Introduction:

In the story "The Peddler of Swaffham," the peddler defends himself against not revealing his true identity by using several clever strategies. Let's explore these strategies in detail.

1. Concealing his true intentions:
The peddler initially conceals his true intentions by pretending to be a simple tradesman who is in need of some food and shelter. He presents himself as a weary traveler seeking assistance, which prevents suspicion from arising.

2. Establishing trust and credibility:
To further defend himself, the peddler establishes trust and credibility with the townspeople of Swaffham. He does this by sharing his detailed knowledge about distant lands and engaging in meaningful conversations with the villagers. This makes them believe that he is a well-traveled and knowledgeable person.

3. Displaying humility:
The peddler portrays himself as a modest and unassuming individual. He does not boast about his abilities or knowledge but instead humbly shares his experiences. This humble demeanor helps him gain the villagers' sympathy and trust.

4. Utilizing storytelling:
One of the peddler's most effective defenses is his ability to captivate the townspeople with his storytelling skills. He narrates fascinating tales of his adventures, which not only entertains the villagers but also distracts them from questioning his true identity. The stories create an aura of mystery and excitement around him, making it less likely for anyone to suspect his motives.

5. Avoiding excessive attention:
The peddler avoids drawing too much attention to himself. He remains discreet and does not reveal personal details that could raise suspicions. By blending in with the villagers and participating in their daily activities, he avoids arousing unnecessary curiosity.

Conclusion:
The peddler effectively defends himself against not revealing his true identity by concealing his intentions, establishing trust, displaying humility, utilizing storytelling, and avoiding excessive attention. These strategies enable him to maintain his disguise and successfully interact with the townspeople of Swaffham without arousing suspicion.