Overcoat Short textual questions and answers

1. What was the colour of the overcoat of the young man?
The young man was wearing a brown overcoat. It looked nice and new. It was well-cut and made of fine material. It had hidden the real personality of the young man. It made him a new man. He looked dandy and rich.

2. How did he look like?
The young man was wearing a brown overcoat. It looked nice and new. It had hidden the real personality of the young man. It made him a new man. He looked dandy and impressive.Though he was poor, yet he looked like a rich man. His hair was sleek and shining and he wore side burns. He had a very beautiful thin moustache.

3. Why did the people come out on the Mall?
The people came out on the Mall to enjoy the pleasant weather. It was a cold that induced people to seek comfort in pleasure. The people seemed excited at the pleasant weather. They did not care for intense cold and started relishing it. They wanted to get some moments of joy out of their daily boring routine.

4. Who were the people wearing such dress and had come on the Mall?
At that time, all sorts of people came out from their homes and began to join the gaiety of the streets. They began to visit different shops, hotels, restaurants and snack bars to amuse themselves. They ate and danced with joy. Up and down the main road there was an unending stream of cars, buses, tongas and bicycles while the pavement was full of pedestrians.

5. Why was the cat shivering?
It was winter season. It was intense cold outside. The cat was shivering with cold. She began to rub herself with the legs of the young man who stroked her gently. The poor creature wanted to keep herself warm.

6. Why did the driver of the truck speed away after the accident?
The driver of the truck heard a shriek. He slowed down his truck for a moment. But, he realized that something serious had happened. He took advantage of the darkness and sped away into the night. He wanted to escape arrest by the police for murder.

7. Who took the young man to the hospital?
The young man met a serious accident. He was lying in a pool of blood. He was badly hurt. His life was in danger. Some passers-by showed great spirit of humanism and sympathy. They stopped a car and he was loaded into it and taken to a nearby hospital.

8. What kind of music was played in one of the restaurants?
An orchestra was playing in one of the restaurants. It was very charming and melodious. Many people were intently listening to it. Though the music was in foreign language, yet the people were much impressed with it.

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The Angel and the Author Short textual questions and answers

1. At what point of journey in his dream did the author hear the throbbing sound of wings?
The author dreamt that he was going up and up. The world grew smaller and smaller. The last thing he saw of London was the long line of electric lamps near the Embankment. Later nothing remained but a faint light. It was at this point of his journey that he heard behind him the slow, throbbing sound of wings.

2. What time of the year it was?
It was Christmas time. Everybody tries to become good and generous. On this holy occasion, the people take care of the poor and the needy. They turn to piety and purification of their souls.

3. What does the author like about Christmas?
The author likes Christmas because it makes everybody good and generous. Everybody tries to help the poor and the needy. These lovely sentiments are repeated at Christmas every year. The rich take care of the poor. These good deeds purify their souls.

4. Write down the good deeds the author has admitted are great joy at Christmas.
The good deeds that are a great joy for the author at Christmas include sweet child giving Bovril with her own dear little hands to the shivering street arab, the good old red-faced squire shovelling out plum pudding to the crowd of grateful villagers.

5. Why noble deeds are always a great joy for the author?
The noble deeds are always a great joy for the author because they create feelings of peace and happiness in him. His soul becomes satisfied by helping the poor and the needy. His sins are removed by the noble deeds and create feelings of generosity and sympathy in him.

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God be Praised Short textual questions and answers

1. What was alias Abul’s full name?
Abul’s full name was Maulvi Abul Barkat.

2. What was his turban known as and where did it originally come from?
He used to wear a turban on his head. It was known as Mashadi lungi, because it originally came from Mashad in Iran.

3. What did he always carry with him?
He always carried a walking stick, a sort of scepter with decorative bands of brass and gilt.

4. Describe Maulvi’s appearance.
Maulvi Abul had slightly bulging eyes. He had bright hair. He used fragrant oil for them. He wore silver rings with large turquoise on his fingers. He used to wear a turban on his head. He also carried a walking stick in his hand.

5. How much did the Maulvi collect on every Eid?
He collected from 150 to 200 rupees on every Eid. This amount was contributed by his followers.

6. How much was distributed among the needy and the poor?
Maulvi Abul used to distribute 40 to 50 rupees among the needy and the poor of the village. It showed his sense of humanism and generosity. He was a kind and sympathetic fellow.

7. What was the name of his eldest daughter?
The name of his eldest daughter was Mehrunnisa. She was the main cause of worries for her father because Maulvi Abul was worried about her marriage.

8. What was the name of the member of the District Board where the Maulvi lived?
The name of the member of the District Board was Chaudhry Fateh Dad. He was a pious man who helped Maulvi Abul through thick and thin.

9. What was the name of his wife?
The name of his wife was Zaibunnisa. She proved herself an ideal wife. She supported her husband in every difficulty.

10. Write the names of the other two daughters mentioned in the story.
The names of the other two daughters are: Zabda and Shamsun.

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The Gift of the Magi Short textual questions and answers.

1. How much did she save for Christmas?
She saved one dollar and eighty-seven cents in her careful buying of meat and other food. She was very economical. But, this amount of money was not enough to spend on Christmas. She was very poor and wanted to save as much money as possible to buy a suitable gift for Jim. It all showed her deep love and sincerity for Jim.

2. Why did she feel proud in the beauty of her hair?
Della had very beautiful hair. She was proud of their beauty. Even a queen did not possess such beautiful hair. She looked so charming with her long hair. But, now her hair was gone. She looked like a school boy. She lost her beauty and charm. Naturally she felt sad on losing her hair.

3. Why did she sell her hair?
Jim and Della loved each other. They could not celebrate Christmas without exchanging gifts. But, they were so poor that they could not buy suitable gifts for each other. Jim sold his precious gold watch to buy a gift for Della. She also sold her beautiful hair to buy a gift for him.

4. Why did Jim sell the gold watch?
Jim and Della loved each other. They could not celebrate Christmas without exchanging gifts. But, they were so poor that they could not buy suitable gifts for each other. Jim sold his precious gold watch to buy a gift for Della. She also sold her beautiful hair to buy a gift for him.

5. Why did they want to exchange the gifts?
They wanted to exchange the gifts out of love and respect for each other. They could not celebrate Christmas without exchanging the gifts. These gifts represented their depth of feelings for each other.

6. Why did she feel sad on losing her hair?
Della had very beautiful hair. She was proud of their beauty. She looked so charming with her long hair. But, now her hair was gone. She looked like a school boy. She lost her beauty and charm. Naturally she felt sad on losing her hair.

7. Why did Jim not welcome her when he stepped in?
Jim did not welcome her when he stepped in because he had purchased beautiful combs for her perfect hair. She had sold her hair to purchase a gift for him. Naturally he was shocked and surprised to see that her hair was gone.

8. What did he bring out of his coat?
Jim sold his precious watch to buy a gift for Della. He purchased beautiful combs for her. She liked these combs. He brought out an envelope from his coat. It contained beautiful combs for her perfect hair.

9. How beautiful was the gold watch chain?
The gold watch chain was very beautiful. It was simply made. Its value was in its rich and pure material. It had quietness and value. Della’s love and sincerity added to its value.

10. What was the wisdom in selling the most valuable things?
The selling of the most valuable things showed great spirit of love and sacrifice. It brought them more closer. By selling their most valuable things, they proved that they could do anything for each other. They sacrificed for each other and won hearts of each other.

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I have a Dream Short textual questions and answers.

1. What was the cause of Negroes’ discontentment?
The cause of the Negroes’ discontentment was very serious. Their condition was very bad. They were treated worse than animals. They did not enjoy basic human rights. They had no opportunities for progress and development. They were treated as slaves. The Whites considered themselves to be superior to them only on the basis of colour. There was no merit system for them. Their abilities and talent were underestimated.

2. What are the qualities of the veterans of creative suffering?
The veterans of creative suffering have the following qualities:

1. They continue to struggle with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.
2. They do not lose heart.
3. They bear hardships and difficulties of life patiently.
4. They remain confident and steadfast.
5. They do not rest until they reach their destination.

3. What is the dream of Martin Luther King Jr.?
The dream of Martin Luther King is equality and justice for all. He struggled very hard to realize his dream. He suffered hardships and difficulties. He did not lose heart. He remained steadfast and strong. At last, his efforts bore fruit and the Negroes got freedom and justice.

4. What should be the faith of the Negroes?
Martin Luther King inspired the Negroes and urged them to continue to struggle with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. They were being mistreated and victimized without any reason or justification. He told them that these difficulties would one day bear fruit and bring them freedom.

5. What was the necessity of pleading the case of the Negroes’ freedom?
It was necessary to plead the case of the Negroes because their condition was very bad. They were treated worse than animals. They did not enjoy basic human rights. They had no opportunities for progress and development. They were treated as slaves. The Whites considered themselves to be superior to them only on the basis of colour. There was no merit system for them. Their abilities and talent were underestimated.

6. What should be the criterion of judgement for a person?
The criterion of judgement for a person should be the basis of his character and not the colour of his skin. He should be judged through his abilities and talent. He should not be victimized for belonging to a specific caste or creed. This racial discrimination kills merit and justice. It must be avoided at all costs.

7. Do the Negroes enjoy liberty in all the parts of their country?
Before the struggle of Martin Luther King, the Negroes did not enjoy liberty in all parts of their country. They were mistreated and kept as slaves. They were not given their basic rights. Then, Martin Luther King mobilized them and prepared them for freedom struggle. The President, Abraham Lincoln, issued the Emancipation Proclamation which declared that all persons held as slaves shall be free. At last, the Negroes got rid of slavery and had liberty and equal rights in all parts of the country.

8. From which part of the country did the Negroes gather there?
The Negroes gathered there from the South which was dominated by them. Here, they were treated as slaves. The President, Abraham Lincoln, issued the Emancipation Proclamation which declared that all persons held as slaves shall be free. At last, the Negroes got rid of slavery and had equal rights.

9. Write down the song in your own words.
This song is a tribute to one’s country. It is full of the feelings of patriotism. It represents deep love and devotion to one’s country. It makes one proud of one’s nation and country. It inspires hope and confidence. It represents the feelings of unity and brotherhood.

10. What is the effect of the repetition of words.
The effect of the repetition of words is very deep. It creates feelings of unity and patriotism. It creates an urge to sacrifice everything for the sake of the country. It inspires confidence and hope. It makes us proud of our nation and nationality.

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A Mild Attack of Locusts Short textual questions and answers

1. What are locusts?
The locusts are insects which attack the crops in swarms and eat them up. They are very dangerous and harmful for the crops and plants. They are a natural calamity that makes the human beings helpless in saving the crops. They cause huge financial loss to the farmers.

2. Why did the farmers throw wet leaves on fire?
The attack of locusts was so heavy and devastating that the farmers were quite helpless. They threw wet leaves on to the fires to produce thick and bitter smoke to scare away the locusts. They tried everything in their capacity but could not stop the locusts from destroying their crops.

3. What was the desire of every farmer?
The attack of locusts was so heavy and devastating that the farmers were quite helpless. They tried everything in their capacity but could not stop the locusts from destroying their crops. In this hour of disappointment, every farmer only hoped that the locusts might overlook his farm and go on to the next.

4. Did Margaret know what to do to keep the locusts away?
Margaret was extremely sad and disturbed at the loss of the crops. She was disappointed to see wide-spread devastation on the land. She was angry and fearful. She was helpless and could do nothing to help the farmers in saving their crops.

5. What was the condition of trees?
The condition of the trees was very bad. They were not safe from the attack of the locusts. They looked strange and still. They were clotted with insects and their branches weighed to the ground. The locusts were eating their branches after branches.

6. How did old Stephen treat the stray locust which he found on his shirt?
Old Stephen was angry and disturbed at the loss of the crops. He picked a stray locust off his shirt and split down with his thumbnail. He vented his anger in this way. He could do nothing more to kill them.

7. Are the hoppers different from the locusts?
The hoppers are the young ones of the locusts. They also spread huge destruction. They are equally harmful for the crops. They cause unbearable loss to the crops and plants. They multiply quickly and take minutes to turn green fields into a land of total destruction.

8. Did Margaret lose heart on the loss of crops?
Margaret was extremely sad and disturbed at the loss of the crops. She was disappointed to see wide-spread devastation on the land. She was angry and fearful. She was helpless and could do nothing to help the farmers in saving their crops.

9. Why are the locusts compared with bad weather?
The locusts are compared with bad weather because they are harmful for crops like bad weather. They can come any time to attack crops. They can cause heavy financial loss to the farmers. They are a natural calamity that makes the human beings helpless in saving the crops.

10. Why did the men eat their supper with good appetites?
The men continued to fight the swarm even after all the crops were destroyed because they did not lose heart. They were very optimistic. They had strong faith in God. They were full of courage and confidence. They did not take the loss of crops to their hearts. They ate their supper with good appetites.

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The Foolish Quack Short textual questions and answers

1. What is a clump of trees?
A clump of trees is a group of trees. It is usually found in a garden or forest where the trees grow close to one another. It adds to the natural beauty and makes the scenery charming. Birds and animals like to wander about clumps of trees which provide them with natural habitat and environment.

2. What was stuck in the camel’s throat?
A melon stuck in the camel’s throat when it entered a melon-field. It was hungry and wanted to swallow the melon in one go. But, it was bigger in size and the camel could not handle it properly. It got stuck in its throat and the animal was in a critical condition.

3. What did the quack pretend to cure?
The quack pretended to cure goiter. He saw the swollen throat of the camel and thought that it was suffering from goiter. He was a foolish and stupid fellow. He did not try to know the real cause of the swollen throat of the camel. He just saw it and believed it to be goiter.

4. What did the quack do with the old woman?
The quack applied very cruel treatment to the old woman. He tied a blanket round her neck. Then, he struck her swollen part so forcefully that the poor creature instantly died. In fact, he was an imposter.

5. What was the result of the cure?
The quack applied very cruel treatment to the old woman. He tied a blanket round her neck. Then, he struck her swollen part so forcefully that the poor creature instantly died. In fact, he was an imposter.

6. What was the punishment inflicted upon the quack by the villagers?
The quack applied wrong treatment to the old woman and killed her. It was a murder. The villagers called him a rascal and caught him. They set him to dig her grave otherwise they would take him to the king for a murder and there he would be hanged.

7. For whom did the quack dig the grave?
The quack applied wrong treatment to the old woman and killed her. It was a murder. The villagers called him a rascal and caught him. They set him to dig her grave otherwise they would take him to the king for a murder and there he would be hanged.

8. What did the quack do in the next village?
The quack did not learn a lesson when he just escaped death by killing an old woman through his wrong treatment. He reached the next village and claimed to be a specialist of goiter. This time an old man came forward for treatment. But, the villagers rejected his treatment because he was talking about digging the grave of the patient before he could begin his treatment.

9. Why did not the villagers let the old man get cured?
The villagers did not let the old man get cured by the quack because he was talking about digging his grave. They thought that he was a fake doctor who was talking about digging the grave of the patient before he could begin his treatment. They asked him to get out of the village.

10. Why did the quack come back to the camel men?
The quack claimed to cure goiter after seeing the treatment of the camel by camel-man. He reached a village and applied the same treatment to an old woman. She could not bear it and died instantly. Then, he tried to treat an old man with the same method but the villagers rejected his treatment. He came to realize that his method of treatment was not correct. He came back to the camel-men to know the reason of his wrong treatment.

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The Gulistan of Sa’di questions and answers

1. What was the advice given by Nushirvan to his people?
Nushirvan advised his people to pay for everything lest it should become a custom and the village be ruined. He told his people that the foundation of oppression was small in the world. Whoever enlarged it, was at fault. If the king eats one apple from the garden of a subject, his slaves will pull down the whole tree.

2. What was the remedy suggested by the physicians for the disease of the king?
The king was suffering from a very fatal disease. The physicians tried all sorts of medicines but failed to cure it. It was becoming from bad to worse. The king was in a critical condition and all hopes of his recovery vanished. At last, the physicians suggested to the king to use bile of a person endued with certain qualities to cure his disease.

3. Why did the boy look to the sky and smile?
The boy was purchased by the king to be slaughtered for his health. He wanted to use his bile for the treatment of his deadly disease. The boy was in a helpless situation. Even his parents abandoned him for the trash of the world. He found no refuge except Almighty Allah. He knew that only God was with him in this critical time. So he looked to the sky and smiled.

4. What should be the role of a Qazi?
The role of a Qazi is very important. He should do justice to everybody. He should be neutral and fair. He should make no difference between the rich and the poor. He should decide cases purely on merit. He must ensure that all requirements of justice are fulfilled. He should perform his duty honestly and fearlessly.

5. Why did the king weep?
The king purchased the boy to slaughter him for his treatment. He felt guilty and ashamed of his cruelty. He thought that he was going to shed the blood of an innocent boy. He felt pity for the boy and began to weep. At last, he took mercy on him and freed him.

6. How did the king recover?
The king purchased the boy to slaughter him for his treatment. He felt guilty and ashamed of his cruelty. He thought that he was going to shed the blood of an innocent boy. He felt pity for the boy and began to weep. At last, he took mercy on him and freed him. The king also recovered from the fatal disease and regained health through his good deed.

Long textual questions and answers.

1. Write a note on the character of Nushirvan.
He was famous for his justice. He was very kind and sympathetic to his subjects. He treated them with equality and justice. His people liked and obeyed him. He advised his people to pay for everything and not to take anything free of cost.

2. What should be the role of a king?
The role of a king is very important. He should treat everybody equally and justly. He should be kind and sympathetic to his people. He should not be cruel and harsh towards them. He should ensure their safety and protection. He should also take care of their needs.

3. Can an unjust king flourish?
An unjust king cannot flourish. He cannot rule over them for a long time. Sooner or later, the people will stand against him. They will challenge his authority. There will be bloodshed and disorder. At last, the people will bring a revolution and end his cruel rule. That is why a king should be just and honest.

4. What moral lesson do you get from the second tale?
The moral lesson of the second tale is that a tyrant does not remain in the world, but the curse on him abides for ever. Nobody likes a cruel person. He is hated and cursed by all. Even after his death, the people speak ill of him.

5. Compare and contrast the three tales.
The three tales describe very interesting incidents with very valuable moral lessons. The first tale gives the moral lesson that a man does not realize the worth of safety from the misfortune until he has tasted it. The second tale gives the moral lesson that a tyrant does not remain in the world, but the curse on him abides for ever. The third tale gives the moral lesson that a person who takes mercy on others is blessed by God.

6. Describe an event in which the trouble of one person affects the others.
Once a king and his slave were sailing in the same boat. The slave had the first experience of the sea. He began to cry for fear of being drowned. He created trouble and discomfort for the king and others. He was thrown into the sea and then taken out. He then became silent and peaceful. He realized the worth of safety in the boat

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The Use of Force questions and answers

1. What was the condition of the parents on the arrival of the doctor?
On the arrival of the doctor, the condition of the parents was not good. They seemed to be worried and nervous. They looked suspicious and distrustful of the doctor when he met them. Their only child was sick and they were quite restless and anxious.

2. What was the behaviour of the child with the doctor?
The behaviour of the child with the doctor was not good. She did not promptly respond to the instruction of the doctor. She remained unmoved and non-cooperative. She was staring at him angrily. She resisted his treatment aggressively. She fought with him and broke his glasses.

3. She had a fever for three days, hadn’t she?
Yes, she had a fever for three days. Her father told the doctor about it. The parents tried to tell the doctor about the serious condition of her. But, the doctor had to check her to diagnose the real cause of her illness. The parents expected him to tell them everything about her illness.

4. Did the girl change her expression when the doctor said, “Does your throat hurt you?”
The girl did not change her expression. She was staring at the doctor continuously. She seemed to be afraid of him. She resisted strongly when he tried to check her. She became quite angry and aggressive. She tried her best to keep him away from her. She was rebuked by her parents for her misbehaviour with him.

5. Why did the doctor call the sick girl by her first name?
The doctor called the sick girl by her first name out of love and affection for the child. She was not responding to him. She was resisting his treatment. The doctor showed love and kindness to the child to persuade her to open her mouth. But, she remained unmoved.

6. Did the sick girl promptly respond to the instruction of the doctor?
The sick girl did not promptly respond to the instruction of the doctor. She remained unmoved and non-cooperative. She was staring at him angrily. She resisted his treatment aggressively. She fought with him and broke his glasses.

7. Why did the parents rebuke her?
The parents rebuked her for her misbehaviour with the doctor. She was becoming rude and harsh. She broke his glasses. She was fighting with him. She was crying and shouting loudly. Her behaviour was shameful and she created embarrassment for her parents.

8. What was the threat of the doctor to the child if she did not show her throat?
The child was resisting medical treatment strongly. The doctor threatened her that he would have to use force to open her mouth if she did not show her throat. And that she might die of diphtheria. It was necessary to force the child to open her mouth for her safety and protection. Being a child, she was unaware of the danger she was in.

9. Why did she break the wooden blade?
She was resisting medical treatment and did not let the doctor open her mouth. She was quite aggressive and angry. She was crying in pain. The doctor tried to open her mouth with the wooden blade but she broke it into pieces in anger. She wanted to run away from the doctor.

10. What was the condition of the tonsils of the sick girl?
The tonsils of the sick girl were in a very bad condition. They were covered with membrane. These were the real cause of her sickness. She was suffering from diphtheria. She was absorbing considerable amount of poison because of these tonsils. At last, the doctor came to know of her sickness.

Long textual questions and answers.

1. How did the child look by appearance?
The child was very attractive. Her beauty was matchless. She was as strong as a heifer. She had magnificent thick blonde hair. She could be photographed and reproduced in photo sections of newspapers.

2. Why did the parents keep the sick child in the kitchen?
The parents kept the sick child in the kitchen where the atmosphere was warm. She was very ill and damp atmosphere was not suitable for her. The parents were very afraid of her serious condition and they took extreme care to provide her safe and comfortable environment.

3. How did the doctor succeed in examining her throat?
The doctor faced tough resistance from the child. She did not open her mouth. She fought very hard with the doctor to keep her mouth closed. However, it was necessary to open her mouth to diagnose her disease. The doctor used force and overpowered her neck and jaws. He then used a heavy silver spoon and forced it back of her teeth and down her throat till she gagged. He was able to see tonsils in her throat.

4. Describe the feelings of the doctor in his struggle to diagnose the disease.
The doctor had mixed feelings in his struggle to diagnose the disease. In the beginning, he behaved politely and kindly with the child. He tried his best to treat the child with love and affection. But, the child did not respond. She remained non-cooperative and aggressive. She even broke his glasses. Then, the doctor got angry. He was in rage. He wanted to tear the child into pieces in his anger. He used force and overpowered the child for treatment.

5. Compare and contrast the conduct of a healthy child and a sick child.
The conduct of a healthy child is good and normal while the conduct of a sick child is bad and abnormal. A healthy child behaves well and is co-operative while a sick child misbehaves and is non-cooperative. A healthy child is obedient and polite while a sick child is aggressive and harsh. A healthy child smiles and plays while a sick child weeps and cries.

6. Under what circumstances can the use of force be justified?
The use of force can be justified when the health and safety of a patient is involved. Life is very precious and health is wealth. Sometimes a sick patient may resist medical treatment, we need to use force for his or her protection and recovery. Therefore, the use of force is justified in the interest of the resisting patients.

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The Reward questions and answers

1. What was the subject discussed at the Club?
The subject discussed at the Club was opportunity and determination. Some friends were in favour of opportunity to get success and some friends were in favour of determination to get sucess. Terbut and Jorkens presented their point of views about opportunity and determination. They exchanged arguments. At the end of the story, it was proved that both opportunity and determination are required for success.

2. What did Terbut think of Jorken’s argument?
Terbut disagreed with him. Jorkens was in favour of determination to get success while Terbut was in favour of opportunity to get success. Terbut was not convinced with the arguments of Jorkens. He told him that millions of people had no opportunity to make progress in the world. But, Jorkens told him that any person could get anything through determination.

3. How did Jorkens convince that a man can become a skating champion of the Sahara?
Jorkens convinced them by saying that a man could become a skating champion of the Sahara by first making the money for this purpose. Then, he would build a skating-rink in the Sahara and organize a competition there. He would be skating champion all right, if he really gives all his time to it.

4. How did Gorgios persuade his people to make his country strong?
Gorgios tried to pesuade his people to make his country strong. He told them that there should be a post for a court acrobat. This acrobat would be physically strong and perfect. His physical fitness and abilities would encourage and strengthen their soldiers. Then, these strong soldiers would protect their rights and win battles for them against their enemies.

5. What was the viewpoint of the parents of Gorgios?
The parents of Gorgios were in favour of opportunity. They thought that his ambition was just a wild idea. They thought that opportunity was required for success. But, Gorgios wanted to prove them wrong through his determination. It took him more than sixty years to get his ambition. However, at the end, he realized that his parents were right. Both opportunity and determination are needed to achieve ambition of life.

6. What were the arrangements made for the function of inauguration?
The arrangements for the function were very impressive. The uniform of Gorgios was very beautiful. The great throne -room was turned into a kind of gymnasium. Great curtains of red and gold were hung along the walls. There were high swings of acrobats hung down with gilded ropes from the ceiling. There was also a row of neat hurdles on the polished floor.

7. Describe the scene of inauguration. Write five sentences.
The scene of inauguration was very attractive. There was a flood of lights. A band of musicians in pale green and golden dresses began to play sweet tunes. Gorgios was wearing a very splendid dress made of red velvet. Even the bright dresses of the ladies were put in shade before his matchless dress. His white hair and the red uniform of the Court acrobat were looking perfect. Everybody welcomed him and clapped for him.

8. What were the feelings of Gorgios on the occasion?
Gorgios had mixed feelings on the occasion. He was glad as well sad. He was glad that he had got his ambition. He also looked tired by his long patience and the work of a life time. He was now not as energetic as he was young. Both his parents had died. They were not there to welcome him. Naturally, he felt sad.

9. Did Gorgios use any short cut to achieve his ambition?
Gorgios achieved his ambition through hard work and determination. He did not use any short cut to get his ambition. It took him more than sixty years to do it. He struggled very hard and stuck to his ambition. He did not lose heart. He was not discouraged by the disappointing words of the people. At last, he succeeded in becoming court acrobat.

10. How long had Gorgios to stick to get his ambition achieved?
Gorgios achieved his ambition through hard work and determination. He did not use any short cut to get his ambition. It took him more than sixty years to do it. He struggled very hard and stuck to his ambition. He did not lose heart. He was not discouraged by the disappointing words of the people. At last, he succeeded in becoming court acrobat

Long textual questions and answers.

1. Discuss the political views of Jorkens.
Jorkens was in favour of determination to get success in the world. He explained his case with solid arguments. He told his friends a story of a young athelete who achieved his ambition through determination. The story showed that the young man used politics to pave the way for getting his ambition. Jorkens explained that one should try to have enough power to get one’s ambition achieved. His views were so convincing that nobody from his friends could reject them.

2. How did Gorgios achieve his ambition?
Gorgios achieved his ambition through hard work and determination. He did not use any short cut to get his ambition. It took him more than sixty years to do it. He struggled very hard and stuck to his ambition. He did not lose heart. He was not discouraged by the disappointing words of the people. At last, he succeeded in becoming court acrobat.

3. Do you agree or disagree with the viewpoint of the writer? Give five reasons.
We agree with the viewpoint of the writer on the following grounds:

1. A determined person can get anything.
2. There is no short cut in life to get success.
3. An idle person can achieve nothing.
4. Hard work is the key to success.
5. Strong will-power can lead us anywhere because as there is a will, there is a way.

4. Why were the brilliant dresses put in the shade at the inauguration?
Gorgios looked so charming and attractive in his new dress that the brilliant dresses of all were put in the shade at the inauguration. His dress was bright and impressive. It was made of red velvet. It had shining buttons and lines of golden lace. It was matchless in beauty and colour. Even the costly and colourful dresses of the ladies looked dull.

5. What is the lesson that the story teaches?
The story teaches the moral lesson that a person who remains determined and keeps on his struggle wins his ambition. Life is full of ups and downs. We should not lose heart and become frustrated. We should bear in mind that no pains no gains. Failure is the first step towards success and glory. Nothing is impossible in this world if we remain resolved and steadfast.

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The Piece of String questions and answers

1. Why did Manana accuse Hubert of picking the lost pocketbook?
Manana accused Hubert of picking the lost pocketbook because he had seen him pick up something from the ground. Then, he blamed him for picking up the lost pocketbook without any proof. It is said that Manana had old enmity with Hubert and he thought it a golden opportunity to take revenge on poor Hubert. It seemed that Manana was a man of dead conscience. He tried to take away his honour through false blame.

2. What did the people think of Hubert when they heard the return of the pocketbook by some other person?
The people thought that Hubert was still blameworthy even when they heard the return of the pocketbook. They thought that he was acting cleverly. He might have thrown the pocketbook on the way to the village. It was a strange logic without any proof. They cursed and criticized him behind his back. They called him old rascal.

3. Why did George give the pocketbook to his employer?
George gave the pocketbook to his employer because he was an illiterate person. He did not know how to read it. He could have played an effective role in removing the false blame of theft on Hubert if he knew how to read. He could have explained the innocence of Hubert. But, both poverty and illiteracy often combine to bring miseries for the poor people like Hubert.

4. What made Hubert shameful?
Hubert felt shameful when he was falsely accused of theft. It was a baseless blame. He thought that nothing was more shameful in the world than to be called a liar. He was hurt at his disgrace and insult. His character and self-respect were in danger. He wanted to remove the stigma of theft from his character.

5. Why did the people make fun of his innocence?
The people made fun of his innocence. They thought that he was making lame excuses. They did not believe in his story of a piece of string. They abused him and called him old rascal. They thought that he might have thrown the pocketbook on the way to the village. They criticized him behind his back. The more he tried to explain, the more he was suspected.

6. Why did he keep claiming his innocence before his death?
He kept claiming his innocence before his death to show that he was speaking the truth and that a dying person could not tell a lie. He was in deep grief and sorrow over his insult and disgrace. He was a very sensitive fellow. He wanted to remove the stigma of theft from his character. He wanted to regain his lost honour and self-respect. He tried hard even at the last breath to convince people about his innocence.

Long textual questions and answers.

1. Write a note on the character of Hubert.
Hubert was a simple and honest country man. He was truthful and hardworking. He was an innocent fellow. He was falsely accused of theft. He felt shame and disgrace. He tried hard to convince the people about his innocence but all in vain. Nobody believed him. They called him a liar. They abused him and called him old rascal. At last, he could not bear his insult and died. A great flood proved his innocence. It destroyed the people and their belongings.

2. Write ten lines on the mentality of the people who did not believe Hubert.

1. They were very selfish people.
2. They were narrow-minded and cruel.
3. They had negative and sick mentality.
4. They had no respect for poor people like Hubert.
5. They had no moral courage.
6. They lacked sense of right and wrong.
7. They were so perverted that even when pocketbook was found, still they tortured Hubert.
8. They believed in what the powerful people like the Mayor told them.
9. They were morally corrupt.
10. They were sadistic people who took delight in torturing others.

3. Why did the Mayor not believe the innocence of Hubert?
The Mayor took the words of Manana as true. He considered Manana to be a man of worthy credence. He himself did not try to find out the reality. He showed a poor judgement. Also, Hubert was a poor and simple man. He could not clarify his point of view satisfactorily. His poverty and simplicity led the Mayor to believe that he was a thief.

4. Was it necessary for Hubert to continue pleading his innocence?
Yes, it was necessary for Hubert to continue pleading his innocence. He did not steal the lost pocketbook. He was called a liar which was very shameful for him. He was deeply hurt and shocked. His self-respect was injured. His character was suspected. Therefore, it was necessary for him to continue pleading his innocence to restore his lost honour and reputation.

5. What suggestions can you give to Hubert to save him from such a humiliating situation?
Hubert should have followed the following suggestions to save himself from such a humiliating situation.

1. He should have hired the services of a good lawyer for pleading his case properly before a court of law.
2. He should have reported the matter to the police when the lost pocketbook was found.
3. He should have brought a defamation case against those who falsely blamed him even when the lost pocketbook was found.
4. He should have spiritedly fought his case in a court of law when no evidence of theft was found against him.
5. He should have exposed the hypocrisy of Manana who falsely blamed and suspected him.

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Thank you, M’am questions and answers

1. What was the time when the boy tried to snatch the purse of the woman?
It was about eleven o’clock at night. It was pitched dark outside. She was walking alone. It was a deserted road. Nobody was around at that time. The atmosphere looked horrible and grim at dead of night. It was an ideal time for criminals to strike at a lonely woman.

2. What happened to the boy when he tried to snatch the purse?
The boy lost his balance and fell down on his back on the side walk. He wanted to run away quickly but the fate was not kind to him. The large woman simply turned around and kicked him right square in his blue jeans sitter. Then she reached down and shook him by his shirt front until his teeth rattled.

3. What was the reaction of the woman?
The reaction of the woman was very harsh and quick. She caught the boy instantly. She was angry and punished him severely. It showed her mental and physical alertness. The boy wanted to outsmart her by running away. But, she outclassed him and made a lesson of him.

4. What was the conduct of the people when they saw the incident?
The conduct of the people was different when they saw the incident. They did not intervene to free the boy. At that time two or three people passed, stopped, turned to look, and some stood watching. They seemed indifferent. They feared that they might be implicated by the police in this matter if they got involved in this matter for nothing. So, they preferred to look on and neither sided with the woman nor the boy.

5. How did the boy look physically?
The boy looked as if he were fourteen or fifteen, frail and willow-wild, in tennis shoes and blue jeans. He was in a miserable condition.

6. What was the condition of the boy when the woman gave him a few jerks?
The condition of the boy was very bad when the woman gave him a few jerks. He was afraid and nervous. He struggled to free himself. He thought that he would be taken to jail. He was trembling with fear. He began to apologize to the woman for his misbehaviour.

7. Why did the woman ask the boy to wash his face?
The woman asked the boy to wash his face because his face was dirty. He was in a bad condition. He had not anybody at home to tell him to wash his face. He was unclean, poor and hungry. Also, the woman asked him to comb his hair to look presentable. She was taking care of him like a mother.

8. Why did not the boy run from the house of the woman?
The boy did not run from the house of the woman because he did not want to lose the trust of the woman. He was much impressed with the kind and sympathetic behaviour of the woman. He was beginning to change. He thought it improper and immoral to deceive such a nice and caring lady who was treating him kindly instead of taking him to jail for his crime.

9. Why did not the woman watch the boy while preparing a dish?
The woman did not watch the boy while preparing a dish because she wanted to create the feelings of trust and confidence in him. Also, she did not want to make him feel guilty of his crime. She freed him in her house and showed frankness and friendship with him. Psychologically, the boy was impressed with such kind of trust and freedom. She successfully changed him into a good boy.

10. What was the nature of the woman’s job?
The woman worked in a hotel beauty shop that stayed open late. She was a beautician there. Her shop was visited by all kinds of women including blondes,redheads and Spanish. It showed that she was a famous beautician and ran her business successfully.

1. Write the incident in your own words.
A large woman was going home at night. Suddenly, a boy tried to snatch her purse. She caught the boy and punished him. She took him to her home where she treated him kindly and nicely. It had a good and positive effect on him. He left his bad ways and became a good person.

2. What was the effect of the behaviour of the woman on the boy?
The effect of the behaviour of the woman on the boy was very positive and good. She completely changed him through her kind and affectionate behaviour. The boy was much impressed with her nice treatment. She awakened his conscience. She taught him difference between right and wrong. He left his bad ways and promised to behave himself in future.

3. Why did she treat the boy nicely in her home after punishing him in the street?
First, the woman punished the boy to show that any crime is punishable and then she treated him nicely because she wanted to teach him good manners. She wanted to to make him a good human being. Her good and nice behaviour had a very positive effect on the boy. He left his bad ways and determined to show good behaviour in future.

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Dark they were and Golden Eyed questions and answers

1. Why did Harry want to go back to the Earth?
Harry wanted to go back to the Earth because he faced unsuitable living conditions on Mars. He felt strange and lonely there. The atmosphere of Mars was quite harsh and unfit for them. Their house was in bad shape. The Martian virus changed their identities.Even the food items began to change. He found the cities of Mars dead and deserted. That is why he wanted to go back to the Earth.

2. Why did he want to stay?
He wanted to stay on Mars for some time to build a rocket to go back. All the space rockets were destroyed and there was no way to go back to the Earth again. They were stranded there. He informed others about the need to build a rocket. He also tried to take help from them to make a rocket. But , instead of helping him, they made fun of him.

3. What climate did they face?
They faced very harsh and damaging climate on Mars. Their house was in bad shape. They all became dark and golden-eyed. Even the food items were changed. The Martian virus changed their identities. The summer was so extreme that all the canals became dry.

4. What was the condition of the Bittering family on hearing the news of the war on the Earth?
The condition of the Bittering family on hearing the news of the war on the Earth was very bad. They were in deep mental shock. They became nervous and upset. They began to weep and cry. They were worried about their safety. All the space rockets were destroyed. There was no way for them to go back to the Earth again. They felt stranded permanently on Mars. Their condition was quite miserable and alarming.

6. Why did the old man take the steep path?
The old man took the steep path to check his physical fitness and health. He was a heart patient. He could not go straight up to the mountain. He made steep paths to climb the mountain easily and comfortably. It showed his strong stamina and will-power. He was a lover of nature. He did not hesitate to do hard work which added to his health and strength.

7. Why did the son at the age of six cry?
The son at the age of six cried because he had lost his wooden plough. He loved his wooden plough very much. His father made another plough for him. But, he did not love it as much as he loved the first one. It was very amazing of the writer that he still remembered this incident which showed his innocent memory.

8. What were the feelings of the old man at the age of seventy?
The old man at the age of seventy was still confident and courageous.He was a man of strong will-power and stamina. He was cheerful and lively. He could still cover long distances on foot and climb the mountain top. He was full of strength and energy.

9. Why had the old man planted his secret garden?
The old man had planted his secret garden in the new and rich land because anything grown in this land had better flavour. It had a special fragrance. He also wanted to give his son a surprise. He was a lover of nature and he knew the amazing qualities of the new land. Its charm attracted the old man to come and clear it. That is why he had planted his secret garden over there.

Long textual questions and answers.

1. What circumstances did the Bittering family face?
The Bittering family faced very harsh and unsuitable circumstances on the Mars. They faced an unfriendly climate. There was fog at night. The canals were dry due to extreme summer. Their food was poisoned by the Martian virus. Their house was burned and discoloured by the extreme wind. They became dark and golden-eyed. They felt lonely and fearful.

2. How social were the people of Mars?
The people of Mars were very friendly and polite. They were civilized people. They did not bear any hatred or enmity against anybody. They were very co-operative people. They were harmless and did not tease anybody. They did not hesitate to mix with others. They were broad-minded and cheerful.

3. How did the life change finally? Was this better or worse?
The life on the Mars changed negatively. Harry and his family lost their earthliness. They lost their identities. They became dark and golden-eyed. Even their house and other things which they brought from the Earth changed in a negative way. They became slim and thin. It was proved that the Earth is the only suitable place where human beings can live comfortably and peacefully.

4. Write the story in your own words.
The Bittering family are emigrants who join the other Earth people to run away to the Mars to escape nuclear war on the Earth. They are stranded there because all the space rockets were destroyed. They are forced to stay there. During their stay on the planet Mars, they face unfriendly and unsuitable circumstances. They begin to lose their identities and earthliness. They begin to change. Finally, they become dark and golden eyed.

5. What differences can you point out in the life style of the people of two different planets?
There are many differences in the life style of the people of two different planets. The people of Mars were very friendly and polite. Whereas the Earth people are not so friendly and polite. They often mistreat and abuse one another. The people of Mars were civilized people. They did not bear any hatred or enmity against anybody. Whereas the Earth people are full of hatred and enmity. They are engaged in battles and wars. The people of Mars were very co-operative people. They were harmless and did not tease anybody. Whereas the Earth people are mostly selfish. They want to mint money at the cost of others. The people of Mars did not hesitate to mix with others. They were broad-minded and cheerful. Whereas the Earth people are narrow-minded and superstitious.

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