English Short Questions Notes /Intermediate part1

Click on the each chapter to see Questions and their asnwers

• Button Button: 

• Clearing in the Sky: 

• Dark they were, and Golden-Eyed: 
• Thank you, M’am: 
  
• The Piece of String:
  
   
• The Reward:
  
   
• The Use of Force:
  
   
• The Gulistan of Sa’di:
  
   
• The Foolish Quack: 
  
• A Mild Attack of Locusts:
  
• I have a Dream: 
  
• The Gift of the Magi: 
  
• God be Praised:
  
• Overcoat: 
  
• The Angel and the Author
  
   

• Heat Lightening
  
• The Oyster and the Pearl
  
• A Visit to a Small Planet
  
• A Visit to a Small Planet/Characters:
  

POEM SUMMARIES

• The Rain
  
• Night Mail
  
• Loveliest of Trees, the Cherry Now
  
• O Where are You Going
  
• In the Street of the Fruit Stalls

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In the Street of the Fruit Stalls Poem Summary

This poem has the background of world war. There is destruction and disorder everywhere. The world is full of misery and sufferings. When the poem opens, there is a street of fruit stalls. There is a variety of fruit piled up like cannon balls. The poor children enter the street of fruit stalls. They have just one coin each to spend. They are hungry. They buy fruit and satisfy their hunger. They forget the war and its destruction. The poem presents a very gloomy picture of the world. The poor have nothing to eat while big amounts of money are spent on war and its preparations. But, all this has failed to crush man’s love for nature. The humanity symbolized by poor children continues to enjoy life even in the darkest moments.

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O Where are You Going / Poem Summary

In this poem, the poet pays tributes to human spirit and courage. This poem is a dialogue between two imaginary persons. The first person is a reader who is a symbol of cowardice while the other person is a rider who is a symbol of bravery and courage. The bold rider wants to go out to conquer the world through his will-power and determination. But, the reader, who is a timid fellow, stops him from going out by saying that his way would be full of ups and downs. There would be diseases, calamities and other difficulties. He would be helpless and friendless. He may fall ill during his journey. But, the bold rider does not get discouraged and terrified. He says to him that all the difficulties and hindrances of the world are looking for him. It is rightly said that a coward dies many times before his death. The bold rider then ventures out to get success and glory. The poem teaches us the moral lesson that the way to glory and success may be uncertain but it can be paved through courage and perseverance.

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Loveliest of Trees, the Cherry Now / Poem Summary

In this poem, the poet describes the beauty and charm of cherry tree. The poet says that it is the loveliest of all trees. It is in full bloom. It is growing along the way that leads to forest. Its surroundings are so fascinating. It is covered with snow. It seems to be wearing white dress for celebrating Easter. The poet says that he is now seventy years old. He wants to be as young as twenty years old to enjoy the beauty of cherry tree. He then wishes to become fifty years old. But, even these fifty years are not enough to enjoy the amazing and matchless beauty of cherry tree. The poet desires to go to the woodland and see cherry covered with snow again and again

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Night Mail / Poem Summary

In this poem, the poet describes the journey of the night mail train which travels at night and brings letters, cheques and postal orders for the people. It does not discriminate between the rich and the poor. It serves them all. It is very punctual and regular in its duty. It is never late. Its way is full of ups and downs but it does not get tired and continues its journey smoothly. It passes through cotton fields and hilly areas. It also passes by populated areas. The sheepdogs do not bark at it because they know that they cannot change its course. They continue to slumber. A jug is shaken in the bed room by the vibration of night mail when it moves along the houses.

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The Rain / Poem Summary

In this poem, the poet describes the beautiful scene of falling rain. The rain is falling on everything. The falling of rain creates a beautiful symphony which is like sweet music. The whole atmosphere looks fresh and charming. The leaves on top of trees drink water first and then pass it down to the lower leaves which quench their thirst afterwards. These lines also offer a metaphor. The upper leaves of trees symbolize rich people who get every opportunity to make progress and mint money. The lower leaves of trees symbolize poor people who are at the receiving end. They do not get equal opportunities to make progress. As a result, they suffer from poverty and backwardness. In the end, the poet hopes that the sun will shine after the rain and it will be a lovely sight.

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A Visit to a Small Planet Play Characters /Question and answers

Q. Write a short note on:

1. Mr. Spelding
He is a newscaster and journalist by profession. He tells his people on TV not to be afraid of the flying object. He is a nervous fellow. He does not like Jhon who is fiance to his daughter. He becomes afraid to see Kreton. He co-operates with General Power. He wants to be the first journalist to interview Kreton.

2. Mrs. Spelding
She is a very polite and kind lady. She is worried about the safety of her house. She likes Kreton and welcomes him in her house. She is not interested in the live broadcasts of her husband.

3. Ellen
She is a very lively and passionate girl. She loves Jhon very much. She is not interested in the live broadcasts of her father. She argues with her father not to scold Jhon. She likes Kreton and wishes to travel in his space ship. She is quite frank with Kreton.

4. John
He is a very hard-working fellow. He grows English walnuts. He is fiance of Ellen. He is a bold fellow. He does not become afraid when the space ship lands at their house. He shakes hands with Kreton and makes friends with him.

5. General powers
The role of General Power in the play is very important. He is responsible for the security of USA. He is a very dutiful and strict fellow. He is very active and alert. He questions Kreton and tries to know his reality. He threatens to arrest him if he does not co-operate. He puts the house of Mr.Spelding under martial law.

6. Kreton
He is very polite and kind to everybody. He behaves very nicely and elegantly. Even when General Power behaves harshly with him, he does not mind and misbehave in response. He does not try to scare others. He does not punish those who try to damage his space ship. He is quite frank and soft with them all. Kreton belongs to some highly advanced world. He has certain extraordinary powers. For example, he can travel in a spaceship without instruments. He is a mind reader. He can speak all languages of the world. He does not die. He can defend himself against any attack.

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A Visit to a Small Planet Question and answers

1. How does kreton prove his extraordinary powers? Write five sentences?
Kreton belongs to some highly advanced world. He has certain extraordinary powers. For example, he can travel in a spaceship without instruments. He is a mind reader. He can speak all languages of the world. He does not die. He can defend himself against any attack.

2. What is the purpose of kreton’s visit?
The purpose of Kreton’s visit is to take control of the whole world. He is interested in the planet earth. He tells General Power that he can manage the affairs of the world all alone. He says that human beings are his hobby. He seems to have supernatural powers.

3. How much advanced is the civilization of kreton than of the Earth?
4. Can the people of the Earth compete with those of kreton?
NOTE: Both questions have the same answer.
The civilization of Kreton is so much advanced that the people of the Earth cannot compete with them. They are advanced scientifically and technologically. They can fly spaceships without instruments. The Earth people cannot do that. They can speak all languages of the world. The Earth people cannot do that. They do not die while the Earth people die. They can control their feelings. The Earth people cannot do that.

5. How damaging is violence in life? Write five sentences?
The violence is very damaging in life. It is very dangerous for a society. It destroys peace of a society. It creates feelings of hatred and enmity in human beings. It creates injustice and inequality in a society. It brutalizes human beings and makes them insensitive towards their fellow beings. As a result, they lack feelings of sympathy and brotherhood.

6. What type of life do you foresee in the year 5000?
The life would be quite advanced and forward both scientifically and technologically. There may be planes without instruments and engines. There may be robots replacing human workforce to a great extent. The means of communication may undergo unbelievable change. It may be possible to travel to other planets and live there.

7. How impressive were the morals of Kreton?
The morals of Kreton were very impressive and civilized. He is very polite and kind to everybody. He behaves very nicely and elegantly. Even when General Power behaves harshly with him, he does not mind and misbehave in response. He does not try to scare others. He does not punish those who try to damage his space ship. He is quite frank and soft with them all.

8. What is the role of General powers in the play?
The role of General Power in the play is very important. He is responsible for the security of USA. He is a very dutiful and strict fellow. He is very active and alert. He questions Kreton and tries to know his reality. He threatens to arrest him if he does not co-operate. He puts the house of Mr.Spelding under martial law.

9. What is the theme of Kreton’s study?
The theme of Kreton’s study is to control the world. He comes from a planet which is very advanced scientifically and technologically. He has studied the planet earth fully. He wants to take its charge. He is interested in earth. He likes human beings very much. Their lives are very charming and fascinating for him. He enjoys his stay in the earth.

10. How does Kreton impress General powers?
Kreton impresses General Power in various ways. General Power first tries to overawe Kreton to make him respond to his questions. But, Kreton impresses him by saying that he is a mind reader. He also impresses him by saying that he knows all the languages of the world. He further surprises him by saying that he does not die and he can travel in a space ship without instruments. General Power is also impressed when he cannot go even near Kreton in his attempt to arrest him.

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The Oyster and the Pearl Questions and answers

1. Do you think that it is right to allow Clay to believe that there is a pearl in the oyster ? Explain briefly.
Yes, it is right to allow Clay to believe that there is a pearl in the oyster. Clay belongs to a poor family. He needs money to bring his father back. It is right to save his innocent belief. He would be hurt if he is told that there is no pearl in the oyster.

2. In your opinion why is the writer willing to buy the pearl? What has he received in return? What does he mean by saying :”As far as I’m concerned the whole thing’s pearl.
The writer is willing to buy the pearl because he wants to help Clay financially. He comes to know that Clay belongs to a poor family. The writer has received the oyster in return. The whole thing was like a pearl for the writer because he could see what others could not.

3. What has attracted Harry and other people to O.K. by-the-sea? Is it the kind of town that appeals to you? Do you think that it resembles an ideal town? Give reasons for your answer.
The town of O.K. By-The-Sea is very attractive. Harry is attracted to this town due to its natural charm and simple people. It is full of natural beauty. The people of this town are very simple, hard-working and honest. This town is not an ideal town because many facilities of life are missing here. The people are mostly poor and uneducated.

4. Harry’s philosophy is of Take it easy (Relax and enjoy life) nature. How does that philosophy appeal to you? Why or why not? Do you think that this philosophy works better in small towns than in large cities? Explain.
The philosophy of life of Harry is very impressive and appealing. We should be happy and fresh. We should avoid tension and frustration. It depends on us to look young even in nineties and look old in thirties. This philosophy works better everywhere.

5. In your opinion does the play reveal the author’s view of life? If so, what is his view of life?
The play reveals the author’s view of life. The play shows that the poor people have to suffer from many hardships of life. They earn their living with great difficulty. They have no facilities of life. They still do not lose heart and carry on their lives happily.

6. Would you call this play on of “The action plays”? Why or why not? How would you describe the play to a friend?
This play cannot be called an action play in true sense. All the action of the play takes place in a shop. Harry is the main character of the play. All the other characters of the play interact with one another at his shop. All the events of the play take place at his shop.

7. Do you think that this would be a good play to produce? Why or why not?
Yes, it would be a good play to produce. The play is very interesting and informative. It shows that poor people suffer from ups and downs of life. They are often satisfied with their poor way of living. The play also shows that we should sacrifice for others to bring them comfort and joys of life.

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Heat Lightening short Question and answers

1. Why could not the girl describe the killer?
The girl could not describe the killer because she was very afraid. She could not see him clearly in the dark. She was quite nervous and upset. She was mentally confused. She was running away from the killer to save herself. She was not in her senses.

2. What were the circumstances that forced her to leave her car?
She was at a party. She was returning home when her car ran out of gas. She could not drive her car. It was dark outside and she could not get fuel from anywhere. She left her car and started walking along the road.

3. Why did she ask for help from the first man?
6. Does the girl become suspicious of the first man as the play progresses?
9. Why did the girl consider the first man her helper?
The girl was very afraid. She was running away from a killer. He was chasing her. She was in danger. She wanted to save her life. She wanted shelter and protection. She asked the first man for help because there was nobody to help her. She was friendless and helpless. Therefore, the girl did not become suspicious of the first man as the play progressed. She considered the first man her helper.

4. What was the condition of the weather?
The condition of the weather was very bad. It was a stormy night. It was continuously raining and thundering outside. There was flash of lightening. The bad weather increased the fear of the girl.

5. How did second man accuse first man of lying?
The second man accused the first man of lying because the first man had locked the door and told him that there was nobody in the room. The first man wanted to hide the girl. But, the second man had seen the girl in the room from outside. So, he accused the first man of lying.

7. What is her impression about the second man?
8. Why did not she accompany the second man?
The girl was very afraid of the second man. She thought that he was the killer. She was quite uncomfortable and nervous in his presence. Therefore, she did not accompany him when the bus arrived.

10. What are the factors that played a role in saving the girl?
There are many factors that played a role in saving the girl. Firstly, it was a chance that she saw the killer dimly in the dark and she started running in the dark. Secondly, it was the stormy weather that forced the second man to come to the station and stop the killer from killing the girl. Thirdly, it was her torch that helped her to recognize the killer. Finally, it was a stray dog that came there by chance and saved the girl from the killer.

11. How did she realize the truth?
The girl realized the truth when she saw her torch in the hands of the killer. She had thrown her torch on the way when the killer was chasing her. When she saw her torch in the hands of the first man, she quickly recognized the killer.

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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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