashamed of doing petty jobs to earn money for the treatment of their sister, Lucia who is afflicted with tuberculosis. War has not broken thei spirits. They are proud of themselves and their family. Though children, they do not want any help or favour from anyone. It shows their pride in thmslves and their family.

(c) The trust they place in the narrator

Answer

Before leaving, the narrator asks if he would be of any help to them, Jacopo requests the narrator to send them to Poleta in their car which they might not have asked anybody. After initial disagreement between the brothers and reassurance from the narrator they agree to go with him. They are very comfortable and trust him completely.

(d) The reason the narrator does not disclose to them that he knows their secret.

Answer

Nicola initially is not comfortable with the narrator driving them to Poleta. After some thinking they agree.The moment they reach their destination they jump out of the car and do not ask the narrator to come with them. On the other hand, they suggest him to spend time at a café in the village. The narrator understands their reluctance to share their purpose of visit with him and, therefore, does not disclose to them that he knows their secret.

Writing

11. As the narrator, write an article on the lesson of love, faith and trust that you have learnt from the two young boys of Verona.

Answer

IT DOESN’T TAKE YEARS TO GAIN MATURITY

Tragedies and adversities either bring out the best, or the worst, among people. They prove to be great testing times which end up in glory or disaster. The bitter and indomitable struggle of Nicola
and Jacopo, amidst the ravages of war, takes on epic proportions. The two young boys depict great maturity, wisdom and faith in the invincibility of human spirit. The die-hard nature of two boys
changes the nature of people around them, with their vibrant spark of humanity.

The two boys not only create a home to survive from the rubble, but pitch in their best efforts to
sustain their sister Lucia. Their intrinsic vitality encourages them to take up any work that is available i.e. shining shoes, selling newspapers and fruits or escorting the tourists for sightseeing.

They don’t mind eating black bread or figs, or wearing torn clothes because they’re single-mindedly focused on their sister’s treatment. The boys resort to any kind of emotional blackmail or charity to provide for their sister. Their dignity and perseverance show their extreme faith in their own ability to cater to their sister’s medical treatment.
So, the relentless struggle of two boys offers a kaleidoscopic view of love, tenderness, wisdom and trust, which even a catastrophic war failed to crush.

12. After her brothers' visit, Lucia writes a page in her diary about her past life and her present situation. As Lucia write the diary entry in about 150 words.
Answer

30th November
Dear Diary

I am very happy today because my brothers Nicola and Jacopo came to see me. They told me that they had come with a kind man by car. Jacopo was chirping. You know, he is as lively as a squirrel. Nicola is mature like a man. He looks after me as parents. How loving and affectionate they are!
I feel very lonely when they are not here. I know, they have to go to city to find some work thee. After all, they have to pay the hospital charges every week.
The demon of war has snatched our comfortable and cultured life. Dear Father, I remember, dear father was a famous singer. I, myself, had been training as a singer. But the Germans came with their bombs and destroyed our home. We are homeless, starbing and suffering. It was a bad winter.
For months, we had to keep ourselves alive in a sort of shelter we built with our own hands amidst the rubble. For three years, the Germans ruled the city. We grew up to hate the Germans. Both of them joined the resistance movement. last year when the war was over, we had peace at lat. they came back. They found me ailing. I was diagnosed suffering from tuberclosis of the spine.
They brought me in the hospital. Now, I am showing steady recovery. One day I will walk and sing again.
This is all due to their efforts. I understand that they at this young age. Normally, an elder siblings looks after the younger ones, takes care of them. In my case, it is opposite. I will eb greatful to them for the sacrifice they are making for me. They are embodiments of love, devotion and sincerity. They are my family. Moreover, they are my God on this earth. I am indebted to them for what they are doing forever. I owe them my gratitude.
May God bless these noble souls long and happy life!
Amen!
Lucia


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 2 Mrs Packletide's Tiger English

November 30, 2014, 5:11 am

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Chapter 2 Mrs Packletide's Tiger Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By Saki

Page No: 12

It was Mrs. Packletide's pleasure and intention that she should shoot a tiger …. The compelling motive ….was the fact that Loona Bimberton had recently …… personally procured tiger-skin and a heavy harvest of Press photographs could successfully counter that sort of thing.

(a) Why did Mrs. Packletide want to kill a tiger?

Answer

Mrs. Packletide was jealous of her rival, Loona Bimberton, who had recently travelled 11 kilometres in an airplane operated by an Algerian aviator. In order to outclass her, Mrs. Packletide decided to hunt a tiger and gain media coverage through her pictures.

(b) What does it tell you about her?

Answer

Mrs. Packletide is full of vanity. She is a selfish person who seems to be jealous at other people’s success.

(c) What is the tone of the storywriter?

Answer

The tone of the story writer is full of satire and humour.

(d) Do you think she was successful in her mission?

Answer

In a way,yes. She was successful in outshining Loona Bimberton by killing a tiger and getting fame for doing that. But actually she was a failure, as she missed her shot and the tiger died due to heart failure.

(e) What do you think the story is all about?

Answer

The story is all about a pursuit of killing a tiger by Mrs. Packletide.

Page No: 16

4. Answer the following questions in your own words:

(a) Why did Mrs. Packletide wish to kill a tiger?

Answer

Mrs. Packletide wished to kill a tiger so that she could counter to Loona Bimberton’s claim who had been carried eleven miles in an Algerian aviator.

(b) What made her decide to give a party in Loona Bimberton's honour? What did she intend to give Loona on her birthday?

Answer

Mrs.Packletide decided that once she shot a tiger, she would invite Loona Bimberton for a luncheon party. At the party she would display the newly-acquired tiger skin. The party would be an appropriate time to show off the tiger skin and talk about her tiger-shooting experience to Loona Bimberton. She intended to give a tiger-claw brooch to Loona Bimberton on her birthday.

(c) How was the tiger shooting arranged? What kind of a tiger was chosen for the purpose?

Answer

The tiger shooting was arranged in neigbouring village. The villagers had seen an old tiger who used to hunt domestic animals on the outskirts of the local jungle. A platform or Machaan was built in a comfortable and conviniently placed tree for Mrs. Packletide and her paid compnion Miss Louisa Mebbin. A noisy goat was tethred at the correct ditance to attract the tiger.
The tiger chosen for this purpose was weak, diseased tiger who could not hunt wild animals due to old age.

(d) In what way did the villagers help Mrs. Packletide shoot the tiger?

Answer

The villagers made many arrangements for the hunting game.Children were posted night and day on the outskirts so that the tiger would not leave his domain. Goats were left in the forest in order to satisfy the animal. Women took care not to make noise while passing by, so that the tiger would not be disturbed. Last but not the least, the villagers offered support and assistance at night of hunt. A platform had been constructed on a comfortable and convenient place on a tree for Mrs. Packletide and her paid companion. They remained there throughout the night.

(e) Who was Miss Mebbin? Was she really devoted to Mrs. Packletide? How did she behave during the tiger shooting?

Answer

Miss Mebbin was a paid companion. Mrs. Packletide had acquired her so that she could witness the shooting of the tiger. She was very materialistic. She didn’t want to do more than she was paid for. In fact she also instigated Mrs. Packletide not to pay for the goat if the tiger did not eat it. She was not at all devoted to Mrs. Packletide. She was there only for the money.

(f) Mrs. Packletide was a good shot. Discuss.

Answer

Mrs. Packletide was daring and bold enough to go for hunting a tiger which was oldand weak. She was not a good shot at all. Inspite of all the arrangements, she was not able to shoot the old tiger who was walkin slowly. Instead, she shot the goat as she had missed her aim.

(g) What comment did Miss Mebbin make after Mrs Packletide had fired the shot?
Why did Miss Mebbin make this comment? How did Mrs Packletide react to this comment?

Answer

Miss Mebbin commented that the bullet had shot the goat not the tiger. The tiger had succumbed to heart failure caused by the sound of firing accelerated by senile decay.
She made this comment to take advantageof the fact that the tiger was not killed by Mrs. packletide. In fact, she wanted to exploit the situation. Mrs. packletide was annoyed at the discovery.

(h) How did the villagers react to the tiger's death?

Answer

The villagers were anxious for their thousand rupees. They did not pay any heed to Miss Mebbin’s revelation that Mrs. Packletide had not killed a tiger but a goat. They readily believed that Mrs. Packletide had shot the beast lest they lose their money.

(i) Do you think Mrs. Packletide was able to achieve her heart's desire? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

Yes, I think Mrs. Packletide was able to achieve her heart's desire of killing a tiger and to show off that she was the possessor of a dead tiger. She wanted her photographs to be published in the newspapers. Her desire was accomplished positively. She was able to outdo Loona Bimberton and she sent her a gift of a tiger-claw brooch.

(j) How did Miss Mebbin manage to get her week-end cottage? Why did she plant so many tiger lilies in her garden?

Answer

Louisa Mebbin blackmailed Mrs. Packletide into buying her the weekend cottage or else she would have told Loona Bimberton that it was not the tiger but a mere goat that Mrs. Packletide had shot. The tiger lilies would always remind of how she had procured the cottage.

(k) "The incidental expenses are so heavy," she confides to inquiring friends. Who is the speaker? What is she referring to here?

Answer

Mrs. Packletide is the speaker. The lines are said in response to questions regarding why she did not hunt anymore. Mrs. Packletide is referred to the expenses that she incurred when she hunted for the first time, she paid the villagers, she paid Louisa Mebbin and even had to buy her a cottage.

Page No: 17

5. Discuss the following questions in detail and write the answers in your notebooks:

(a) Do you think the tiger shooting organized by the villagers was a serious affair? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer
The tiger shooting organised by the villagers was not a serious affair at all. They knew it was an old senile tiger. It could not run or escape due to its weakness. So, it would be easy to kill it insanstaneously. They posted their children to keep the tiger in the outskirts of the jubgle so that it might not roam away to fresh hunting grounds. They left cheap goats to keep him satisfied with the present quarters lest he should die of old age before the appointed lady. In this way, they provided the favourable oppurtunity of shooting a tiger without over-much risk.

(b) Do you think the writer is trying to make fun of the main characters in the story i.e. Mrs. Packletide, Miss Mebbin and Loona Bimberton? Pick out instances from the story that point to this fact.

Answer

Yes, the writer is trying to make fun of the main characters in the story. Mrs. Packletide wanted to kill a tiger because of her jealousy and a desire to outshine Loona. Loona was a lady of boastful nature. She also grew jealous when she saw Mrs. Packletide's photo in the newspaper. She refused to attend the lunch party arranged in her honour by Mrs. Packletide. Miss Mebbin was very manipulative, shrewd and materialistic lady. She adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money. Moreover, the shooting of an old and weak tiger, who has lost his strength and ferociousness is also very humourous. Its death due to heart failure instead of a bullet arouses laughter.

(c) A person who is vain is full of self importance and can only think of himself/herself and can go to great lengths to prove his/her superiority. Do you think Mrs Packletide is vain? Give reasons in support of your answer.

Answer

The story begins with Mrs. Packletide’s obsession to procure a tiger skin so that she can show it off to Loona Bimberton. To obtain the tiger skin Mrs.Packletide goes to extreme lengths; she offers a thousand rupees to the villagers to shoot a tiger without much risk or exertion. She acquires a paid companion, Louisa Mebbin, a witness to her extraordinary feat. She makes sure her pictures appear in international newspapers. Finally, she buys a weekend cottage for Louisa Mebbin to prevent her from telling anybody that it was not the tiger but a goat she had shot because the tiger merely died of a heart attack. All this proves that Mrs. Packletide was a vain woman.

(d) Sometimes writers highlight certain negative aspects in society or human beings by making fun of it. This is called satire. In your groups discuss whether you would classify this story as a satire. Give reasons to support your answer

Answer

The story is excellent example of satire. The writer, Saki, has satrized the jealousy and vanity of the fair sex. They want to to show off their self importance and think of themselves only. To prove their supriority, they can go to any length. The author not only makes fun of the situation but also of the characters. Mrs. Packeltide’s actions were largely directed by dislike of Loona Bimberton. The motive behind tiger hunt was to show off to her. Loona Bimberton did not look at Mrs. Packletide’s pictures in the newspapers. Her letter of thanks for the tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions. She declined to attend the luncheon party because she wouldn’t be able to see people praising Mrs. Packletide. Both Louisa Mebbin and the villagers are only concerned about their remuneration. Louisa Mebbin even blackmailed Mrs. Packletide into buying her a cottage. The villagers happily believed that Mrs. Packletide had shot the tiger and not the goat lest they lose their fee. The whole situation of the tiger hunt is also laced with satire. An old tiger who had given up hunting was chosen for the purpose. The tiger dies of a heart-failure than a gun shot. The author paints a picture of a society that is essentially governed by wealth and mutual dislike for each other.

(e) How does the writer create humor in this story?

Answer

The author makes fun of each character and situation. The characters of Loona Bimberton, Mrs. Packletide, Louisa Mebbin and the villagers are all ridiculed for their peculiar character traits.The tiger hunt is mocked a; an old, infirm tiger is chosen for the hunt making it the least dangerous expedition. The power of money is so strong that the villagers agree that it was not a goat but a tiger that was shot. Louisa Mebbin agrees to keep this a secret in return of money. Thus the author creates humour in the story by highlighting the negative aspects in society or human beings.

6. Choose extracts from the story that illustrate the character of the people listed in the table given below. There are some words given to help you. You may add words of your own. One has been done as an example:

vain

jealous

competitive

shrewd

manipulative

stingy

materialistic

spiteful

Character	Extract from the story	What this tells us about the character
Mrs. Packletide	(i) The compelling motive for her sudden deviation towards the footsteps of Nimrod was the fact that Loona Bimberton had recently been carried eleven miles in an aeroplane by an Algerian aviator, and talked of nothing else; only a personally procured tiger-skin and a heavy harvest of Press photographs could successfully counter that sort of thing	Competitive
	(ii) Mrs. Packletide had offered a thousand rupees for the opportunity of shooting a tiger without over-much risk or exertion,	_____________
	(iii) Mrs. Packletide faced the cameras with a light heart, and her pictured fame reached from the pages of the Texas Weekly Snapshot to the illustrated Monday upplement of the Novoe Vremya.	_____________
Louisa Mebbin	(i) "If it's an old tiger I think you ought to get it cheaper. A thousand rupees is a lot of money."	_____________
	(ii) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money in general, irrespective of nationality or denomination	_____________
	(iii) "How amused everyone would be if they knew what really happened," said Louisa Mebbin a few days after the ball.	_____________
	(iv) Louisa Mebbin's pretty week-end cottage, christened by her "Les Fauves," and gay in summer-time with its garden borders of tiger-lilies, is the wonder and admiration of her friends	_____________
Loona Bimberton	(i) As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions	_____________
	(ii) there are limits beyond which repressed emotions become dangerous.	_______________

Answer

Character	Extract from the story	What this tells us about the character
Mrs. Packletide	(i) The compelling motive for her sudden deviation towards the footsteps of Nimrod was the fact that Loona Bimberton had recently been carried eleven miles in an aeroplane by an Algerian aviator, and talked of nothing else; only a personally procured tiger-skin and a heavy harvest of Press photographs could successfully counter that sort of thing	Competitive
	(ii) Mrs. Packletide had offered a thousand rupees for the opportunity of shooting a tiger without over-much risk or exertion,	Manipulative
	(iii) Mrs. Packletide faced the cameras with a light heart, and her pictured fame reached from the pages of the Texas Weekly Snapshot to the illustrated Monday upplement of the Novoe Vremya.	Vain
Louisa Mebbin	(i) “If it’s an old tiger I think you ought to get it cheaper. A thousand rupees is a lot of money.”	Stingy
	(ii) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money in general, irrespective of nationality or denomination	Materialistic
	(iii) "How amused everyone would be if they knew what really happened," said Louisa Mebbin a few days after the ball.	Shrewd
	(iv) Louisa Mebbin's pretty week-end cottage, christened by her "Les Fauves," and gay in summer-time with its garden borders of tiger-lilies, is the wonder and admiration of her friends	Spiteful
Loona Bimberton	(i) As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions	Jealous
	(ii) there are limits beyond which repressed emotions become dangerous.	Spiteful

Page No: 19

7. There are many amusing lines in the story. Here are a few of them. Rewrite each one in ordinary prose so that the meaning is retained. One has been done for you as an example:

(b) Mrs. Packletide had already arranged in her mind the lunch she would give at her house in Curzon Street, ostensibly in Loona Bimberton's honour, with a tiger-skin rug occupying most of the foreground and all of the conversation.
________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Answer

Mrs. Packletide had already imagined the lunch party she would have, supposedly in honour of Loona Bimberton, where she would display the tiger-skin rug and talk about the tiger hunt.
(c) Mothers carrying their babies home through the jungle after the day's work in the fields hushed their singing lest they might curtail the restful sleep of the venerable herd-robber.
________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Answer

Mothers, with thier babies, after the day's work, walked past the jungle in complete silence so as not to disturb the sleep of the esteemed lion.

(d) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money in general, irrespective of nationality or denomination
________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Answer

Louisa Mebbin was very particular about money, irrespective of nationality or denomination.

(e) Evidently the wrong animal had been hit, and the beast of prey had succumbed to heart-failure, caused by the sudden report of the rifle, accelerated by senile decay
________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Answer

It was clear that the wrong animal had been shot. The lion had died of heart-failure caused by the gun shot and hastened by old age.

(f) As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions
________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Answer

Loona Bimberton did not read the illustrated newspaper for weeks and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was written in the form which could hide her true feelings.

8. The story Mrs. Packletide's Tiger has a number of oxymorons. Can you identify them and write them down in your notebooks?

Answer

List of oxymorons used in the story:
Over-much risk
Elaborate carelessness
Immeasurably nearer
Gladly connived
Pardonably annoyed


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Class 10th NCERT Solutions: Ch 3 The Letter English

November 30, 2014, 7:33 am

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Chapter 3 The Letter Literature Reader English NCERT Solutions

By Dhumaketu

Page No: 29

4. Answer the following questions by ticking the correct options:

(a) Ali's walking to the Post Office daily even in biting cold weather shows his ________.
(i) courage
(ii) optimism
(iii) foolishness
(iv) strength of will

Answer

(iv) strength of will

(b) The Post Office is referred to as Ali's "place of pilgrimage" as he__________.
(i) visited it daily
(ii) came there to pray for a letter from his daughter
(iii) went there with faith and hope
(iv) believed God would bless him if he went there

Answer

(iii) went there with faith and hope

(c) The Post Master's rudeness to Ali reveals his ___________________.
(i) lack of empathy
(ii) preoccupation with his work
(iii) preconceived notions
(iv) sensitivity

Answer

(i) lack of empathy

(d) Ali did not come to the Post Office for several days as _____________________.
(i) he had given up hope
(ii) he was upset by the Post Master's rebuke
(iii) he was unwell and not able to walk to the Post Office
(iv) he was busy hunting

Answer

(iii) he was unwell and not able to walk to the Post Office

(e) "Tortured by doubt and remorse, he sat down in the glow of the charcoal sigri to wait."
The Post Master was waiting for____________________________.
(i) a letter from Miriam
(ii) a letter from his own daughter
(iii) a letter from Ali
(iv) Ali to deliver Miriam's letter to him.

Answer

(ii) a letter from his own daughter

Page No: 30

5. Answer the following questions briefly.

(a) Who was Ali? Where did he go daily?

Answer

Ali was a clever and crack shot hunter, Coachman. He was so obsessed with hunting that not a day would pass when he would not hunt. He would go to the post office daily.

(b) "Ali displays qualities of love and patience". Give evidence from the story to support the statement.

Answer

Ali had been visiting the post office regularly for last five years to get a letter from his only daughter, Miriam about her well-being. He was the first one to arrive at the post office and last one to go. Such wasthe height of his love for his daughter. He even suffered insult, humiliation and ridicule of the post office employees patiently. Though he hd grown extremely old and frail and his end was drwaing near, yet he gave five gold guinneas to Lakshmi Das, a post office clerk, to deliver the letter at his grave. So he was an epitome of love , patience, hope and faith.

(c) How do you know Ali was a familiar figure at the post office?

Answer

Ali was a well known figure at the post office because he had been visitng the post office reularly for last five years. He sat on the same bench everyday waiting for his name to be called. The postmen made fun of him. Even though there would be no letter for him, they would call out his name, just to see his reaction. The post office became a place of pilgrimage for Ali. Even bad weather could not deter him. He was always the first one to arrive to the post office.

(d) Why did Ali give up hunting?

Answer

His only daughter Miriam got married and left him. Ali then understood the real meaning of love and
separation. So he gave up hunting.

(e) What impression do you form of the postmaster after reading the story 'The Letter'?

Answer

In the begining the postmaster appears to be haughty, arrogant, ill-tempered, unfeeling, selfish, impatient, insenstive, indifferent, irresponsible and unresponsive. His face is as inexpressive as a pumpkin. There is no sign of loveliness in his features. He does not understand Ali's feelings and anxiety. He considers Ali a mad man and revbuke him by calling him a 'pest'.But, he undergoes a complete transformation when he himself faces the mental trauma of not getting the news of his own daughter's well-being. Now he realises the pain and suffering of Ali. He is full of remorse, guilt and repentance. He becomes loving, caring, helpful and sympathetic.

(f) The postmaster says to Ali, "What a pest you are, brother!" Do you agree with the statement? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

Ali used to go to the post office daily. He would go and sit at a particular bench everyday, waiting for his name to be called out. He would not bother anyone. On that particular day, he had come to the post office after several days as he had fallen ill. Since he had not come for many days, he enquired for his letter from the postmaster. The postmaster, who was in a hurry to leave, lost his temper on Ali and called him a pest. Ali was not at all a pest; it was just that he came after many days so he was curious to know whether a letter had come for him.

(g) "Ali came out very slowly, turning after every few steps to gaze at the post office. His eyes were filled with tears of helplessness, for his patience was exhausted, even though he still had faith." Why were Ali's eyes filled with tears of helplessness? What had exhausted his patience but not his faith?

Answer

Ali had waited endlessly for his daughter’s letter, he felt helpless. The employees at the post-office made fun of him but he couldn’t resist the temptation of seeing Miriam’s letter. When he was insulted by the post master, who called him a ‘pest’, Ali’s patience was exhausted but his unflagging hope told him that a letter would surely arrive.

(h) "Tortured by doubt and remorse, he sat down in the glow of the charcoal sigri to wait." Who is tortured by doubt and remorse? Why? What is he waiting for?

Answer

The postmaster is tortured by doubt and remorse. He is filled with remorse because he failed to understand Ali’s concern about his daughter. The postmaster’s daughter was unwell and he anxiously waited for some news of her. When he saw an envelope of a shape and colour that he expected, he quickly snatched it. However, it was not addressed to him but to Ali. His disappointment at not receiving any news of his daughter made him realize the sorrow and pain of Ali who had waited for five years for some news from his daughter.

Page No: 31

6.

Loneliness	Grief
An old man was walking through the town, now and again drawing his tattered clothes tighter to shield his body from the cold and biting wind. His lonely way	The whole town was wrapped in deathly silence

Answer

Loneliness

Grief

An old man was walking through the town, now and again drawing his tattered clothes tighter to shield his body from the cold and biting wind. His lonely way The old man went back slowly to the bench on which he had been accustomed to sit for five long years. …such loneliness had come into his life since the day Miriam had gone away, that now, forgetting his sport, he would become lost in the admiration of the green of the green cornfield. A pitiable figure, a century behind his time.

The whole town was wrapped in deathly silence …for the last five years he had no news of this daughter for whose sake alone he dragged along a cheerless existence. …that the grief of separation is inescapable. …he sat down under a tree and wept bitterly. His eyes were filled with tears of helplessness…

7. Complete the table by explaining the following phrases/ sentences in your own words:

Phrases	Meanings
happy memories light up a life that is nearing its close
the sounds helped him along his lonely way
the cold used sleep to extend its sway over all things even as a false friend lulls his chosen victim with caressing smiles
when the evening of his life was drawing in, he left his old ways and suddenly took a new turn
the whole universe is built up through love and that the grief of separation is inescapable
the post-master, a man with a face as sad and as inexpressive as a pumpkin, would be seen sitting on his chair inside
And so the clerk, like a worshipper of Vishnu, repeated his customary thousand names
The haughty temper of the official had quite left him in his sorrow and anxiety, and had laid bare his human heart

Answer

Happy memories are a source of joy when one is old and about to die.

The sounds of grinding mills, women singing at work were like a company in his otherwise long, lonely journey from his home to the post office.

The early morning cold induced sleep as a result everybody would be fast asleep and there would be no activity. The early morning cold is just like a person who pretends to be a friend influences its victim with sweet talk.

When Ali grew old, he gave up hunting as he could now understand the pain of getting separated from a loved one. Life had changed for him. His only daughter got married and left him.

Ali after being separated from his daughter realized that the whole world is made of love and the pain of separation is unbearable.

The postmaster had a cheerless and expressionless face just like a pumpkin and would always be seen sitting on his chair inside the post office.

Just as a follower of lord Vishnu would utter thousand names of Vishnu everyday, the clerk would call out the usual names for whom the letters came everyday.

As the postmaster eagerly awaited news from his daughter, he realized how arrogant and indifferent he was. Just like Ali, he was also worried for his daughter.
Page No: 32

Writing Task

9. Tortured by doubt and remorse, the postmaster sits in the glow of a charcoal sigri that night, waiting for news of his daughter. As he sits, he writes his diary.

As the postmaster, write a diary entry in about 150 words outlining your feelings about the day's events.

Answer

30th November
Dear Diary

I am inundated with the feelings of doubt and remorse at what happened today. I have been waiting anxiously for the news of my daughter's well being who lay ill at a distant town. I saw an envelop of the colour and shape I had expected to recieve. But to my surprise, it was addressed to Coachman Ali from his daughter Miriam. I dropped it once as if it had given me an electric shock. I could not sleep whole night. I realised my folly for being rude, unsympathetic and ununderstanding to Ali. I never tried to realised the anguish, pain and suffering of a father who had been waiting anxiously for his daughter's letter for last five years. I once even rebuked him by calling hima  'pest'. I failed to understand the pain and grief of seperation that Ali was undergoing. Now I realised my stupidity for being indifferent and insensitive to him. I decided to handover the letter to Ali.
At the stroke of five I heard a soft knock on the door. Feeling sure it was Ali, I rose quickly from the chair and flung the door wide open. Ali was standing outside, leaning on a stick bent double with age. Tears were wet on his face. His eyes had an unearthly light. I shrank back in fear and astonishement. But soon, Lakshmi Das who appeared from another quarter told me that Ali had died three months ago. I was confused. I was overwhelmed with the feelings of doubt. Had I really seen Ali or had my imagination deceived me? Now I understand the pangs of seperation because it has been well said, "Only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches". I regret my rude behaviou twoards Ali.

XXX


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 4 A Shady Plot English

December 1, 2014, 7:52 pm

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Chapter 4 The Shady Plot Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By Elsie Brown

Page No: 33

1. Given below is a list of words related to ghosts and ghost stories with their jumbled up meanings against them. Match the words/expressions with their correct meanings:

Apparition	a feeling of anticipation of or anxiety over a future event
Poltergeist	a reanimated corpse that is believed to rise from the grave at night to suck the blood of sleeping people
Clairvoyance	a conjurer who expels evil spirits by conjuration
Crystal Ball	a spelling board device intended to communicate with and through the spirit world, obtaining answers to questions
Eerie	beyond the range of normal experience or scientific explanation
Medium	any of a set of 22 playing cards bearing allegorical representations, used for fortune telling
Transmigration	a supernatural appearance of a person or thing, a ghost, spectre or phantom
Psychic	so mysterious, strange, or unexpected as to send a chill up the spine
Ouija Board	the supposed power to see objects or events that cannot be perceived by the senses
Exorcist	a person through whom the spirits of the dead are alleged to be able to contact the living
Premonition	a globe of quartz crystal in which images, believed to portend the future, are supposedly visible to fortune tellers
Paranormal	to pass into another body after death: going from one state of existence or place to another
Tarot Card	capable of extraordinary mental processes, such as extrasensory perception and mental telepathy
Vampire	German word, meaning "noisy ghost"-a troublesome spirit that announces its presence with unexplainable sounds and the creation of disorder

Answer

Apparition	a supernatural appearance of a person or thing, a ghost, a spectre or phantom
Poltergeist	German word, meaning “noisy ghost”−a troublesome spirit that announces it’s presences with unexplainable sounds and the creation of disorder
Clairvoyance	the supposed power to see objects or events that cannot be perceived by the senses
Crystal Ball	a globe of quartz crystal in which images, believed to portend the future, are supposedly visible to fortune tellers
Eerie	so mysterious, strange, or unexpected as to chill up the spine
Medium	a person through whom the spirits of the dead are alleged to be able to contact the living
Transmigration	to pass into another body after death: going from one state of existence or place to another.
Psychic	capable of extraordinary mental processes, such as extrasensory perception and mental telepathy
Ouija Board	a spelling board device intended to communicate with and through the spirit world, obtaining answers to questions.
Exorcist	a conjurer who expels evil spirits by conjuration
Premonition	a feeling of anticipation of or anxiety over a future event
Paranormal	beyond the range of normal experience or scientific explanation
Tarot Card	any of a set of 22 playing cards bearing allegorical representations, used for fortune telling
Vampire	a reanimated corpse that is believed to rise from the grave at night to suck the blood of sleeping people

Page No: 46

4. Based on your reading of the story above, answer the following questions by ticking the correct options.

1. The narrator earns his living by ………………………….
(a) writing ghost stories
(b) working as a reader for a magazine
(c) working as a stenographer
(d) working as an accountant in a lumber company

Answer

(d) working as an accountant in a lumber company

2.The writer was overconfident about his ability to write ghost stories because ……
(a) whenever magazines wanted a ghost story, they got in touch with him
(b) he was always able to write a ghost story whenever he had to write one
(c) the readers appreciated his ghost stories
(d) he knew the ghost lady would help him write a good ghost story

Answer

(b) he was always able to write a ghost story whenever he had to write one

3. The sight of the ghost materialising in his room filled the narrator with ………
(a) fear
(b) excitement
(c) joy
(d) anticipation

Answer

(a) fear

4. The ghost wanted John to …………………………………………..
(a) stop his wife from using the Ouija board
(b) stop using the Ouija board himself
(c) stop his guests from using the Ouija board
(d) stop people from using the Ouija board

Answer

(d) stop people from using the Ouija board

5.John wants the ghost to disappear before his wife enters the room and waves his arms at the ghost with something of the motion of a beginner when learning to swim. His movement shows his ………………………
(a) fear
(b) amusement
(c) desperation
(d) anxiety

Answer

(d) anxiety

6. When the narrator says his wife is never so pretty as when she's doing something she knows he disapproves of, his tone is …………………….
(a) amused
(b) ironic
(c) angry
(d) irritated

Answer

(b) ironic

7. The ghost says "It's all your fault.'It' here refers to ………………………
(a) the narrator’s wife’s anger
(b) the ghost's anger
(c) the narrator's wife leaving him
(d) the ghost materialising in sections.

Answer

(d) the ghost materialising in sections.

8. Gladolia wishes to leave the narrator's house as ………………….
(a) she does not like the Ouija boards
(b) she is afraid of the ghost
(c) she is afraid of magic and hoodoo
(d) she likes Ouija boards and hoodoo

Answer

(c) she is afraid of magic and hoodoo

Page No: 48

5. Answer the following questions briefly.


(a) What genre of stories does Jenkins want the narrator to write? Why?

Answer

Jenkins wanted the narrator to write fictions about ghosts i.e. ghost stories. He wanted supernatural theme which gave horror to the public as ghosts were live propositions.

(b) Does the narrator like writing ghost stories? Support your answer with evidence from the story.

Answer

No, the writer was not fond of writing ghost stories at all. He himself says 'I didn't specialize in ghost stories.' Whenever he sat down to write a ghost story, he hadn't the shade of an idea. He had chased the inspiration in vain for months when he started writing ghost fiction for the first time. This all shows that the narrator was, though natural, an accidental ghost fiction writer.

(c) What makes Helen, the ghost, and her other co-ghosts organize The Writer's Inspiration Bureau?

Answer

Helen and other co-ghosts organised The Writer’s Insipiration Bureau because they felt there were many writers without ideas, however, with a vulnerable mind who were looking for an inspiration to write ghost stories. The bureau would assign a ghost to such a writer so that he/she could write good ghost stories.

(d) Why had Helen, the ghost been helping the narrator write ghost stories? Why was she going on strike? What condition did she place for providing continued help?

Answer

Helen had helped the narrator because he was keen to write ghost stories but had no ideas and his mind was impressionable. But now the ghosts were fed up of being called too often from their beds. They had given up haunting and had taken up answering questions on the Ouija board but people had started pestering them too of- ten. Helen promised to help the narrator if he would get his friends and acquaintances to stop using the Ouija board.

(e) How does the ghost undermine the narrator's faith in his ability to write ghost stories?

Answer

The narrator is sure that ghost stories specialize in him. He never refuses Jenkins whenever he demands a ghost story for his magazine. He had always been able to dig up one for him. So e has started feeling overconfident about his ability to write on the supernatural everytime. But the lady ghost tells him that he always call her to help him in writing a ghost story. Many a time she has leaned on his shoulder to give him ideas. Now, he will not get more ideas or plots of ghost stories for him. In this way, th lady ghost undermines the narrator's ability to write ghost stories.

(f) Why does John want the ghost to disappear before his wife appears on the scene? What impression of his wife's character do you form from his words?

Answer

Lavinia, John’s wife, is a jealous lady. John does not want Helen to be seen by his wife for fear of complications in his married life. His wife is over sensitive and the sight of a ghost in her house will affect her badly. Lavinia is basically a lady, who is a spendthrift and socialite, spending her time in parties and friends.

(g) Why does the narrator hesitate to be a partner to Laura Hinkle during the Ouija Board Party?

Answer

Helen, the ghost, had asked the narrator to influence his friends to stop using the Ouija board. It was only on this condition that Helen promised to help the narrator to write ghost stories. If Helen sees him now himself trying to communicate ghosts through Ouija board, he fears how and what she would do to him. That is why the narrator was reluctant to be a partner to Laura Hinkle during the Ouija Board party.

(h) What message does the ghost convey to the group that had assembled in the narrator's house? What is their reaction to the message?

Answer

Helen called John a traitor as he bluffs her. He had promised Helen that he would convince his friends to stop contacting ghosts; rather here he himself was doing the same. She is annoyed and filled with anguish and so goes to everyone’s Ouija board one by one and tells that Mr. Hallock is a traitor. After this revelation everybody suspected John of cheating upon his wife, later John clarified to his wife and she even understood.

(i) Do you agree with the narrator calling the assembly of women "manipulators?" Give reasons.

Answer

Assembly of Women were rightly called 'manipulators' by narrator as they very successfully and crftly manipulated the spirits to answer their questions. The way in which they brought report about Helen's statement about the narrator calling him traitor seemed like manipulation to him.

(j) Why is John's wife angry? What does she decide to do?

Answer

John’s wife is angry because she, like other women, believed what the spirit said through the Ouija board, about her husband. A woman even reported that Helen has called John a traitor. Lavinia thought that her husband was cheating on her. She decided to go to her grandmother’s house. She also decided to separate from her husband.

(k) Why does John wish he were dead?

Answer

John wished he was dead because a brief meeting with a ghost had created such situations that he was about to lose his wife, whom he loved dearly; it destroyed his happiness and home.

(l) When confronted by Lavinia about his flirtations over the Ouija Board, John insists that 'the affair was quite above-board, I assure you, my love'. Bring out the pun in John's statement.

Answer

John assures his wife that his flirtations with Helen the ghost are above board. He tries to tell her that whatever that has happened between him and Helen is over the board of Ouija and there was nothing that he wished to hide from his wife; in fact there was nothing to tell.

(m) John's apprehensions about his wife's reaction to her encounter with the ghost are unfounded. Justify.

Answers

John thought that his wife would become hysterical if she saw the ghost Helen; however, when the encounter happened, she confidently spoke to the ghost and was not at all scared of it.

6. Answer the following questions in detail :

(a) After her reconciliation with her husband, John Hallock, Lavinia writes a letter to her friend expressing how her relationship with him had almost been on the verge of breaking and what saved it. Write her letter.

Answer

Dear Friend,

How are you? Hope you are doing fine. Sorry about delaying in replying to your letter. I was caught in some personal problems. 

I wished to share a life-changing experience with you, my dear. About a month ago I, along with the women in my group, was fascinated with Ouija boards and we organised a party at my home. We were all excited and John had to substitute for someone. The party progressed and you wouldn't believe what happened next. A ghost named Helen tried to communicate with John through all the five boards and called him a traitor. John looked uncomfortable and guilty. I was angry and jealous. I could not believe it and spent the while night crying. By moving I had packed and decided to file diye a divorce. I went to inform John and was shocked when he tried to hide someone in the room from me. I thrust him aside was greeted with a ghost! Can you believe it? She looked like phantom and I understood later that she had been providing John with inspiration for his stories. She was somewhat annoyed with him because she wanted him to convince people to stop using Ouija boards. I am so glad that my marriage did not break up. A ghost saved it, literally!

John and I share a wonderful life now. I hope you enjoyed reading about my encounter with a ghost.
So much for now.
Look forward to your reply.Love
Yours truly
Lavinia

(b) John Hallock reflects upon his experience with Helen's ghost and in retrospect he finds it quite amusing. All the same he is relieved that he is no longer plagued by it. Ironically, the self same ghost inspires his creativity and he writes a diary entry reflecting upon the comical aspect of his experience. Write his diary entry.

Answer

30 November
Dear Diary

The past few days have been a rollercoaster ride for me. I was sitting in my study trying to write a ghost story and suddenly a ghost appeared. At first I could not believe it, however, slowly I got talking to it. She declared that she and other ghosts were going on a strike. Imagine ghosts going on a strike! Apparently, she had helped me write all my earlier ghost stories, as what she claimed. She then appeared in the Ouija board session that my wife had organised for her friends. She called me a traitor openly in front of all my folks. My wife and her friends almost believed that I was cheating on my wife. Lavinia threatened to leave me. Here I was caught between a ghost who threatened to go on a strike and a wife who was on the verge of leaving me. Phew!!
Thankfully Lavinia, got a chance to meet and speak to Helen and her misunderstanding was cleared. One good thing came out of these encounters with Helen, I now have got an idea for my next story. This one is going to be my best story so far.John

Page No: 49

7. The narrator and his wife reveal something about their character in their words and actions. We also learn about them from what other people say. Can you pick out the words that describe them from the box given below? Also, pick out lines and instances from the story to illustrate your choice.

shy	arrogant	loyal	clever	overconfident	Manipulative
protective	self-disparaging	suspicious	sceptical	jealous fearless	Firm
shrewd	strong	gullible	sly	creative	Loves novelty and thrills

Person	Extract from story	What it tells us about the character
John Hallock	1. …in the end things had always come my Hallock way….. somehow I'd always been able to dig one (plot) up for him, so I'd begun to get a bit cocky as to my ability (to write stories).	1. ______________
	2. "But my ghosts aren't a bit like you----".	2. sceptical
	3. We scout around until we find a writer without ideas and with a mind soft enough to accept impression.	3. gullible
	4. __________________________ __________________________	4. creative
	5. __________________________ __________________________	5. protective
Lavinia Hallock	1. __________________________ __________________________	1. loves novelty and thrills
	2. __________________________ __________________________	2. Spendthrift
	3. __________________________ __________________________	3. suspicious
	4. __________________________ __________________________	4. jealous
	5. Buys the Ouija board but says it is for John's research	5. manipulative
	6. Does not flinch when she meets the ghost but talks to her casually.	6. strong

Answer

Person	Extract from story	What it tells us about the character
John Hallock	1. …in the end things had always come my Hallock way….. somehow I'd always been able to dig one (plot) up for him, so I'd begun to get a bit cocky as to my ability (to write stories).	1. Overconfident, self-disparaging
	2. "But my ghosts aren't a bit like you----".	2. sceptical
	3. We scout around until we find a writer without ideas and with a mind soft enough to accept impression.	3. gullible
	4. A ghost story had been the first fiction I had written. Curious how that idea for a plot had come to me out of nowhere after I had chased inspiration in vain for months! Even now whenever Jenkins wanted a ghost, he called on me.	4. creative
	5. I threw a protecting husbandly arm about her to catch her when she should faint.	5. protective
Lavinia Hallock	1. …and how on earth I was going to cure her of her alarming tendency to take every new fad that came along and work it to death.	1. loves novelty and thrills
	2. You know I bought the loveliest thing this afternoon.	2. Spendthrift
	3. Lavinia stopped and began to look at me through narrowed lids much as she had done in the library the evening before.	3. suspicious
	4. She went on, “It is bad enough to have you flirt over the Ouija board with that hussy….. She thrust me back with sudden muscle. “I will see who’s behind you! Where is that Helen?”	4. jealous
	5. Buys the Ouija board but says it is for John's research	5. manipulative
	6. Does not flinch when she meets the ghost but talks to her casually.	6. strong

Page No: 50

8. Gladolia, the narrator's cook, is an African. The language she speaks is different from that of the others. This is known as Dialect. A dialect consists of words or phrases that reflect the regional variety of a language. An author often uses a regional dialect to make the dialogue more authentic. Initially a dialogue may seem a little difficult to understand. However, as you continue reading, the language will become more comprehensible.
Working in groups, write what Gladolia's words mean as shown.

Column A	Column B
Misto Hallock	Mister Hallock
de Missus
sho t'inks you's lost!
she done 'phone you dis mawnin'
fo' de lawd's sake
not to stop to argify now
I's gwine t' quit.
I don't like no hoodoos.
I'se done lef' dis place
I is

Answer

Column A	Column B
Misto Hallock	Mister Hallock
de Missus	the Mrs.
sho t'inks you's lost!	she thinks you are lost
she done 'phone you dis mawnin'	she called you this morning
fo' de lawd's sake	for the Lord’s sake
not to stop to argify now	don’t stop to argue now
I's gwine t' quit.	I am going to quit
I don't like no hoodoos.	I don’t like voodoo magic
I'se done lef' dis place	I am done with this place and I am going to leave this place.
I is	I am

9. Read and understand the following ghost phrases and expressions:

(a) To give up the ghost-- to die or to stop trying
(b) A ghost of a chance-- a poor chance, not likely to happen
(c) The ghost at the feast-- something or someone that spoils your enjoyment by reminding you of something unpleasant
(d) Ghost town-- a town where most people have left-abandoned and deserted
(e) Ghost-write- to write for someone else
(f) Lay the ghost of something/somebody (to rest)-- to finally stop being worried or upset by something or someone that has worried or upset you for a long time
(g) Ghost image -- secondary image, esp. one appearing on a television screen as a white shadow, caused by poor or double reception or by a defect in the receiver
(h) the ghost of a smile - faint trace of a smile
(i) As white as a ghost- very pale or white in the face

Now complete the following story by using the appropriate phrases in the blanks given below:

I was alone in a place that bore a deserted look like that of a ________________. I increased the pace of my footsteps as I walked through the dark forest. I felt someone walking behind me. I turned immediately and spotted the contour of a figure in the form of a ___________________ .

It smiled at me wickedly .I started shaking with fear and perspiring profusely when I felt its skeletal hand upon my neck. I woke up with a start, relieved that it was only a nightmare.

This was not the first time I had had one. It had all started when I had watched the horrendous horror film with a eerie ghost character that had a scary ghost of a smile on its face.It had been almost a month. The strange thing was that I saw a similar face at the station the next morning. That was uncanny.

I was to attend a dinner at my friend's at Northanger Abbey that night. I had decided to narrate my experience to the group that would assemble there although I knew there was _________________________ that they would be convinced.

After everyone had finished pouring their drinks to themselves, I cleared my throat and started narrating my spooky experience. However, every one of the group started accusing me of being _______________________ and held me responsible for spoiling the spirit of revelry. I gave up the ghost and sat quietly waiting for the party to be over. Back at home, the fears returned .I knew I had to talk about my experience to somebody to feel better. I have now decided to ______________ and publish my experience under a pseudonym. Only then can I ____________________.

Answer

I was alone in a place that bore a deserted look like that of a ghost town.

I increased the pace of my footsteps as I walked through the dark forest. I felt someone walking behind me. I turned immediately and spotted the contour of a figure in the form of a ghost image .

It smiled at me wickedly .I started shaking with fear and perspiring profusely when I felt its skeletal hand upon my neck. I woke up with a start, relieved that it was only a nightmare.

This was not the first time I had had one. It had all started when I had watched the horrendous horror film with a eerie ghost character that had a scary ghost of a smile on its face.It had been almost a month. The strange thing was that I saw a similar face at the station the next morning. That was uncanny.

I was to attend a dinner at my friend's at Northanger Abbey that night. I had decided to narrate my experience to the group that would assemble there although I knew there was a ghost of a chance that they would be convinced.

After everyone had finished pouring their drinks to themselves, I cleared my throat and started narrating my spooky experience.

However, every one of the group started accusing me of being the ghost at the feast and held me responsible for spoiling the spirit of revelry. I gave up the ghost and sat quietly waiting for the party to be over. Back at home, the fears returned .I knew I had to talk about my experience to somebody to feel better. I have now decided to ghost write and publish my experience under a pseudonym. Only then can I lay the ghost .

Page No: 52

Writing

11. Do you think a story has an atmosphere? Complete the following blanks to make up your ghost story by choosing the correct options.

A Ghost Story

She opened the _________________ (secret door/ spaceship's hatch/ door of the cottage/ cemetery gate/ door of the castle/ cockpit) _________________ (brashly/ loudly/ silently/ stupidly/ fearfully/ joyously).

Standing in front of her was a ________________ (terrifying/ handsome/ smelly/ anonymous/ tiny/ huge/ bossy) ___________ (policeman/ spy/ apparition/ witch/ prince/ wizard) with a _________________ (wand/ rose/ rod/ knife/ scythe/ coded message) in his/ her (its) _________________ (ghoulish/ bony/ beautiful/ fair/ manly/ gloved/ magical) hand.

Now that you have shared a ghost story/anecdote as well as completed a guided story in the class, create your own Ghost story on the basis of the starters given below:

(a) Stephen knew he would never sleep. The noises, those horrid sounds, would keep him awake...

(b) Tap, tap, tap. Was it the branches of the nearby tree, or fingernails against the window?

(c) People often say, 'There's no such thing as ghosts....

Answer

A Ghost Story

She opened the cemetry gatesilently. 

Standing in front of her was a hugeapparition with a scythe in his bony hand.

M G road was unusually lonely and deserted. It generally is crowded at the time. It was only half past six in the evening. Maybe the unusual downpour had forced people to leave their offices early. Darkness had descended earlier than the usual. Stephen had to stop and wait for the storm to halt. He had to break his journey that night. The weather did not seem to favour him. He spotted a motel and pulled in. He turned the car into their driveway. His room was on the top floor. Stephen knew he would never sleep; new places always unsettled him. As he tossed and turned in the bed, he heard strange noises. The noises died down after sometime, they returned again. Those horrid sounds were keeping him awake. He decided to investigate. Suddenly, he heard tap, tap on the window pane. Was it the branches of the nearby tree, or fingernails against the window? Stephen could not see anything. Maybe it was just a figment of his imagination. He tried going back to sleep; however, the incessant tapping on the window pane kept him awake. Maybe it was a ghost.
The storm seemed to abate a little. Stephen decided to go for a walk. The motel was all quiet except for a faint light at the reception. Stephen saw a frail figure bent over a book, probably trying to read something in that faint light. Stephen was happy. He had company now. He approached the reception. The old man’s back was against him. Stephen cleared his throat to get his attention. As the old man turned around to face Stephen…….Stephen screamed in horror….he had no face….there were just balls of fire in his eye sockets. Stephen ran out of the motel and sped away in his car.
And they say, ‘There is no such thing as ghosts’.


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Class 10th NCERT Solutions: Ch 5 Patol Babu, Film Star English

December 1, 2014, 6:51 pm

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Chapter 5 Patol babu, Film Star Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By Satyajit Ray

Page No: 67

3. Answer the following questions briefly

(a) What was the news that Nishikanto Ghosh gave Patol Babu?

Answer

Nishikanto Babu told Patol Babu that his brother-in law, who was in the film business, was looking for an actor for a film they were shooting. The character he described reminded Nishikanto Babu of Patol Babu so he gave him his address and asked him to get in touch with him.

(b) How did Patol Babu react? Why?

Answer

Patol Babu was taken aback by the acting offer. He was surprised as it seemed unbelievable to him that a 52-year old nobody like him was getting a chance to act in a film.

(c) Why had Patol Babu lost his first job in Calcutta?

Answer

The Second World War had resulted in Patol Babu being retrenched from his nine-year-old clerical job at Hudson and Kimberley.

(d) How does Patol Babu reconcile to the dialogue given to him?

Answer

Initially Patol Babu was very dejected to know that he was required to speak just one word ‘Oh!’, but later he accepted it because the director told him that he was the only one who had the speaking part that day. Even the lead actor had no dialogues to speak that day.

(e) Who was Mr. Pakrashi? How do his words help Patol Babu in enacting his role?

Answer

Mr. Pakrashi was Patol Babu's mentor. He was a wonderful actor, without a tract of vanity in him. He said, "Remember one thing, Patol; however small a part you're offered, never consider it beneath your dignity to accept it." These words influenced Patol Babu a lot and they helped him enact his role with confidence and determination. From these words, Patol Babu drew spirit, energy, inspiration and dignity to enact such a small role. He no more felt his role in the movie to be condescending.

(f) How do we know that Patol Babu was a meticulous man?

Answer

Patol Babu was indeed a meticulous man. When he got his dialogue, monosyllabic exclamation 'Oh!', he tried his best to give his best. First he tried to understand different inflections of 'Oh!' when spoken in different tones carryingdifferent meanings. He was a true actor. He enunciated the syllable in various ways. Alon with, he worked out how he would react physically when the collision take place, how his features would be twisted in pain, how he would express pain and surprise. he perfomed in various ways infron of a large glass window. When his turn came, he even suggested for a rehersal. He calculated his steps and timed it excellently well. All these things shows his hard-work and pain taking attitude.

(g) Why did Mr. Mullick turn down Patol Babu's request for a rehearsal?

Answer

Mr Mullick was a very busy and preoccupied director. He had no patience to grant rehearsal for an insignificant role. Moreover, the scene had to be shot in sunlight and as the clouds were seen approaching, he had to take the shot quickly. So he declined Patol Babu’s request for a rehearsal.

(h) What were the special touches that Patol Babu gave to his role to make it more authentic?

Answer

Patol Babu was given the role of an absent-minded pedastrian who collided with the hero Chanchal Kumar on his way from his car to office. First of all, he himselfrehearsed his own bit. He worked out his teps, his reactions and his face expressions. When the shot was ready, he suggested to Barren Mullick if he had a newspaper open in his hand then it would be more natural and realistic. then, he calculated his speed and distance of the spot where the collosion was to take place and expressed his feelings of anguish, surprise and irritation in proper ratio poportion. In this way, he timed it very well.

4. Discuss the following questions in detail and write the answers in your notebooks:


(a) 'I hope the part calls for some dialogue?' Who says this? Why does he /she ask this question?

Answer

Patol babu saus this. he asked Nresh Dutt, the producer of the film to know about this role and the dialogue so as to be very clear in mind what he has to fo excatly because Naresh Futt has not told him anything about it as yet.

(b) 'Were these people pulling his legs? Was the whole thing a gigantic hoax?
A meek, harmless man like him, and they had to drag him into the middle of the city to make a laughing stock out of him. How could anyone be so cruel?' Why does Patol Babu have these thoughts?

Answer

Patol babu has all these thoughts as soon as he gets the dialogue from Jyoti. It is a single exclamatory word 'Oh!'. He feels upset and displeased at this dialogue. He has spoiled his day. He has come to all the way into the middle of the city for such a small dialogues.

(c) Patol Babu is an amateur actor for whom walk-on part in a movie turns into an ultimate challenge. Discuss.

Answer

Patol Babu is initially very disappointed because of the small role he had been given. Then he is reminded of his mentor’s words that “however small a part, never consider it beneath your dignity to accept it”. Motivated by these words, Patol Babu decides to rehearse his part before the final shoot. He chooses a reclusive spot to practice. As he practices, he realises that a monosyllabic exclamation could be said in different ways and carried different meanings. He also rehearsed how he would react physically when the collision took place - he would twist his face in pain, fling his arms, and crouch to show pain and surprise. He really worked hard at his part and performed it to perfection.

(d) Do you agree with the statement that Patol Babu is a practical man who comes to terms with whatever life has to offer? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

Yes, I do agree with this statement. Patol Babu has to struggle hard to earn his livelihood. But he does not lose heart. He tries many jobs, every means of earning a livelihood. He is an iron-willed man, undeterred by hardships of life.

A s soona s he gets an offer to play a walk on part in a movie, he accepted it. He performs it to his own utmost satisfaction. he puts all the labour and imagination into one shot. It is true that he needs money but he does not run after it. He performs his act with perfection, dedication and experience intense satisfaction of true actor.

(e) Why does Patol Babu walk away before he can be paid for his role? What does this reveal about his character?

Answer

Patol Babu executed his part to perfection. However, he wondered whether the immense effort he had put in to enact a small role would be appreciated by everybody or not. The film unit usually got hold of some people, made them do their parts and paid them a small amount. They were not bothered about the quality of performance.
Although Patol Babu performed a small role, he felt that taking money for it would be trivialising his performance. He was a true actor for whom creative satisfaction was foremost and not money.

(f) Do you think making a movie is an easy job? Discuss with reference to the story

Answer

The story, Patol Babu, Film Star, describes a film shoot. Filmmaking is a long and tedious process. Every scene has to be rehearsed many times before it is finally shot. Plenty of heavy equipments and expensive cameras are used. Film actors have to shoot in extreme weather conditions, sometimes in front of large crowds. The noise and extreme weather can, at times, distract an actor. The production unit has to see minor details, arrange for actors for small roles, and arrange for props. In short making a film is a combined effort of many people.

Page No: 68

5. Here are some lines from the lesson. What do they tell us about Patol Babu's character?

passionate actor	diligent	unassuming	talented
genial	mercenary	short-tempered	introvert
meticulous	modest	humble	arrogant

(b) Indeed, there was a time when people bought tickets especially to see him_____________
(c) 'I was with Hudson and Kimberley for nine years and wasn't late for a single day.' _____________

(d) It didn't matter if the part was small, but, if he had to make the most of it, he had to learn his lines beforehand. How small he would feel if he muffed in the presence of so many people_____________

(e) Patol Babu cleared his throat and started enunciating the syllable in various ways.
Along with that he worked out how he would react physically when the collision took place--how his features would be twisted in pain, how he would fling out his arms, how his body would crouch to express pain and surprise--all these he performed in various ways in front of a large glass window_____________

(f) It is true that he needed money very badly, but what was twenty rupees when measured against the intense satisfaction of a small job done with perfection and dedication? _____________

Answer

(b) talented
(c) punctual
(d) meticulous
(e) passionate actor
(f) humble

6. 

(a)	Then he had a job in a Bengali firm which he gave up in disgust when his boss began to treat him in too high-handed a fashion	stimulate the imagination
(b)	A faint memory was stirred up in Patol Babu's mind.	to surrender or relinquish
(c)	At first he opened a variety store which he had to wind up after five years.	staged
(d)	In Jatras, in amateur theatricals, to gain control over one's actions in playsput up by the club in his neighbourhood, Patol Babu was always in demand	to gain control over one's actions
(e)	Patol Babu was about to step forward when he was pulled up short by a voice shouting 'Silence!'	shut down
(f)	Patol Babu pulled himself together	Stopped

Answer 

(a)	Then he had a job in a Bengali firm which he gave up in disgust when his boss began to treat him in too high-handed a fashion	to surrender or relinquish
(b)	A faint memory was stirred up in Patol Babu's mind.	stimulate the imagination
(c)	At first he opened a variety store which he had to wind up after five years.	shut down
(d)	In Jatras, in amateur theatricals, to gain control over one's actions in playsput up by the club in his neighbourhood, Patol Babu was always in demand	staged
(e)	Patol Babu was about to step forward when he was pulled up short by a voice shouting 'Silence!'	stopped
(f)	Patol Babu pulled himself together	to gain control over one’s action

Page No: 69

7. After Patol Babu returns home he recounts his experience in front of the camera to his wife. In pairs write out the exchange in the form of a dialogue and enact it before the class. You may start like this….
Patol Babu's wife: So what happened at the shooting today? Did you get to do your role?
Patol Babu: Oh, Yes, I had the time of my life____________

Answer

Patol Babu’s wife: So what happened at shooting today? Did you get to do your role?

Patol Babu: Oh, yes, I had the time of my life. Did you know that filmmaking is very different from stage production?

Patol Babu’s wife: Oh really? Who was the director of the film?

Patol Babu: Baren Mullick. He has three smash hits in a row!

Patol Babu’s wife: Tell me about your part?

Patol Babu: Well….well… it was a very short role… but everybody loved my performance. Do you know there are cameras focused at every angle? You get a chance to rehearse your part. It is very different from stage.

Patol Babu’s wife: So how many lines did you get to speak?

Patol Babu: Well… I forgot to tell you my role was with the hero of the film—Chanchal Kumar.

Patol Babu’s wife: But you are not telling me anything about your role.

Patol Babu: I will…I will…but first give me something to eat. I am really hungry. I will take you to show this film when it is released. I promise. Come let’s eat something.

Writing Task 

9. Patol Babu writes a letter to Nishikanto Ghosh to thank him for being instrumental in his getting a role in a film. He also shares his experience at the film shoot including the excitement and deep satisfaction that he derived from the same. Write the letter in about 200 words.
Answer

Dear Nishikanto Babu,

How are you? Hope you are doing fine. It was indeed a pleasure meeting you the other day. I wanted to thank you for recommending me for that role.

At first, I was surprised that an acting offer would come my way after so many years. However, as you know how passionate I am about acting that I just couldn’t refuse. When I reached the shooting site, I realised how different acting in a film was than acting on stage. I saw so many new things—cameras, lights, make up artists, production people, etc. It was a completely new experience for me. I must confess something—I was initially disappointed with my role and dialogue. It was a very small part with almost no dialogue. however, my mentor’s advice motivated me and I rehearsed and performed my part to perfection. In fact I can say that it was my finest performance till date.

I am very grateful to you as it was because of you that I had this fantastic experience at the first place.

I must also add that your brother-in-law is a thorough gentleman. He took good care of me. Thanks again.

Yours truly,
Patol Babu

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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 6 Virtually True English

December 1, 2014, 6:51 pm

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Chapter 6 Virtually True Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By Paul Stewart

Page No: 78

Excercise

1. According to the newspaper, what had happened to Sebastian Shultz?

Answer

Sebastian Shultz was badly injured in a car accident. His condition was described by doctors as critical but stable. In spite of doctors’ efforts Sebastian could not regain consciousness. He went into coma.

2. 'Dad's nutty about computers.' What evidence is there to support this statement?

Answer

The narrator’s father was most crazy for computer for he bought a lot of such things at the Computer Fair. He bought a Pentium Processor, a Ram, 1.2 GB hard disk and 16 speed CD ROMs, with speakers, printer, modem and a scanner.

3. In what way did the second game seem very real?

Answer

The second was DRAGON QUEST. The narrator felt that he was really walking in the Dragon’s castle where they were being pursued by the dragon, the narrator felt it was like a real chase and even felt the dragon’s hot breath on his face.

4. The last game has tanks, jeeps, helicopters, guns and headings would you put this and the other games under?

Answer

Warzone can be categorised under simulation games. Wildwest is a strategy game. Dragonquest is a fantasy role-playing game and Jailbreak is an action game.

5. What was Michael's theory about how Sebastian had entered the games?

Answer

According to Michael, Sebastian was probably playing those games when he banged his head in the accident. The computer had saved his memory into its own. Michael bought a lot of games at the fair. Some of them were the stolen ones of Sebastian. When Michael was playing those games, the computer was trying to retrieve Sebastian’s memory.

B. Reference To Context

Read these lines from the story, then answer the questions.

1. 'That was my idea' said Sebastian excitedly.' If only it would go a big faster’.

1.Where was Sebastian when he spoke these words?

Answer

Sebastian had just broken a jail with help of Michael and was on the rooftop.

2. What was his idea, and what was he referring to?

Answer

Sebastian was referring to be rescued by a helicopter from the jail, before the guards catch up on him.

3. Was the idea a good one, and did it eventually succeed? How?

Answer

Yes, of course, it was a good idea to catch a helicopter. However, the helicopter was slow in landing. The jail guards and dogs caught up with Sebastian. The dogs hurled at Sebastian. To escape the dogs, Sebastian stepped backwards and slipped and fell on the concrete below. Eventually, Sebastian was able to board the helicopter and was rescued. Thus, Michael succeeded in saving and bringing Sebastian back to life.

3.  Answer the following questions briefly.

(a) Why did the news of the 'miracle recovery' shock Michael?

Answer

The news article mentioned that a fourteen-year-old boy called Sebastian Shultz, who had gone into a coma following the accident, had miraculously recovered. Michael was shocked to read this. When he saw the picture of Sebastian, he realised that he was the same person whom he had met in the virtual world and was trying to rescue him. Michael couldn’t understand that how he could meet Sebastian if he was in coma.

(b) Michael's meeting with Sebastian Shultz had been a chance meeting. Where had it taken place and how?

Answer

Michael’s chance meeting with Sebastian had taken place in the virtual world. He had met Sebastian for the first time in a game called Wildwest. He was playing the Sheriff. There was an altercation with Black-eyed Jed and he was going to meet him out of the saloon. Before he could go, he saw another Sheriff, very different from the other computer images. Later he discovered it had been Sebastian Shultz.

(c) What kind of computers fascinated Michael and his dad? Why?

Answer

Michael and his dad had recently bought a Pentium 150 MHz processor, with 256 of RAM, a 1.2 GB hard disk drive and 16 speed CD ROM, complete with speakers, printer, modem and scanner. This computer could do anything: paint, play music, create displays and even make rubbish homework look fantastic.

(d) Describe the first place where Michael was virtually transported.

Answer

The first place Michael was transported was the time period between the American Civil war and end of the 19th century. (mid 1830’s-1920). Geographically, it was west America. Michael was playing a game called Wildwest where he was a Sheriff caught in a gun fight in a saloon.

(e) What help did Sebastian Shultz ask Michael for? How did he convey this message?

Answer

Sebastian Shultz was in the virtual world when his accident took place. As a result he got stuck there. He encountered Michael in this virtual world. He wanted Michael to rescue him. He sent a message to Michael which appeared on his printer.

(f) Why did Michael fail in rescuing Sebastian Shultz the first time?

Answer

Michael had followed Sebastian through the chase and they ended up in the saloon. Then Sebastian dived out and both were sitting on the horseback, chased by men on horseback. Sebastian told Michael to keep his head down but he himself was shot by a bullet and slumped back near him. Before Michael could do anything the game got over.

(g) The second attempt to rescue Sebastian Shultz too was disastrous. Give reasons.

Answer

Sebastian chopped the princess’s long plaits and tied them together to form a rope and managed to flee from the tower. He and Michael headed towards the dungeons. However, the dragon followed them. As they were going down the steps, the dragon appeared and caught Sebastian. Michael tried to kill the dragon but he had already taken Sebastian. Thus, the second attempt to save Sebastian failed as well.

(h) Narrate the accident that injured Sebastian Shultz.

Answer

It happened in WARZONE, where both Sebastian and Michael were trying to escape a city which was exploding with machine-guns and bombs. They jumped into a jeep and Michael managed to get into a helicopter but Sebastian couldn’t get out of the jeep. The jeep had clashed with a tank and Sebastian landed on the ground injured.

(i) How had Sebastian Shultz entered the games?

Answer

At the time of the accident, Sebastian was using his laptop to play one of the psycho-drive games. He was plugged on to the computer when his head banged in the accident. The computer had saved his memory in its own. Thus, Sebastian had entered the games but could not come out of it.

(j) How was Sebastian Shultz's memory stored on Michael's disk? Did Michael discover that?

Answer

When Sebastian had met with an accident, the computer had saved his memory as its own. Michael discovered later that the games disk had got stolen in the hospital and he had ended up buying those computer games.

Page No: 79

4. Sebastian Shultz had a close brush with death. After he recovers, he returns to school and narrates his experience to his classmates. As Sebastian Shultz, narrate your experience.

Answer

Hi friends, great to see you all. I had almost lost hope to meet you all again ever. Six weeks ago, I was on my way out of town with some friends for a weekend. I had my laptop with me. It was a four-hour journey to our destination. So, to engage myself, I logged on to one of my psycho-drive games. After an hour of driving on the highway, the car suddenly screeched to a halt. Since we were driving at a great speed, the driver lost control of the car and car somersaulted before falling into a ditch. As the car fell into the ditch, my head hit against the roof of the car and everything blacked out. I don’t remember what happened to me after that. I was told that I had slipped into coma and only a miracle had brought me back. Another miraculous
thing happened to me. At the time of the accident, I was in the midst of a game. Although, I entered it I couldn’t come out of it. Somebody stole my lot of games while I was in the hospital. Some of those were bought by a person called Michael, who rescued me and got me out. So, indirectly he is my saviour. I am planning to meet him soon. It is great to be back friends! I have had a harrowing time, VIRTUALLY!!

5. Continue the story.
Will Michael and Sebastian Shultz meet in real life? Will they be friends? Will they try to re-enter the virtual world together? You may use the following hints:
How the accident occurred
Transfer of memory
Meeting with Michael
Appeals for help
Rescue and recovery

Answer

What I know is this - Everything that I've described is true virtually.
Now I was planning to see Sebastian.
One day, i really happened. he was in a computer shop buying latest games. At Once, I recognized him. Yes- Same face I saw in the message, in the game.
'Excuse me! Are you Sebastian?' I said in excited way.
'Yes, How do you know my name?' the same voice I had heard in the games.
"You don;t know me but I know you well. Rememebr, the last game you had been playing just before the accident. And you went in coma six weeks ago." I tried to explain.
"Yes, bu has the game everything to do with you? I don't understand." he was surprised and a bit confused.
"You mean you don't remember anything." I gasped.
"Let's sit in a coffee shop. i am curious to know about my games which were stolen by someone when I was in the hospital." he said and hold me by the hand.
Next moment we were in the Cafeteria and tlking. i related everything ever message he had sent to me. Listening carfully, he gaped in awe and fear.
Apparently, he believed my words. he seemed grateful to me for saving his life.
"Can you show me the games?I bet it is a miracle. What do you say, buddy?" he chirped.
I looked at him curiously and asked, Are you interested in those games still?  They are dangerous."
"Come on. By the way would you please tell me your name?" he asked expectantly.
"O Yes, I am Michael, you partner in the game." I said happily.
"Well, I want to ask you something if you don't mind." he hesitated.
"Don't hesitate Seb. We're friends now."
"Michael, I want to re-enter the virtual world with you. It's really exciting to relieve the adventuorous moments again. It will be rocking." said Sebastian. i could not refuse.
He hold my hand and took me to his car. the dirver was waiting. "We're going Michael home." He told the driver.
The driver started the engine.

Page No: 80

6. Put the following sentences in a sequential order to complete the story.

(a) Sebastian Shultz was badly injured in a motorway accident and went into a coma.
(b) Sebastian's memory was saved in the computer when he banged his head on it during the accident.
(c) When Michael played the game, he entered Sebastian's memory.
(d) Michael bought the latest psycho-drive games from the computer fair.
(e) Sebastian Shultz was the second sheriff in the 'Dragonquest'
(f) Michael pulled Sebastian into the helicopter and the screen flashed a score of 40,000,000.
(g) Sebastian requested Michael to try 'Jailbreak'.
(h) Sebastian failed to save the boy who fell through the air.
(i) Sebastian thought the helicopter was the right idea and they should go into the 'Warzone'.
(j) The games were stolen from Shultz's house.
(k) Sebastian thanks Michael for saving his life and asks him to keep the games.

Answer

(a) Sebastian Shultz was badly injured in a motorway accident and went into a coma.
(b) Sebastian's memory was saved in the computer when he banged his head on it during the accident.
(j) The games were stolen from Shultz's house.
(d) Michael bought the latest psycho-drive games from the computer fair.
(c) When Michael played the game, he entered Sebastian's memory.
(e) Sebastian was the second sheriff in ‘Dragonquest’.
(g) Sebastian requested Michael to try 'Jailbreak'.
(h) Sebastian failed to save the boy who fell through the air.
(i) Sebastian thought the helicopter was the right idea and they should go into the 'Warzone'.
(f) Michael pulled Sebastian into the helicopter and the screen flashed a score of 40,000,000.
(k) Sebastian thanks Michael for saving his life and asks him to keep the games.

Writing Task

8. Here are some opinions about computer games in general.
1. Encourage sedentary lifestyle
2. Too much time is wasted
3. Negative impact on health
4. Psychological imbalance
5. The games are addictive.
6. Reduce social skills
7. Promote violence and aggression
8. Detach one from reality
Do you think these opinions are biased? Write an article entitled 'Virtual games are a reality.'

Answer

Virtual world or cyberspace is an environment using computer technology to create a simulated, three-dimensional world that a user can manipulate and explore while feeling as if he were in that world. In a virtual reality environment, the user experiences the feeling of being inside and a part of that world. He is also able to interact with his environment in meaningful ways. Virtually real environment has benefited the health care industry. The doctors use virtual reality products to treat phobias, addictions and other mental health needs.

However, some psychologists are concerned that virtual reality games could psychologically affect a player. They suggest that these games place a player in violent situations, particularly as the perpetuator of violence and could result in the user becoming desensitised. Some psychologists also believe that these games can lead to cyber addiction. There have been several news stories of gamers neglecting their real lives for their online, in-game presence.

Another rising concern is about criminal acts. In a virtual game, defining a criminal act has been problematic. At what point can authorities charge a person with a real crime for actions within a virtual game? Studies indicate that people can have real physical and emotional reactions to stimuli within a virtual game. Thus, it’s quite possible that a victim of a virtual attack could feel real emotional trauma. Can the attacker be punished for causing real-life distress? We don’t have answers to these questions yet.


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Class 10th NCERT Solution: Ch 7 The Frog and the Nightingale (Poem) English

December 1, 2014, 6:50 pm

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Chapter 7 The Frog and the Nightingale (Poem) Literature Reader English NCERT Solution

By Vikram Seth

Page No: 85

1. Listed below are a few character traits of people. Some are positive qualities, while others are not. Tick mark the ones you feel are desirable qualities in a person.

Characteristic	Tick Mark	Characteristic	Tick Mark	Characteristic	Tick Mark
Insensitive		High- headed		Manipulative
Humorous		Egoistic		Patronizing
Naïve		Humble		Submissive
Opportunistic		Foolish		Arrogant
Creative		Original		Conniving
Disapproving		Helpful		Innocent
Commanding		Calculative		Condescending
Benevolent		Crafty		Scheming
Simple		Wise		Rude
Overbearing		Generous		Boastful
Sly		Gentle		Proud
Territorial		Aggressive		Servile

Answer

The following are the qualities desirable in a person:

Humorous,
Creative,
Benevolent,
Simple,
Humble,
Helpful,
Gentle,
Generous,
Wise,
Innocent,
Condescending.

2. Have you come across people who are not what they seem to be - like someone who is extremely friendly and helpful yet you are not very comfortable with him /her as you feel it is a put-on? Have a class discussion about such people and why you feel as you do.

Answer

Yes, I have come across such persons. They pretend for having a virtuous character, moral or religious beliefs etc., that they don't really possess. At first, They are or can be successful in impressing others. However, when the real picture is revealed, they are subjected to embarrassment and humiliation. They also lose their popularity and the previously formed impression gets marred.

Page No: 86

3. Before you read the poem complete the word - web with the words that we associate with a Frog and a Nightingale.
Frog: Croak, Ugly, etc.

Answer

Page No: Page No: 91

5. The following is a summary of the poem but it is jumbled up. Write out the events in their correct order to form a continuous paragraph.

(a) As a result, her voice lost its beauty, and the other creatures stopped coming to hear her sing.
(b) Soon the nightingale became famous, and creatures from miles around came to hear her sing.
(c) All the creatures in the bog cheered and clapped at her beautiful song.
(d) He offered to train the nightingale, so that she could sing even more beautifully.
(e) So the frog could sing unrivalled in the bog once more.
(f) The next night the frog introduced himself.
(g) The frog charged an admission fee, and earned a lot of money from these concerts.
(h) A frog croaked all night in a bog, in an unpleasant voice.
(i) But the frog made the nightingale rehearse continuously in the rain.
(j) One night a nightingale began to sing in a melodious voice.
(k) Finally the nightingale burst a vein and died.

Answer

(h) A frog croaked all night in a bog, in an unpleasant voice.
(j) One night a nightingale began to sing in a melodious voice.
(c) All the creatures in the bog cheered and clapped at her beautiful song.
(f) The next night the frog introduced himself.
(d) He offered to train the nightingale, so that she could sing even more beautifully.
(b) Soon the nightingale became famous, and creatures from miles around came to hear her sing.
(g) The frog charged an admission fee, and earned a lot of money from these concerts.
(i) But the frog made the nightingale rehearse continuously in the rain.
(a) As a result, her voice lost its beauty, and the other creatures stopped coming to hear her sing.
(k) Finally the nightingale burst a vein and died.
(e) So the frog could sing unrivalled in the bog once more.
6. Now that you have read the poem, add more personality traits to the word-web of the frog and the nightingale as depicted in the poem. Then complete the table given below. (Some of the words in the box below may help you. You may also use the words given in Q. 1.)

Character	Extract	Personality
Nightingale	Sorry - was that you who spoke?	Polite, Timorous
Frog	Yes,… you see, I'm the frog who owns this tree In this bog I've long been known For my splendid baritone.
Nightingale	Did you…did you like my song?
Frog	Not too bad - but far too long The technique was fine, of course, But it lacked a certain force.
Frog	Without proper training such as I And a few others can supply You'll remain a mere beginner, But with me you'll be a winner.
Nightingale	But I can't sing in this weather.
Nightingale	…This is a fairy tale - And you're Mozart in disguise Come to earth before my eyes.
Frog	Come, my dear - we'll sing together.
Frog	We must aim for better billing You still owe me sixty shillings.
Frog	Brainless bird - you're on the stage Use your wits and follow fashion. Puff your lungs out with your passion.
Frog	…I tried to teach her, But she was a stupid creature.

Dismissive	Nervous	Timid	Presumptuous
Superior	Fawning	Shy	Polite
Meek	Possessive	Dominating	Mercenery

Answer

Character	Extract	Personality
Nightingale	Sorry - was that you who spoke?	Polite, Timorous
Frog	Yes,… you see, I'm the frog who owns this tree In this bog I've long been known For my splendid baritone.	Territorial, proud, arrogant, haughty, boastful
Nightingale	Did you…did you like my song?	Susceptible, modest
Frog	Not too bad - but far too long The technique was fine, of course, But it lacked a certain force.	Dismissive, patronising
Frog	Without proper training such as I And a few others can supply You'll remain a mere beginner, But with me you'll be a winner.	Superior, haughty, boastful
Nightingale	But I can't sing in this weather.	Timid, condescending, meek, nervous, polite
Nightingale	…This is a fairy tale - And you're Mozart in disguise Come to earth before my eyes.	Eager to please, flattering
Frog	Come, my dear - we'll sing together.	Polite, hypocrite
Frog	We must aim for better billing You still owe me sixty shillings.	Possessive, witty, selfish
Frog	Brainless bird - you're on the stage Use your wits and follow fashion. Puff your lungs out with your passion.	Arrogant, overbearing, authoritative
Frog	…I tried to teach her, But she was a stupid creature.	Deceitful, arrogant, clever

Page No: 93

8. On the basis of your understanding of the poem, complete the sentences given below by choosing the appropriate option.

1. The frog's aim was to
(a) make the nightingale a sensation
(b) make the nightingale as good a singer as him
(c) maintain his supremacy in the bog
(d) make a lot of money

Answer

(c) maintain his supremacy in the bog
2. The animals reacted to the nightingale's song with
(a) hatred
(b) admiration
(c) indifference
(d) suggestions for improvement

Answer

(b) admiration
3. The nightingale accepted the frog's tutelage as she
(a) was not confident of herself
(b) wanted to become as good a singer as the frog
(c) wanted to become a professional singer
(d) was not a resident of Bingle Bog

Answer

(c) wanted to become a professional singer
Page No: 94

9. Read the stanza given below and complete the sentences by choosing the appropriate option.

Day by day the nightingale
Grew more sorrowful and pale.
Night on night her tired song
Zipped and trilled and bounced along,
Till the birds and beasts grew tired
At a voice so uninspired
And the ticket office gross
Crashed, and she grew more morose -
For her ears were now addicted
To applause quite unrestricted,
And to sing into the night
All alone gave no delight.

(i) The nightingale was sorrowful and pale because
1. she had been practicing in the rain
2. she had been performing all night
3. she was losing confidence in herself
4. she was falling ill

Answer

2. she had been performing all night

(ii) The audience was tired of her song because
1. they had heard it many times
2. it had become mechanical
3. she looked tired
4. she had added trill to her song

Answer

2. it had become mechanical

(iii) She no longer enjoyed singing alone as
1. she wanted to sing only for titled crowd
2. she was now used to the appreciation she got
3. the frog was no longer with her
4. she had become proud of herself

Answer

2. she was now used to the appreciation she got
10. Answer the following questions briefly.

(a) How did the creatures of Bingle bog react to the nightingale's singing?

Answer

The creatures of Bingle Bog favoured the nightingale’s songs to a great extent. In fact, they gathered in crowds to hear the nightingale sing. Animals and birds, from far and wide, came to hear her sing her melodious songs.
(b) Which are the different ways in which the frog asserts his importance?

Answer

The frog asserts his importance by being authoritative, territorial and imposing. He pretended to be a great singer and he also said that he was the reporter of Bog ‘Trumpet’. He boasted that he was a music critic and a musician like Mozart and was ready to train her.

(c) Why is the frog's joy both sweet and bitter?

Answer

The joy of the frog was sweet as the nightingale could gather so many people to attend her concert. The more the audience, the more would be the earning, which the nightingale was bound to pay to the frog as tuition fees. Moreover, he was happy that he succeeds in torturing the bird and pushing her towards death. However, it was bitter as he knew deep within his heart that the nightingale's talent surpassed his own and thus, nobody as great as the present audience had ever come to hear him from far and wide. It was pure jealousy.

(d) Why was the frog angry?

Answer

The frog was angry because the nightingale had ceased to sing melodiously. Her song was so dull that no one liked it. This had suddenly crashed the income of frog making him angry.

(e) How did the frog become the unrivalled king of the bog again?

Answer

The frog became the unrivalled king of Bingle Bog, after the death of the nightingale. Now no bird or animal would compete with the frog in singing. Secondly, all of them over there were greatly scared of him.

Page No: 95 

11. Discuss the following questions and write the answers in your note-books.

(a) Bring out the irony in the frog's statement - 'Your song must be your own'.

Answer

Irony is a literary device which means the expression of one's mening by saying something which is the direct opposite of one's thoughts. Earlier the frog tells the nightingale that she should not boast about on her original songs but later on he finds fault in the nightingale by saying: "Your song must be your own." So there is an instance of irony in this statement.

(b) Do you think the end is justified?

Answer

The end faced by the innocent nightingale is pitiful yet justified. It portrays the truth where evil people have an upper-hand over the innocent ones. Thus, it is natural that the ‘innocence’ of the nightingale is killed by the ‘cruel and crafty designs’ of evil symbolised by the frog.

(c) Do you think the nightingale is 'brainless'? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

No, I don't think the nightingale is brainless. Being simple, innocent, shy or dismissive doest not mean foolish. It is only being noble. She wanted to be a successful and accoladed singer. So, she accepted the frog's advice of giving her vocal training. Her only fault was that she lacked confidence.

(d) Inspite of having a melodious voice and being a crowd puller, the nightingale turns out to be a loser and dies. How far is she responsible for her own downfall?

Answer

The nightingale is, herself, responsible for her own downfall. She doesn’t use her capability to judge and evaluate sweet-tongued people. That why she is killed by the evil designs of the frog who ploys her to her death.

(e) Do you agree with the Frog's inference of the Nightingale's character? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer

Yes, I agree with the frog’s notion of the Nightingale’s character. Being flattered and submissive and timid, she invited her own death upon herself. She should have been able to see through the frog’s plots and reverted accordingly. However, her innocence didn’t allow her to evaluate the frog’s tricks.

14. Write an obituary for the nightingale. You may begin like this: May the kind soul……… (or you may make use of your own beginning)

Answer

May the kind and innocent soul of the Nightingale rest in peace! The nightingale was very innocent, timid, simple and compassionate. She was the symbol of human values. She was very virtuous. Her absence among us can be felt all the time. She bore evil towards none but had to pay the price of being innocent, submissive, simple-hearted and credulous. The death of the Nightingale teaches us that one must look out and be vigilant against sweet-tongued people, who turn friendly instantly. We must all learn something from the sacrifice of the Nightingale. We must shun the people having the qualities of the frog.

13. The nightingale has scaled the heights of success. But now the audience is dwindling, the frog is unhappy and reprimands her all the time. She is mentally and physically exhausted and fears failure. As the nightingale, write a diary entry highlighting her fears and analyzing the reasons for her failure.

1st December
Monday
I still remember the time when the bog creatures were pleasently surprised to hear my soothing, sweet and divine voice. Everyone admired my song. My song was such a hit that the creatures requested me to sing again and again. But the gala days vanished away soon.
Now they are no longer interested in my song. Constant singing has damaged my vocal chords. I cannot sing melodiously as my voice has got hoarse and shanky. I am surprised and doleful at the indifferent attitude of the bog creatures. Even my master trainer, frog is annoyed with me and scolds me all the time. he keeps on reminding me that my song lacks a certain force and my singing is full of errors. Am I not a good singer? Will I ever be able to sing well? Perhaps not. because my song as lost its spontaniety and originality. the audience who used to applaud my song are now loosing interest and withdrawing. The frog constantly reprimands me because the total collection of money from the sale of tickets to my concert has fallen sharply. How will I pay the sixty shilling- the remaining fee for the training? I am mentally and physically exhausted. I shudder at the mere thought of being a failure where once I earned kudos for my singing.
Oh God! Please Help me
Nightingale


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