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All questions of The Thief's Story for Class 10 Exam

Direction: The entire staff was roused and maids rushed in and out bringing his day bed, his night bed, favourite cushions, toys and rubber rings, breakfast bowl, lunch bowl, supper bowl. Realising that my car would never hold all the stuff, I started to drive away. As I moved off, Mrs. Pumphrey, with a despairing cry, threw an armful of the little coats through the window. I looked in the mirror before I turned the corner of the drive; everybody was in tears. Out on the road, I glanced down at the pathetic little animal gasping on the seat by my side. I patted the head and Tricky made a brave effort to wag his tail. “Poor old lad,” I said. “You haven’t a kick in you but I think I know a cure for you.”
As the extract indicates, Mrs. Pumphrey indulged Tricky and bought him many things. Choose the option that best describes the kinds of advertisement/s that seem likely to persuade Mrs. Pumphrey to buy something for Tricky.
(i) Statistics Appeal – Such advertisements use facts and data to convince consumers to buy products.
(ii) Scarcity Appeal – Such advertisements create a feeling of exclusivity and are often used to convince people to take advantage of a sale or limited period offer.
(iii) Personal Appeal – Such advertisements focus on evoking emotions to convince consumers and often relate to family or other inter-personal interactions.
(iv) Fear Appeal – Such advertisements focus on inspiring some kind of fear to convince consumers to take action in order to avoid certain negative or undesirable consequences.
  • a)
    Options (i), (ii) and (iv)
  • b)
    Options (iii) and (iv)
  • c)
    Options (i), (iii) and (iv)
  • d)
    Option (ii) only
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The narrator was looking for simple people to dupe. This is evident from the description of Anil as "easy-going, kind and simple enough for my purpose." The narrator's purpose is hinted at being nefarious, as he mentions wanting to "get into the young man’s confidence," suggesting a motive of manipulation or deceit rather than genuine friendship or interest in the wrestling match.

Direction: He discovered the joys of being bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes. He became an accepted member of the gang, an unlikely, silky little object among the shaggy crew, fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night. He had never had such a time in his life. All the while, Mrs. Pumphrey hovered anxiously in the background, ringing a dozen times a day for the latest bulletins.
Pick the option that reveals Tricky’s characteristics in the context of ‘fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night.’
(1) selfish
(2) happy
(3) greedy
(4) confident
(5) sturdy
(6) cruel
  • a)
    2, 4 and 5
  • b)
    Only 2
  • c)
    1 and 5
  • d)
    3, 4 and 6
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Chavan answered
Tricky's Characteristics

• Introduction
Tricky is a silky little object who has discovered the joys of being bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes. He became an accepted member of the gang, fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night.

• Happy
Tricky's behavior of fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night shows that he is happy. He is enjoying his time with the gang and is involved in various activities.

• Confident
Tricky's behavior also shows that he is confident. He is not afraid to fight for his share at meal times and is brave enough to hunt rats in the old hen house at night.

• Sturdy
Tricky's behavior also indicates that he is sturdy. He is able to handle being bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes and is able to fight like a tiger for his share at meal times.

• Conclusion
Tricky's characteristics in the context of 'fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night' are happy, confident and sturdy.

Direction: The entire staff was roused and maids rushed in and out bringing his day bed, his night bed, favourite cushions, toys and rubber rings, breakfast bowl, lunch bowl, supper bowl. Realising that my car would never hold all the stuff, I started to drive away. As I moved off, Mrs. Pumphrey, with a despairing cry, threw an armful of the little coats through the window. I looked in the mirror before I turned the corner of the drive; everybody was in tears. Out on the road, I glanced down at the pathetic little animal gasping on the seat by my side. I patted the head and Tricky made a brave effort to wag his tail. “Poor old lad,” I said. “You haven’t a kick in you but I think I know a cure for you.”
Q. The narrator describes Tricky as a “pathetic little animal”. The use of the word ‘pathetic’ indicates that the narrator:
  • a)
    Was very fond of Tricky.
  • b)
    Thought Tricky was contemptible.
  • c)
    Pitied Tricky’s condition.
  • d)
    Believed Tricky’s health was deteriorating.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Crafty Classes answered
Anil's approach to money, as described, aligns with a non-materialistic view where the importance is placed on the well-being of others rather than hoarding wealth for oneself. His actions, such as borrowing money and then lending it, worrying about his next cheque but then celebrating its arrival without concern for saving, suggest a person who values human connections and the joy of living over accumulating wealth. This attitude is consistent with someone who would think it's important to help others even if they don't have much themselves.

Direction: The entire staff was roused and maids rushed in and out bringing his day bed, his night bed, favourite cushions, toys and rubber rings, breakfast bowl, lunch bowl, supper bowl. Realising that my car would never hold all the stuff, I started to drive away. As I moved off, Mrs. Pumphrey, with a despairing cry, threw an armful of the little coats through the window. I looked in the mirror before I turned the corner of the drive; everybody was in tears. Out on the road, I glanced down at the pathetic little animal gasping on the seat by my side. I patted the head and Tricky made a brave effort to wag his tail. “Poor old lad,” I said. “You haven’t a kick in you but I think I know a cure for you.”
Q. What might the atmosphere of the household in the above extract signify?
  • a)
    Mrs. Pumphrey’s status in society reflected in Tricky’s lifestyle.
  • b)
    The staff’s love for Tricky, which matched that of Mrs. Pumphrey
  • c)
    The grand life of comforts and luxuries that Tricky enjoyed.
  • d)
    Mrs. Pumphrey’s indulgence and anxiety acted upon by the staff.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The odd pair out is "hop :: skip" because the others (give :: take, lose :: find, buy :: sell) are direct antonyms or represent reciprocal actions where one action is the counterpart of the other. "Hop" and "skip," however, are similar types of actions rather than opposites or a direct give-and-take relationship. This makes it the odd pair out in the context of borrowing and lending, which are direct reciprocal actions.

Direction: He discovered the joys of being bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes. He became an accepted member of the gang, an unlikely, silky little object among the shaggy crew, fighting like a tiger for his share at meal times and hunting rats in the old hen house at night. He had never had such a time in his life. All the while, Mrs. Pumphrey hovered anxiously in the background, ringing a dozen times a day for the latest bulletins.
All the while, Mrs. Pumphrey hovered anxiously in the background”.
Given below are different types of Pet Parenting styles described in Country Living, (an e-magazine).
Choose the option that best reflects the kind of Pet owner Mrs. Pumphrey was.
(i) Traffic Light Pet owners have a healthy balance of rules and freedom and give clear and consistent signals for ‘yes’ and ‘no’.
(ii) Entranced Pet owners have the best intentions, but as soon as their pet locks eyes with them and gives their command, they are at their pet’s back and call.
(iii) The Goose Pet owners go all-out in protecting their pet. They often limit their time away from their pet, especially puppies.
(iv) The Baggage Handler Pet owners love being close to their pets and going on adventures together. They are always mindful of the pet’s comfort and security.
  • a)
    Option (i)
  • b)
    Option (ii)
  • c)
    Option (iii)
  • d)
    Option (iv)
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Rana answered
Mrs. Pumphrey wanted the best for her pet even though it appears to be strict, but as soon as she looks at her pet, she forgets all about it and becomes lenient.

Direction: The entire staff was roused and maids rushed in and out bringing his day bed, his night bed, favourite cushions, toys and rubber rings, breakfast bowl, lunch bowl, supper bowl. Realising that my car would never hold all the stuff, I started to drive away. As I moved off, Mrs. Pumphrey, with a despairing cry, threw an armful of the little coats through the window. I looked in the mirror before I turned the corner of the drive; everybody was in tears. Out on the road, I glanced down at the pathetic little animal gasping on the seat by my side. I patted the head and Tricky made a brave effort to wag his tail. “Poor old lad,” I said. “You haven’t a kick in you but I think I know a cure for you.”
Given below are some well-known quotes shared by the staff to console Mrs. Pumphrey, after Tricky’s departure. Choose the option that correctly identifies the quote that IS NOT appropriate to the consolation offered.
  • a)
    Option (i)
  • b)
    Option (ii)
  • c)
    Option (iii)
  • d)
    Option (iv)
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The reference to making a little money 'this way' actually suggests a method that might be seen as unconventional or irregular, as indicated by Anil's sporadic earning pattern and the somewhat amused observation that writing for magazines is a "queer way to make a living." The phrase does not explicitly align with being charitable, sensible, inappropriate, or aggressive but highlights an unconventional and fluctuating method of income. The correct interpretation should focus on the unconventional aspect rather than charitable, making the original answer and explanation misaligned with the provided extract.

Why did Anil allow the protagonist to stay despite the poor meal he cooked?
  • a)
    Anil felt sorry for the protagonist
  • b)
    Anil needed help around the house
  • c)
    Anil found the protagonist's persistence endearing
  • d)
    Anil had no one else to cook for him
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding Anil's Decision
Anil's choice to allow the protagonist to stay, despite the subpar meal he prepared, is deeply rooted in the theme of persistence and human connection.
Persistence and Endearment
- Anil found the protagonist's determination to help endearing.
- The protagonist, despite lacking culinary skills, was eager to learn and improve, which reflects a sincere effort.
- This quality of persistence is often appreciated in relationships, as it shows a willingness to grow and contribute.
The Importance of Connection
- Anil, as a character, values companionship and support.
- By allowing the protagonist to stay, he is fostering a bond that goes beyond just sharing meals.
- The protagonist's desire to assist and his willingness to try, even when the results are not ideal, create a sense of camaraderie.
Lessons in Growth
- Anil's decision highlights the importance of patience and mentorship.
- It emphasizes that skill development takes time and practice, and Anil recognizes the potential in the protagonist.
- This nurturing attitude can encourage individuals to embrace their shortcomings and strive for improvement.
In summary, Anil's choice is a reflection of human empathy and the significance of persistence. The protagonist's earnestness resonates with Anil, leading him to overlook the imperfect meal and focus on the potential for growth and connection. This creates a meaningful relationship that is central to the narrative.

How did Anil respond when the protagonist asked if he could be fed in exchange for cooking?
  • a)
    Anil refused to let the protagonist stay
  • b)
    Anil agreed to let the protagonist stay but without pay
  • c)
    Anil asked the protagonist to leave immediately
  • d)
    Anil offered the protagonist a meal in exchange for cooking
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

When the protagonist proposed that he could cook in exchange for being fed, Anil responded by offering the protagonist a meal if he could indeed cook. This exchange highlighted Anil's willingness to give the protagonist a chance, albeit with conditions, and set the stage for their further interactions.

What emotion did the narrator anticipate Anil would express upon discovering the theft?
  • a)
    Fear
  • b)
    Anger
  • c)
    Acceptance
  • d)
    Sadness
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The narrator expected Anil to display a touch of sadness upon discovering the theft, not for the loss of money but for the loss of trust. This insight into human emotions in response to loss showcases the narrator's understanding of Anil's character and values.

How does Anil’s reaction to the protagonist’s theft illustrate his understanding of human nature?
  • a)
    He believes in strict punishment to deter theft.
  • b)
    He sees the theft as a chance to teach the protagonist a lesson.
  • c)
    He acknowledges the protagonist’s potential for change despite the theft.
  • d)
    He becomes distrustful of everyone after the theft.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Nk Classes answered
Anil’s reaction to the theft illustrates his understanding of human nature by acknowledging the protagonist’s potential for change despite the theft. Anil’s ability to forgive and offer continued support demonstrates his belief in redemption and personal growth, reflecting a deep empathy and understanding of the complexities of human behavior.

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