English notes Of First Year

Progress
Lines

I wish she wouldn’t dwell ——————– That’s all. Reference

Reference

Professor Corrie is speaking to his widowed sister, Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

Professor Corrie apologizes to his sister for not having received her at the Station. He gives his experiment, as the excuse. He says, he was very busy,
hence he didn’t go. Then he informs Mrs. Meldon, that big experiment is a great success. He has invented, just what he had in mind. He has invented
exactly the thing he wanted to make.
Professor Corrie is certain that his successful experiment will make him famous, across the length and breath of the country and bring him fortune as
well. He is sure that he will be rich, but more than that, he is convinced that he would be famous.

Lines

No, that’s true ——————- is reticence!

Reference

Professor Corrie is talking to his bereaved sister, Mrs. Meldon about his success.

Explanation

Mrs. Meldon, though pleased that Professor Corrie’s experiment is a success has no inkling as to what his experiment is.
Professor Corrie acknowledges the fact that he has not told her anything about his success. He confesses that he believes in keeping secrets to
himself. It is his principle in life, not to divulge anything unless one is forced to. He says no one knows anything about his invention, except himself.
In the Professor’s opinion, utter and complete secrecy is essential for the success of any invention.

Lines

Of course they will ——————– And tin hats, too!

Reference

Professor Corrie is having a chat with his sister, Mrs. Meldon. The talk is about Professor Corrie’s invention.

Explanation

Since Professor Corrie is so secretive about his invention, Mrs. Meldon hasn’t the faintest idea, about his experiment. Professor Corrie is confident that
his invention is so great that, when the British Government listens about his wonderful invention, they will jump for it. Though he agrees with Mrs.
Meldon’s doubt about it.
He says, it was extremely difficult to make the cavalry generals, use the tanks, during the First World War. They were not prepared to make use of the
tanks, until they were forced to use them. Only then, did they realize the value of the tank. He condemns them for not realizing the value of tank and for
not accepting it as a weapon of great value and importance.
Likewise, the inventor of steel hats was not suitably rewarded for his invention. Although, non cab deny the utility and value of the steel helmets, in
protecting the soldiers heads and also saving their lives. Therefore, in contempt, as well as in anger he refers to the cavalry generals as slaughterers of
horses. That is they are useless good for nothing generals fit only for slaughtering horses.
Lines

Oh, how women do fuss ! ————- impersonal devotion.

Reference

Professor Corrie is speaking to his bereaved sister, Mrs. Meldon. He is thoroughly annoyed with her, for harping on the same string.

Explanation

Professor Corrie was eager and impatient, to tell Mrs. Meldon about his successful invention, while Mrs. Meldon kept nagging him by telling him :
Come along, Henry! Your tea will get cold.
This upset him very much. So in this context he utters the above speech, in which he wrongfully condemns all women. He exclaims at the fussiness of
women – at their readiness to get excited about the unimportant things. He condemns the women generally for breaking off important things for
unimportant and trivial things. He feels that women lack in the desire to work with all devotion with al their heart and soul and with full concentration etc.
Professor Corrie further adds, you women are not fit for any single task, which requires complete devotion and energy, nor do you care for the feelings
of others. That’s is why he feels, women have never been great artists or scientist.

Lines

You don’t realise ———————– butchery of boys.

Reference

In this passage, the speaker is Mrs. Meldon and she is addressing her brother, Professor Corrie.

Explanation

In this speech, we detect Mrs. Meldon’s hatred for war. When Professor Corrie mentions that his invention will create a revolution in the field of warfare.
Mrs. Meldon thought that Professor Corrie had invented something, which would abolish warfare. On this remark, Professor Corrie chides his sister for
being so very childish.
Then Mrs. Meldon says, the abolition of war is a subject after her heart. She tells Professor Corrie, you cannot imagine how deeply women like me,
who have suffered because of the war feel about warfare which in her view is an organized manner in which young soldiers are slaughtered and
brutally killed.

Lines

Now, charlotte, when I say ———— made more expedits.

Reference

Professor Corrie is talking to Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

He declines the offer of Mrs. Meldon to have more tea. Then he prepares to explain about his invention.
He says, when I say that war should be revolutionized, I mean that it should be made seedy. That is to say, that it should end quickly. The First World
War lasted for a ridiculous period of five years. It is absolutely nonsense. The war should not have lasted for more than five weeks.

Lines

Well – yes, I think you ———————– succumbs to it.

Reference

Professor Corrie is in deep conversation with Mrs. Meldon about wars and how to end them speedily.
Explanation

Mrs. Meldon is under the false notion that Professor Corrie has invented something, which would restrict the duration of wars. While Professor Corrie
had something different in mind. He explains, in future, whenever war beaks out, the combatants should try their level best, to strike at the enemy, with
all the force at their command. That is to say, the first attack should be so severe and devastating that the enemy would get crushed at once. In this
way, the wars of the future would end very quickly.

Lines

Oh, a mother’s feelings —————– own feelings aside!

Reference

Professor Corrie is talking to his only sister, Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

Professor Corrie was earlier explaining to Mrs. Meldon, about making the weapons of war, more horrible and devastating, in order to end the wars
quickly in future. Mrs. Meldon utters a sarcastic remark saying that her son was 19, when he died and that was a horrible thing for her.
On this Professor Corrie state, you look at your son’s death, from a mother’s point of view. Put your mother’s feelings aside and look at your son’s
death from a broad-point of view – the point of view of the Government.

Lines

Yes. I’ve made tests,——- thousands at once. Thousands!

Reference

Professor Corrie is speaking to Mrs. Meldon, about his discovery.

Explanation

He says, I have made tests and I have succeeded in having discovered a formula, which is exact and precise. It is a combination of chemical elements
and explosives, which would destroy thousands, so completely, that not a trace shall be left. So devastating and lethal, is his invention..

Lines

Cheerful view! ——————- Stupidest man on earth.

Reference

Mrs. Meldon is the speaker and she is talking to her brother, Professor Corrie.

Explanation

Earlier in their talk, Professor Corrie states, his invention would be available to his people. And if, a war comes along in the future, his government will
have only to drop their bomb on their enemy, before they drop theirs on us and the war will have been won. On this Mrs. Meldon remarks, rather
sarcastically, it was someone like him, who invented the kind of shell that, completely obliterated her son, Eddie. Professor Corrie pats Mrs. Meldon on
the shoulder and tries to comfort her. He asks her to take a more cheerful view of life, rather than to keep lamenting on what happened in the past.
It is in this context that Mrs. Meldon remarks, rather angrily ————cheerful view! Meaning how could she have a cheerful view of life, with her only
son and husband, having got killed because of the war. Also, it was her son’s third death anniversary. So how could she be cheerful. That is why she
says that she sometimes wonders at him that in spite of his cleverness, Mrs. Meldon regards him as the Stupidest man in this world.

Lines

Well of course ——————- for a good many Germans.

Reference

Professor Corrie is speaking to his bereaved sister, Mrs. Meldon. He tries to console her after she narrates an emotional account about Eddie, of how
he was a child and then grew up to be a handsome young man and how he was mutilated and destroyed.
Mrs. Meldon just could not overcome this tragic news that her son’s body was mutilated. That there was no decency in his death. So, she makes her
point to Corrie that she cannot take a broad view of that.
On this Professor Corrie says sympathetically, that he understands and appreciates, her point of view. He admits that he son’s death as well as her
husband’s is a grievous blow to her. It must have shattered her emotionally. Therefore, he comforts and consoles her and asks her to keep a check
over her emotions. He also adds that we should take some comfort from the thought that, Eddie, by sacrificing his life, did his duty to his country. That,
we should have some comfort from the thought that, Eddie might have killed a great many Germans before getting killed.

Lines

Yes people with broad ——————— are a fool, Henry.

Reference

Mrs. Meldon is having a heart to heart chat with her brother, Professor Corrie, regarding her son, Eddie.

Explanation

She narrates a long account about Eddie, right from the time that he was born till the time he gets killed in the war. Mrs. Meldon is grievously hurt about
the fact that he son’s body was mutilated and destroyed and that there was nothing to bury. She just cannot forget about her son’s painful death. So
she says,
You see, don’t you Henry, that I can’t take a broad view of that.
Then Professor Corrie tries to comfort her by saying that, we should take consolation from the fact that Eddie, must have accounted for a good many
Germans. But this thought does not comfort Mrs. Meldon. In fact she makes it plain to Corrie and tells him that:
I can’t get any pleasure put of the thought that some poor German is suffering just as I am suffering.
She further tells Professor Corrie that her sympathies would be with the suffering German woman, rather than men like you.
People with broad-view (scientists), because you create weapons, which kill young soldiers. Therefore she regards all scientists as fools. She
confesses that she is not clever and says, someone like me gives birth to a beautiful thing (Eddie), and you guys (scientists), with all you intelligence
can only annihilate it and destroy it. As such, she regards henry, her brother as a fool.

Lines

Really, Charlotte, you’re—————— can’t be helped.

Reference

Professor Corrie is addressing his sister, Mrs. Meldon in a thoroughly angry frame of mind.

Explanation

He blows his top, when Mrs. Meldon tells him, to ask for “thirty pieces of sliver”, as the price for his invention.
The “thirty pieces of silver” are a reference to the reward paid to Judas Iscariot, for betraying Jesus Christ. The phrase is often used to describe a
bribe, given to a traitor. Mrs. Meldon, of course is not thinking of her brother, as a traitor to his country but to humanity in general.
Therefore Professor Corrie is thoroughly annoyed. He tells her, you are really unbreakable. He says, I bear a lot of your nonsense because, you are in
sorrow. But there is a limit to one’s patience. He says, you have not even congratulated me, on my success. You don’t even have goodness to
compliment me, even briefly and unenthusiastically. You have made yourself miserable by continuously feeling sorry over your son’s death over which
nothing can be done. You have made even Hannah, unhappy and sad.

Lines

The fortune of war ———————— by a bayonet.

Reference

Professor Corrie is talking to his sister, Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

Professor Corrie replies to Mrs. Meldon’s remark, his bomb is horrible, as it will make the bodies of man, women and little children rot, if it does not
blow them to pieces. He says that it is the luck of my dear charlotte. Death is death. And what differences does it make, whether a man dies, by getting
blown to pieces, by a bomb or got killed by getting stabled to death, by a bayonet. In fact, the bomb is more merciful of the two.

Lines

My dear Charlotte ————— being damned unpatriotic.

Reference

Professor Corrie is speaking to his unhappy sister, Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

He is replying to Mrs. Meldon’s suggestion that, he should destroy his formula, as his invention will destroy precious lives.
He says, if he were to oblige her, most sensible people would think that he had go mad. Only a few religious fanatics would praise his action. But the
majority of the people would think that I am an idiot. Besides, they would consider my act, as unpatriotic, because it would deprive my own country
from being in a strong position.

Lines

My dear Charlotte—————– destroy my invention.

Reference

Professor Corrie is in conversation with Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

He is astounded at her suggestion, that he should destroy his invention. He is convinced that her grief has loosened the screws of her mind. He feels,
her sorrow has made her mad. How could he destroy his invention for which he has strived so hard – all his life. So, he regards her suggestion, as
nothing short of madness.

Lines

Of course it is ——————— mess like this!

Reference

Professor Corrie, a little annoyed is talking to Mrs. Meldon.

Explanation

He tells her, the formula of the bomb is in my mind. He made it from his own mind. He condemns her for making a terribly mess, in his laboratory by
smashing the retorts and test-tubes etc. Mrs. Meldon felt that she had destroyed Professor Corrie’s invention.
Therefore, Professor Corrie says, even a foolish woman, would have known that Professor Corrie had the invention in his mind. He means, you are so
stupid, that you don’t even know that, the formula of the bomb, must be in my mind.

The Count’s Revenge

Lines
“It comes to this, …………….. and we are ruined.”

Reference

These words are put into the mouth of Albert. He is addressing his mother, the Countess of Morcerf, in his own home, Rue-du-Helder in Paris.

Explanation

Albert is extremely disturbed at the news, he has read in the newspaper about his father’s disgrace. He tells his mother, it comes to this meaning that
things have come to such a stage that his father is openly and publicly disgraced in the newspaper. He says our honour and self-respect are badly
damaged by this disgrace and we are destroyed, we are finished.

Lines

“My father’s disgrace is mine …………….. down into the mire.”

Reference

These lines are uttered by Albert. he is deeply upset about his father’s disgrace. It is on this issue that, he is talking to his mother, the Countess of
Morcerf.

Explanation

Albert is extremely sensitive. He just could not tolerate his father’s disgrace. He regards his father’s disgrace, as his own. He is ashamed, even to go
by his father’s name. He sys my father’s name has been utterly disgraced. Our disgrace has become the talk of town.

Lines

“Ah, the crime is ……………… whom I shall punish.”

Reference

Albert is the speaker of the above lines. He is addressing his mother, the Countess of Morcerf, regarding the disgrace of his father, the Count of
Morcerf.

Explanation

He is obviously in disgust, at his mother’s suggestion that if the President of the Republic is to be blamed for the disgrace of his father, he would kill
him for it. He says, the Deputies are not at fault for condemning my father. They merely performed their duty. After seeing all the proofs, they
pronounced my father guilty. I am not after the one, who is behind my father’s disgrace. The one who published the news of my father’s treachery in
the press. He is the one I am after. He is the one I am looking for and he is the one I shall punish.

Lines

“Why? Indeed! it is no …………. and of our good.”

Reference

The above words are spoken by Albert to his mother, the Countess of Morcerf.

Explanation

Albert answers his mother’s question, as to why he wishes to punish the man, who made his villainy public. He is says, it is now, no longer a matter of
right or wrong or of truth or falsehood. Meaning that it is not whether or not his father is guilty of the crime. It is a question of the family’s honour and
self-respect. Since the family’s honour, has been tarnished, he is going to punish the person, responsible for it.

Lines
“But, Ah! are the cloud ………….. and returned to Paris.”

Reference

The speaker in the above lines is Monte Cristo. He is addressing his friend Albert in his house.

Explanation

Monte Cristo has come, to pay his compliments to the Countess (his former beloved) and Albert. Monte Cristo, after paying his regards to the
Countess, turns to Albert. He takes him by the hand, but notices the trace of anguish and worry, on his brow. He says, I see from the wrinkles on your
brow, that you are unhappy. That after returning to Paris, from normally where we were holidaying together, you have doubtless, met with some form of
tragedy or the other. That’s why the look of unhappiness on your face.

Lines

“I need hardly ask you ……………… of my father’s disgrace.”

Reference

Albert is the speaker in the above lines. He is talking to his friend, the Count of Monte Cristo.

Explanation

Albert tells his friend, on his friend’s inquiry about his misfortune. Whole Paris is talking of it. Meaning that, you would have heard about his father’s
disgrace.

Lines

“But, when a man has done …………….. The rule|follow.”

Reference

Monte Cristo is talking to his friend. Albert.

Explanation

He is in fact, replying to Albert’s request for his help to be his second in the duel that he intends to fight against his father’s enemy. Monte Cristo says,
it would be difficult for him to be his second.
He says if a man insults you, or hits you, a blow then a duel is the best way of taking your revenge of him. Then adds slowly and with deliberation that
when a man does you a terrible harm, gives you slow deep and perpetual pain then you should treat him in the same manner. He says, if a man
damage your eye, then you should also damage his eye. If he breaks your tooth then you too would be justified in breaking his tooth.
In other words, Monte Cristo believes in punishing in the same manner, as his enemy had harmed him. Monte Cristo, is referring to the torture, Count
of Morcerf, Albert’s father inflicted upon him.

Lines

“It is Arab custom …………. of a deadly enemy.”

Reference

The Countess of Morcerf is the speaker and she is speaking to her son. Albert.

Explanation

The Countess is referring to an Arab custom. which is that an Arab never eats or drinks, in the house of his deadly enemy. Albert is astonished at this
disclosure that his dear friend Monte Cristo has never eaten or drunk in his house even though he is his dearest friend. But Albert cannot understand in
what way, can Monte Cristo be regarded as a deadly enemy.
It is fairly obvious, the Countess is ware that, under the grab of Monte Cristo, it is Edmond Pantes, her former lover, who regards her house, as the
house of his enemy (her husband).

Lines

“Ah, the mysterious stranger! ………….. count want with us.”

Reference

The above lines are spoken by the Count of Morcerf. He is speaking to Albert his only son.

Explanation

Morcerf is speaking in a sarcastic tone, to his son about the frequent visits of the Count of Monte Cristo to his house. He refers to him, as the
mysterious stranger because Monte Cristo is a stranger for him. Besides his visits to his own house have always been kept secretive. So Morcerf says,
what did the stranger the count who is foreign to him who has created quite a stir in Paris, whan with them. In a sarcastic manner, he says that did the
noble, the handsome, the ever kind count want with us.

Lines

“I MEAN TO THROW ——————— PIERCE HIM THROUGH THE HEART.”

Reference

The speaker is Albert and he is answering his friend Beachamp, on his inquiry that he was serious about challenging Monte Cristo, his father’s enemy.

Explanation

He clarifies, I mean to challenge the Count of Monte Cristo. He says, I will give him choice of weapons and if he chooses swords – being an expert
swordsman, I would pierce the tip of my sword, through his heart, at dawn, to-morrow morning. Albert has made up his mind about avenging his family
honour, despite the fact that Monte Cristo, is his friend.

Lines

“THE VILLAIN RESOLVED TO——————— HATCHED AGAINST MORTAL MAN.”

Reference

These words are uttered by Monte Cristo. He is addressing the Countess, who has gone to his house, to request him to spare her son, Albert’s life.

Explanation

In answer to the Contess’s question, ‘why did he disgrace her husband’? he bids her to sit down and narrates the story of how her husband, Count of
Morcerf formerly Fern and Mondego, hatched a devilish plot to marry Mercedes. He plotted the plan to marry Mercedes (as the Countess was formerly
known. He was determined to win her hand. With the help of plotters and schemers, he made a devilish plan to put Monte Cristo, out of the way. It was
the most terrible plot a person could ever plot against a human being. With the help of false evidence, he got Monte Cristo, improved for 20 years in an
underground dungeon.

Lines

“NO, EDMOND. I CANNOT —————- 14 YEARS OF WRONGFUL IMPROSONMENT.”

Reference

The speaker in the above lines is the Countess of Morcerf. She is addressing the Count of Monte Cristo.

Explanation
The countess had gone to Monte Cristo’s house, to ask him, why he had brought about disgrace of her family and to request him to spare the life of her
son, Albert. Monte Cristo then narrated the events of 20 years ago, when he was condemned as a traitor to his country by the Count of Morcerf then a
fisherman. He was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment. But luckily, after 14 years Monte Cristo escaped from the prison and pursued Morcerf and
finally disgraced him by publishing the news that it was he who was a traitor. After learning the true facts, the Countess does not blame Monte Cristo
for humiliating her husband. She says even if you take a far more worse revenge than you have for being wrongfully kept in prison for 14 years I shall
not blame you.

Lines

“I CANNOT EXPECT TO——————- ADMIRE AND RESPECT YOU?”

Reference

The Countess of Morcerf is making a fervent appeal to the Count of Monte Cristo to spare the life of her only son, Albert.

Explanation

She says, I cannot expect to have a deep impression upon your heart nor expect to change you mind. But will you not listen to the request of the one
who loved you once who never willfully did you any wrong and who has never stopped admiring or respecting you. Would you not spare the life of my
son. The Countess begs of Monte Cristo. This entreaty the Countess makes after Monte Cristo, reveals him to her and narrates the events of 20 years
ago. How he was wrongfully confined to prison for 20 years by her husband Morcerf and how he escaped after 14 years and disgraced her husband by
publishing the news that he had accepted bribes from the Turks and surrendered to them, the fortress of Yanina in 1823. Thus after listening to Monte
Cristo story she implores him to save the life of her son, Albert.

Lines

“AH, MORREL. WHEN A——————- THE HEART FROM HIS BREAST.”

Reference

This speech is made by Monte Cristo to his friend, Morrel.

Explanation

Morrel had come to inform Monte Cristo (at night), that all arrangements had been made about the duel. That it was to take place at 8 O’clock, in the
morning at Bois-de-Vincenes. Prior to uttering the above words, Monte Cristo, signed his will and asked Morrel to be a witness. It is then that Monte
Cristo utters, the above words. He says to Morrel, when a man decides to take his revenge, he should first of all remove his heart from his chest.
Monte Cristo is referring to the Countess whom he still admires and due to whose entreaties, he agrees to spare his (Albert’s) life.

Lines

“NONETHELESS, I THINK THAT——————- WISH IT WERE NOT.”

Reference

These words are spoken by the Countess of Morcerf, to her husband the Count of Morcerf.

Explanation

They are discussing their son, Albert who had gone to fight a duel against Monte Cristo for disgracing his father Count of Morcerf. The duel was to
have taken place at 8 O’clock. It is past 9 O’clock, so both are concerned about Albert. Morcerf expresses his fear that Monte Cristo is an excellent
shot and it is he who will fire first. Despite his apprehensions the Countess says, that it will be Albert, who will be victorious in the duel. She knows that
he will because she had requested Monte Cristo not to kill her son. And Monte Cristo had promised not to kill Albert. But the countess says, in some
ways, she wished her son was not victorious because his life would be saved but it would be Monte Cristo who will give his life.

Lines
“DOUBTLESS, THEN, YOU MADE—————— GAVE SOME EXPLANATIONS.”

Reference

These are Morcerf’s words, which he addresses to his son, Albert.

Explanation

He says these words because Albert informs his father that the duel never took place. That he apologized to Monte Cristo. This he did because the
Countess unveiled the events of 20 years ago and told the whole story of Morcerf’s crime to her son, Albert. She had requested Monte Cristo, to spare
the life of her son, Albert. Thus it is due to the efforts of the countess, that Albert’s life is saved. On this, the count of Morcerf says the above words. He
says, without doubt, you must have apologized to Monte Cristo or given some explanation that is why you are save.

Lines

“YOU HAVE CAME BACK —————- THE TOMB YOU SHALL RETURN.”

Reference

These words are spoken by the count of Morcerf, to Monte Cristo.

Explanation

He is in great anger. He is astonished to find that (Monte Cristo) Edmond Dantes, as he was known formerly (20 years ago) has re-appeared before
him. Count of Morcerf, through a conspiracy, condemned his friend, Edmond Dantes to 20 years of imprisonment in an underground dungeon. But after
14 years, Edmond Dantes escaped and came to Paris. Here he took the title of the count of Monte Cristo. In order to take his revenge he published the
news of Morcerf’s crimes. That he had taken bribes from the Turks and surrendered the fortress of Yanina, in 1823. Albert had challenged Monte Cristo
for disgracing his father. But because of the countess, both Albert and Monte Cristo, don’t fight. The Countess took her son into confidence and told
him all about his father’s misdeeds. Likewise she apologized to Monte Cristo and begged of him to spare her son’s life. Monte Cristo could not turn
down the request of his former beloved. Thus the duel is averted. Now Monte Cristo and Count of Morcerf, come face to face. It is then, that Morcerf
utters the above remarks. He says, to Monte Cristo, that you have come back from you grave (underground dungeon), and to the grave you shall
return. Saying these words he pulls out a pistol and points it towards Monte Cristo meaning to shoot him.

Character Sketch from Play

Mrs. Meldon
Introduction

Mrs. Meldon is a character from a play named Progress written by St. G. Ervine. The play was sent in 1919, just one year after the first World War.
Mrs. Meldon was aged about forty-three. She is a sensitive looking widow. She was suffering deeply from her memories. She is not a fretful,
complaining women who had suffered bereavement and when in the course of play, she speaks of her loss, she does so with grace and beautiful
dignity. Her son was killed in the First World War and her husband died away out of heart failure. So she was the victim of adverse circumstances. She
has a strong sense of tolerance.

Beginning of Her Role

Mrs. Meldon’s role started from the second scene when she returns from a long journey and her brother, Professor Henry Corrie, does not receive her
at the station. It was the death anniversary of her only son, Eddie. Beginning of Her Role
Mrs. Meldon’s role started from the second scene when she returns from a long journey and her brother, Professor Henry Corrie, does not receive her
at the station. It was the death anniversary of her only son, Eddie.

Qualities and Character

The qualities and the character of Mrs. Meldon as presented in play are:
A Dignitful Lady

Mrs. Meldon has a character full of dignity and grace. She is a lady who has faced the emotional sufferings of life. A woman having a compassionate,
patient, gentle, sensitive and graceful appearance is what Mrs. Meldon looks like. She is dressed in black clothes, partly because she is a widow and
mainly because it was the third death anniversary of her son. He dignity becomes apparent when she opines about war.

A Bereaved Widow and Mother

Eddie was her only son, killed in First World War. She had brought up her son with a great care and love. She wanted him to be great in future. Her
son enlisted himself in war. She could not decide to be happy or sorry but chiefly she was happy. The sight of the messenger made her heart sink and
she remained worry about her son. He came on his first and second leaves all safe but he did not come for third visit. He was killed in a moment by the
men, who had never seen him. This was the most shocking news. Her husband could not bear it and died away out of heart failure. She remained all-
alone in this miserable world.
“I some times wonder why I was not granted the mer of death. Why I should be compelled to live alone.”
The words of the play reflects her loneliness:
“ I had a husband and a son, when the war began, I had neither when it was over. I am the most lonely woman – cruelly alone.”

Her Hatred for War

She hated wars. She considered them as an organized butchery of the young ones. She though wars to be the most terrible thing, which was
responsible for the destruction of human peace. She wanted ban on wars. She wanted the scientists to stop making dangerous weapons. This was the
war, which made her widow and which snatches away her beautiful young son. She said:
“Yes, people with broad views, because you are fools. Some one like me, not clever, create beautiful things like my son, and you, will all your
cleverness can only destroy it.”

A Brave Woman

Mrs. Meldon was a brave woman. In spite of losing all what she had, she bore the tragedy patiently. She always suffered from old memories, but never
showed her bereavement. She behaved as a calm and uncomplaining person.

A Friend of Humanity

On knowing that her brother has invented a dreadful bomb, she becomes deeply grief. She opposed her brother and called him The Most Stupid Man
on Earth. She cared for all the mothers as she had seen the fury of life. She wanted that other boys like Eddie must not fell prey to horrors of
devastating wars. Mrs. Meldon, as a symbol of peace for all, did not rejoice at the wicked achievement of her brother. She perfectly reflected her
friendship towards humanity.
“Love and Peace can make the world a Heaven.”

War Antagonist

Mrs. Meldon was a true well wisher of human beings. She was totally against war because she thought that war was an organized butchery of young
people. She said that:

“War is an organized butchery of Boys.”

The lady wanted complete abolition of war. She dreamed that peace, love, care and harmony should prevail in the world and the earth should depict
the shades of Heaven.

A Passionate Woman

Mrs. Meldon was an enthusiastic person. She becomes extremely emotional when her brother denies destroying his invention. When Professor tell his
motives to her, her limit of patience and endurance gets crossed.
“It will bring me fame and fortune. I shall be rich now, but more than that I shall be famous.”
She grew extremely emotional and impulsive and in the interest of humanity. She takes the matter into her own hands. To save the human race from
the deadly invention, she picks a knife and stabbed her cruel brother to death.
“To kill someone is also humanity, but only for the sake of a nation.”

Comments on Mrs. Meldon’s Act

Legally, Mrs. Meldon committed a crime by killing Professor Corrie. She did not have the right to commit such an act of madness. But on the other
hand, her act seems to be justified for the sake of humanity. Sometimes a drastic and violent action becomes essential to crush wicked elements. In
dismay, she said:
“Eddie, dear! I had to Eddie!
She exalts herself in our eyes and we begin to adore her as a protector of humanity.

Conclusion

She was really shocked to know that her brother has invented a bomb, which will destroy the whole nation within twinkling of any eye. She requested
him that for the sake of young sons and for the sake of peace, he must destroy his invention. Her brother did not realize the intensity of her emotions
and refused to destroy it for the sake of mere sentiments. So she killed him. In the end she saw the wreath of son ruined and out of sudden passion,
she killed him and wins the sympathies of the readers.

Prof. Henry Corrie

Introduction

The author titles the play, The Progress ironically. He laughs at the attitude of war-mongers and the scientists who believe that they are contributing to
the progress of science by inventing deadly weapons.
In Professor Corrie, the playwright has created a self-centered scientist aged between fifty and sixty who is a confirmed bachelor. His sole interest in
life is his scientific experiments. He captivates our attention from the beginning till the end of the play. His wolfish snarls and physical features, speak a
lot about his inhuman behaviour.

A Wicked Person

He felt pleasure in destruction. He wanted to make the wars horrible. He invented a dangerous bomb full of corrosive gas, which could obliterate whole
cities within no time. He wished to make the war so horrible that no nation will engage in one unless absolutely driven to it. He said:
“With a single bomb, we could wipe out the population of a city as a big as Manchestar.”

As A Reputed Scientist

There is no doubt that Professor Corrie is a great scientist, who is extremely dedicated and devoted in his scientific experiments. When the curtain
goes up, we find Professor Corrie engrossed in his experiment. His experiment is a success and he has succeeded in inventing a lethal and
devastating bomb, which is so powerful that according to him:
“I’ve discovered a combination of explosives and gases that will obliterate thousands at once! Thousands.”
The above quoted words show the deep faith Corrie has in the destructive quality of the bomb and his cruel nature and inhuman behaviour.

As A Self-Willed Person

Professor Corrie is an extremely selfish and self-willed person. He is out and out a materialist. He has discovered the formula of the bomb to earn fame
and fortune. He is delighted at the thought that his invention would make him famous and well-known all over the world. He did not care about the
feeling of his sister wanted her rejoices his invention. He wished her to forget her tragedy and suggested taking a broad point of view. She must
imagine herself a statesman. He said:
“Oh, a mother’s feelings, of course, but look at the matter from a broad point of view. Put you own feelings aside.”

As An Unpatriotic Person

Professor Corrie is crazy and unpatriotic. He wants to sell the formula of the bomb, to any government, which would pay him the highest price. As he
says:
“I shall offer it first to the British Government, of course, but if they won’t pay my price, I shall offer it to somebody else.”
The above lines speak of his unpatriotism and greed for money.

As A Cruel And Heartless Person

Professor Corrie possesses a very cruel disposition. His eyes reflect the coldness and seriousness of his character. He is a devil in human form. To
him human beings are of no consequence. Even his sister, Mrs. Meldon’s grief has no effect on him. Although he is aware that his sister is emotionally
shattered by the death of her son, Eddie, yet he does not comfort or console her, at her tragic loss.

As An Enemy of Women

Professor Corrie is cynical about women and has a poor opinion of them. He thinks that women lack in concentration and have a fussy and talkative
nature. That is why they are not very often crowned with success. According to him:
“Your sex is most extraordinary, Charlotte. Always willing to break off things, for other things. No application, no concentration, no capability for
complete impersonal devotion.”

Corrie’s Desire For Immortality

Corrie was mad for immortality. That is why he invented the bomb. He hopes:
“This will bring fame and fortune to me. I shall be rich and now but more than that I shall be famous. My name will live forever.”

Corrie’s Tragic End

Mrs. Meldon is absolutely horrified, when she learns of his terrible invention. She repeatedly requested him to destroy the formula of the bomb. She
says:
“Henry, I beg you to destroy your invention.”
Professor Corrie pays no attention to her, so Mrs. Meldon, in a state of frenzy, drove a sharp knife in his back. Corrie falls on his face, dead cold. Thus
the curtain draws on the play, with his tragic end.

Character Sketch from Play – The Count’s Revenge

Monte Cristo
Introduction

The Count of Monte Cristo is the hero of the play, The Count’s Revenge. He is the charming, swashbuckling and ever
obliging nobleman, splendidly dressed. The handsome hero, gay, cynical, not very young, with the touch of the devil about
him.

As A Young Sailor

As a young man, Monte Cristo was known as Edmond Dantes, a mere sailor of Marseilles, a port in South of France. He
loved a beautiful Catalan girl, Mercedes, to whom he was engaged. He was to marry her, on his return from a voyage, which
he was to undertake in due course of time.

A Victim Of Conspiracy

But the marriage never took place, as a young fisherman, Fernand Mondego, a friend of Edmond and a snake under grass
has other plans. Fernand Mondego secretely loved Mercedes and wished to marry her. So the crafty Fernand, hatched the
most devilish of plots against his own friend (Edmond) whereby he got him condemned as a spy of exiled Buonopart, by
giving false evidence in the court.

Convicted As A Spy

Poor Edmond, a victim of hatred and jealousy, is convicted as a spy and condemned to life imprisonment in an underground
dungeon. The evil Fernand then, convinced Mercedes, through false news in the press that Edmond Dantes had died in
prison. Then he gradually gained her confidence by sympathizing with her. In this way, Fernand succeeded in marrying
Mercedes.

Escapes From Prison

The unfortunate Edmond Dantes, remained in Prison for 14 long years. He is an innocent victim of blind justice. Then luck
favoured him. Six years before the events of our play, Edmond contrived to escape from prison. After escaping from prison,
he re-establishes himself in life with wonderful speed and success. In six years, he acquires wealth, a little and a dazzling
place in the French Society and settles down in Paris.

As Count Of Monte Cristo

As Count of Monte Cristo, he is greatly respected and admired. But his main aim in life is to take revenge from Fernand
Mondego, his deadly enemy, now living in Paris as the Count of Morcerf. Monte Cristo discovers after searching
investigations, that his old enemy the Count of Morcerf committed yet another gross act of villainy during his service in the
French Army. That he accepted bribes from the Turks, with whom France was at war and surrendered the Fortress of
Yanina to them, in 1823.

Count’s Revenge

By keeping in the background, Monte Cristo condemns Count of Morcerf as a traitor to his country. He thus succeeds in
taking sweet revenge from his archenemy. He first publishes articles in the newspapers and later in the Chamber of
Deputies, he backs his charges by giving convincing proofs. It is at this point, in the play, that Morcerf is, at least exposed as
the Villain that he is.

Monte Cristo’s Challenge

Albert, the son of the Count of Morcerf is much offended on learning that his own friend is the cause of his family disgrace
and disrepute. In a fit of rage, he challenges Monte Cristo to a duel, which was to be fought at Bois-de-Vincennes at 8 a.m.

Duel Averted

Owing to the intervention of the Countess, his beloved of yester-years, Monte Cristo consents to spare her son’s life. Monte
Cristo gives his word that Albert would come to no harm and that he would die, in his place. However, it is the villain who
dies and Monte Cristo is thus avenged.

Conclusion

There is no denying that Monte Cristo is the pivot around whom the whole play revolves. He is indeed a man of integrity and
honour. He has a charming personality. He is kind and noble who is rewarded in the end for his virtuosity.

The Count of Morcerf

Introduction

The Count of Morcerf is presented as the villain of the play, The Count’s Revenge. Prior to becoming a Count, he was a
fisherman. He was then known as Fernand Mondego. At that point of time, he lived in Marseilles. He had a friend, Edmond
Dantes, who was a sailor. Fernand was quite friendly with him. Edmond was engaged to a beautiful Catalan girl, Mercedes.
This fact was known to Fernand. But being an evil natured man, he secretly yearned to marry Mercedes. Therefore, to make
his dream come true, he hatched a plot – the most diabolic, which any man could have hatched, against any man.

A Rogue And A Rascal

He is out and out a rogue and a rascal. In order to win the hand of Mercedes, he framed a false charge against his friend,
Edmond in the court. He proved that Edmond was the spy of the exiled Napoleon Bonapart. He provided false evidences
against Edmond and thus got him imprisoned for 20 years. In this way, he very cleverly removed the innocent Edmond, out
of the way.

A Mean And Degraded Man

Once Edmond Dantes had been taken care of Fernand had little difficulty in trapping Mercedes into his trap. He first
convinced Mercedes, of the death of Edmond by publishing the false news of his death in the newspapers. Then appearing
as a friend and a sympathizer her first consoled her. And after wining her confidence, he then proposed to marry her. Being
heart-broke and lonely, she accepted his offer. Thus, the evil monster, succeeded in his devilish plan.

A Traitor To His Country

Having accomplished all his plans successfully, he decided to settle down in Paris. So, he said good bye to Marseilles.
While in Paris, he joined the Army, and after sometime, became a captain in 1822. The French were at war against the
Turks. Fernand as Captain was defending the Fortress of Yanina. Being a coward and a mean person, he surrendered the
fortress to the Turks on receiving a huge bribe. He however made it appear as though he got defeated. Having acquired
tons of wealth, Fernand took his discharge from the Army. He then took the title of the Count and settled in Paris.

As A Liar And A Wicked Person

Having amassed a huge fortune, the count started living like a lord when he is proved as a traitor in the chamber of
Deputies, he still kept denying his charges. Even in the face of sound evidence, he kept denying his guilt. He is a liar and a
rogue.

A Violent Death

After he is proved a traitor, he is still not remorseful. When he is face to face with Edmond, he pulls out his pistol to shoot
him. But Albert, Beauchamp pounce on him, to snatch the pistol from him. In the struggle the pistol goes off and the Count of
Morcerf, shoots himself. Thus Monte Cristo is avenged.

The Countess of Morcerf

Introduction

The Countess of Morcerf is a beautiful lady, with a bewitching personality. She is lie a breath of fresh air, in the play The
Count’s Revenge. Twenty years ago, she lived in Marseilles and was bethroted to Edmond Dantes. She was then known as
Mercedes, an extremely charming lady. She is adored and admired by all. She enchanted every one, who came into contact
with her. So ravishingly beautiful was she.

A Victim Of A Conspiracy

It is her beauty, which resulted in her undoing, so to speak. While it was known to all and sundry, that she was to be married
to Edmond Dantes A fisherman, named Fernand Mondego, also desired to marry her. Fernand Mondego, though a friend of
Edmond Dantes, hatched a most diabolic plot, whereby he got Edmond condemned as a traitor and a spy to the exiled
Buonaparte. Thus he eliminated Edmond from the scene and tricked Mercedes into marrying her.

Tricked Into Marrying Fernand Mondego

The cunning Fernand Mondego convinced Mercedes by giving her false evidence that Edmond Dantes had died in Prison.
Then he gradually gains her confidence by sympathy with her. In this way, Fernand Mondego succeeds in marrying he.
Although fate ill treats Mercedes, it goes to her credit that she remains loyal wife to her villainous husband, Fernand
Mondego.

As A Loving Mother

She dearly loved her son, Albert. When she learns that Albert has challenged Monte Cristo, to a duel, she is deeply
concerned, for the safety of her son. She does what any mother would have done, under the circumstances. She visits
Monte Cristo, under the cover of darkness and begs of him, to spare the life of her only son. Monte Cristo yields to her
request and promises not to kill Albert.

Mercedes Confides To Her Son

Then Mercedes, now known as the Countess of Morcerf, confides into her son, Albert and tells him how she had begged of
Monte Cristo, to spare his life. She then requests him not to fight the duel. She then discloses to Albert the villainy of his
father, the Count of Morcerf. How he got Monte Cristo labelled as a spy and got him imprisoned for twenty years, although
he was absolutely innocent. How Morcerf cheated her into marrying him and how he ill treated and tortured her.

Duel Averted

Albert after learning about the misdeed of his father resolves not to fight the duel. Not only this he apologizes to Monte
Cristo and becomes his friend. Thus, the Countess plays a very important role in averting the duel and saving Albert’s life.

A Woman of Great Qualities

The Countess is a woman of great qualities. She is kind and affectionate. She is devoted mother and loves her son dearly.
As a wife too, she is faithful to the evil Morcerf, till she learns from Monte Cristo that she got cheated by Morcerf, into
marrying him. The only blot on her otherwise chaste and pure character, is her desertion of her husband, towards the end of
the play.
Albert
Introduction

Albert is a young French nobleman. He is the son of the Count and the Countess of Morcerf. A man of great character, to
whom honour and self-respect are of great value. He possesses a very pleasing personality and is very enthusiastic about
life.

Simple And Noble

Albert is very simple by nature. He is unable to discern Monte Cristo’s intentions in becoming so thick with him. He has all
the noble qualities, which a nobleman values. To him, his honour and his family’s good name are more dear to him, than life
itself.

Sentimental Young Man

Albert is a very sentimental young man. When the Chamber of Deputies condemns his father, the Count of Morcerf as a
traitor, he is very upset. He narrates to his mother, the Countess, the circumstances in which his father is disgraced. He felt
so ashamed that he wanted to give up his name and to leave the country. He is so upset that he makes up his mind to take
revenge of his father’s enemy.

A Man Of Honour

Albert is a man of honour. When he discovers that his own dear friend, Monte Cristo, is his father’s enemy, he challenges
him, to a duel, for the sake of his family honour.

Wise And Bold

Although Albert is a very emotional young man yet he is wise and sensible t heed his mother’s counsel, to desist from
fighting the duel. When his own mother convinces him of his father’s guilt he not only decides not to fight the duel, but also
apologizes to him, for challenging him to a duel. He is bold and does not feel ashamed, in asking Monte Cristo’s forgiveness.
He is brave and forth right and tells his father, about his guilt and that he should face his enemy.

A Dutiful Son

Albert is a dutiful and an affectionate son. He loves his mother and is very respectful to her. But his only blemish is that, he
shows disrespect to his father, when he learns that his father is the villain of the piece. He refuses to embrace his father and
accept his blessings. This is in very bad taste. As a sensible and dutiful son, he should have stood by his father. Apart from
this, Albert impresses the readers with his strong sense of justice and honour and love for his country.

Beauchamp
Introduction

Beauchamp is a very good friend of Albert’s. It is he who discovers the man, who brought disgraces on Albert’s father, the
Count of Morcerf. He being an editor of a daily newspaper in Paris, is able to discover Albert’s father’s enemy. In fact the
news of Morcerf’s disgrace is published in his newspaper.

As A Sincere Man

Beauchamp’s greatest quality is his sincerity to his friend. Albert greatly depended on him. That is why, he asks Beauchamp
to discover the anonymous writer’s name. We learn later in the play that Beauchamp succeeds in discovering the name of
the man who brings disgrace to Morcerf.

A Sensible Man

He is a very sensible man. Finding his friend, Albert, very disturbed on account of his father’s disgrace he does not disclose
his father’s enemy’s name (Monte Cristo), at once. He mentally prepares Albert by telling him that the name would surprise
him, that he would not believe that it could be his friend, Count of Monte Cristo.

A Cool Headed Man

Beauchamp is a cool headed man. He does not flare up or lose his head like Albert who loses his cool, when he learns that,
it is his own dear friend, Monte Cristo, who is the cause of his family’s disgrace and dishonour. So in a fit of rage, he
challenges him to fight a duel. He thought that this was the only way, he could wash away the blot on his honour.
As A Second Albert

Albert points Beauchamp as his second, in the duel to be fought. Albert has so much faith and reliance on him, that he made
Beauchamp to make all the necessary arrangements for the duel. Tries To Dissuade Albert Beauchamp tries to dissuade
Albert from fighting the duel. In his surprise, he says:
“MY DEAR ALBERT, YOU DO NOT MEAN TO CARRY MATTERS SO FAR.”
He stands by Albert, to the very last When the duel is averted, it is he, who breaks the news of his safety, to the Countess
and Count of Morcerf. He is a real devoted friend – one on whom a fried could relay and depend.

Reference to the Context from Prose

Pakistan Zindabad
Reference

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the lesson, Pakistan Zindabad that has been taken from Quaid-e-Azam,
by John Walton.

Introduction

This essay sheds light upon the struggle of the Muslims of South Asia to achieve a land of their own. It traces the history of
the efforts made by the Muslims during the period ranging from the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution in March 1940 till the
final freedom and setting up of a sovereign homeland in August 1947. The first section of the essay describes the arrival of
Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah at Karachi on 7th August 1947. When he was accorded a warm enthusiastic welcome
by the people and when he outlined the basic beliefs and principles of the people of Pakistan, laying stress upon the equality
of all Pakistanis irrespective of religion, casts, colour or creed. Then the essay points out to the main differences between
the Congress and the Muslim League, between the view points of Gandhi and Jinnah, and their ultimate outcome in the
shape of the two-nation theory becoming a reality. The concluding part of the essay deals with the problems facing the new
nation of Pakistan in its initial years which incidentally proved to be the final year in the life of the father of nation.

Lines

“THROUGH ALL THE EXCITEMENT OF THOSE FIRST ——————– REMAINED CALM, SERIOUS AND EVEN
SEVERE.”

Explanation
In the passage, the author is describing his views, on the excitement generated among the people of Pakistan on the first
few days of their independence. Earlier the Quaid-e-Azam has landed at the Mauripur Airport on August 7, 1947. He was
given a rousing welcome by the people of Karachi. The people in their millions, welcomed their Quaid, the first Governor
General of Pakistan. While the people were cheering with excitement and joy, though Quaid remained calm and serious. He
gave no sign of his feelings, though, he too must have been delighted, at the tremendous joy, which the crowd was
expressing on his arrival. Those were the first few days in the life of the young nation and the people were naturally, over-
joyed. But their Quaid, who made independence possible, looked very calm, serious and even stern from appearance. He
never revealed his feelings. He always kept his feelings to himself.

Lines

“ALL THIS KILLING AND DESTRUCTION——————— IS A FRIEND OF TOMORROW.”

Explanation
In the above passage the author is shedding light on the shock and sense of horror of the Quaid at the brutal killing of the
Muslims, when they were trying to cross over to their country, Pakistan from India. The author is highlighting Jinnah’s shock
and grief at the senseless killings and destruction of the Muslims, when they were coming over to their homeland. Jinnah
was a man of peace. He hated violence and cruelty at all times. He was overcome with grief at the helplessness of the
people, who were massacred by the Indians. With all this killing and violence, Jinnah still begged for peace and friendship
with the Indians. Being neighbours, the Quaid extended a hand of friendship, in the hope of lasting peace and prosperity.
That is why the Quaid hoped, that an enemy of today would become a friend tomorrow. But alas! This was not to be.

Lines

“BY THE FORCE OF HIS DETERMINATION ———————– NATION IN THE WORLD.”

Explanation
In the above passage the author is highlighting the leadership qualities of the Quaid-e-Azam. There are no two opinions
about the Quaid’s leadership as well as his iron determination. By the force of the Quaid’s leadership as well as his
determination, he formed the Muslims of India into a nation, who were once a small defeated entity, with nothing to hope for
into a great force. The Quaid united the Muslims into one forceful unit, in an empire, which was ruled by the British. When
the Muslims emerged as an independent nation, they became the greatest of Muslim states and the fifth largest nation in the
world. This is a great tribute to the Quaid’s leadership, that he and the Muslims of India stuck to their guns and carried the
day. But for the Quaid’s leadership and iron will, this may not have been possible.

Birkenhead Drill
Reference

The lines given for explanation has been taken from Asok Readers, Book III. The lines given for explanation are an extract
from the lesson, Pakistan Zindabad that has been taken from Quaid-e-Azam, by John Walton.

Introduction

Birkenhead Drill is a story of extravagant deed of heroism and shvarism shown by the soldiers of British Army. The
Birkenhead Drill was a troop ship, which come across with sudden accident which has brought a dramatic change in the life
of soldiers. Birkenhead Drill means Women and Children first is the order followed on all ships that are in danger.
Birkenhead Drill means today to stand be still facing certain death so that the weaker ones may have a chance of life.

“SOME PEOPLE BORN GREAT

SOME PEOPLE HAVE GREATNESS
SOME PEOPLE ACHIEVE GREATNESS
WE SHOULD MAKE OUR LIFES SUBLIME”
Lines

“IT LAY HIDDEN UNDER THE——————- ALL UNCONSCIOUS OF ITS FATE.”

Explanation
A troop ship Birkenhead, was heading towards Capetown in South Africa. It was carrying 630 British soldiers and their
families. The Birkenhead was almost at the end of its uneventful journey. But alas! It was destined to be destroyed in the
near future. Forty miles before Capetown, was a rock, which was hidden under the surface of the sea. This rock was
unknown in 1851. Hence it was not shown in any of the maps of the sea. The Birkenhead was heading straight for it, all
‘unconscious of its fate’. It was about 2 a.m. in the early hours of morning, when this terrible accident took place. The author
has used a lovely simile, in comparing the hidden rock, to a wild animal of the sea, who is lying in wait, for its victim. The
unfortunate victim (Birkenhead), being blissfully unaware of its fate, that it was destined to be doomed, soon. Whatever the
staff on board the Birkenhead might be thinking at that moment, no one had the idea that very soon they were going to meet
their end. That the Birkenhead would collide against the hidden rock and that, most of them would die.

Lines

“ANY PASSENGER WHO COULD NOT ——————— ONCE WHO MIGHT FALL INTO THE WAVES.”
Explanation
In the above extract, the author states that after the Birkenhead had been destroyed, by crushing against the hidden rock
most of the life boats were either destroyed completely or badly damaged. Only three lifeboats were in a useful condition.
Each life boat could carry about 60 passengers, which meant the lives of only 180 passengers could be saved. In the given
passage the author states that, one who could not get a place in one of the life boats fared certain death – death by
drowning or worse. The sea was alive with sharks. Their cruel and fearful jaws awaited the unfortunate ones, who might fall
into the sea. There was no hope of any ones survived, who might fell into the sea waves.

Lines

“BIRKENHEAD DRILL – WOMEN AND CHILDREN————— WEAKER ONES MAY HAVE A CHANCE OF LIFE.”
Explanation
‘Birkenhead Drill’ is an order, which was given by the commander of the troops. It was given in the face of utter crises. The
lives of over 600 passengers were at stake on he line. It was a crisis of the highest magnitude. The commander wanted to
save the lives of 170 women and children. So he ordered his men, to stand in proper drill formation, and form queues. The
soldiers obeyed the call of their commander and sacrificed their lives for a noble cause – the 170 precious lives of women
and children. It has now become customary for the captain of the ship to say ‘Birkenhead Drill’ whenever a ship is in danger.
This is the signal for the crew of the ship to stand at attention and save the lives of the weaker ones – the women, children
and the sick.

Summary from Prose

Birkenhead Drill
Introduction
Birkenhead Drill is a story of extravagant deed of heroism and shvarism shown by the soldiers of British 963Army. The
Birkenhead Drill was a troop ship, which come across with sudden accident which has brought a dramatic change in the life
of soldiers.
Birkenhead Drill means Women and Children First is the order followed on all ships that are in danger. Birkenhead Drill
means today to stand be still facing certain death so that the weaker ones may have a chance of life.

“Some people born great

Some people have greatness
Some people achieve greatness
We should make our lifes sublime”
Summary

Birkenhead Drill was a military ship. In February 1851, it was going to South Africa with troops and their families. There were
a total of six hundred and thirty people on board out of which one hundred and seventy were women and children. The rest
were inexperienced military men and officers. At 2 a.m. on 25th February, when this ship was near Cape Town, it strokes a
massive rock that was not shown on any of the maps. This sudden jerk broke the ship into two pieces. The front half soon
sank but the hind half stayed afloat. Most of the people manage to reach the rear part. There were only 3 lifeboats left
undamaged with a capacity of 60 persons per boat. Only 180 people could be saved in this way. The others would draw
because the damaged military ship could not float much longer. This situation should have caused a panic on the ship.
Unlike other happenings, there was no panic or confusion in the boat. The trained soldiers managed complete discipline and
were successful in transferring some women and children into the lifeboats. The captain and soldiers stood line by line as if
they were on their daily drill. Every one was loyal to his duty and himself. A commander set an example by giving his life for
two young soldiers. When the commander was hanging on to some piece of wood, he saw two young soldiers struggling in
the water. He allowed them to hold on wreckage. But the commander realized that the wreckage could not bear the weight
of the three persons so he let go his hold and went into the water for ever. Due to complete management of discipline, 194
people were saved but 436 men drowned forever in the deep waters. Moral The undiminished order of the soldiers
presented in the article reflects the quality of sacrifice and devotion in mankind. We should stand till facing certain fate so
that the weak ones may have a chance to live. This has been known as Birkenhead Drill since then.

“DUTY, THAT WHICH STERNLY IMPELS US IN THE DIRECTION OF PROFIT, ALONG THE LINE OF DESIRE.”
____________________________________________________________ Ambrose Bierce

The Hostile Witness

Introduction

The Hostile Witness is a detective story by D.Y. Morgan. In this story he depicts the character of a person who was not
satisfied with the performance of the state Police, but he changed his views when witnesses the performance of the police in
arresting a dangerous murderer at large.

Summary

Norman Charlton is a robber and a murderer. He lives as a servant in White Hart Hotel. This hotel is in Kirby, a small
Yorkshire town about 32 kilometers south of Darlington. He robbed the weekly wages of two people at New Castle, who
were going to their factory carrying thousands of pounds. While committing the robbery, he faces protest from the two
persons. In reply he shoots them. One of them, named John Edward Robson, gets killed while the other becomes seriously
wounded. Charlton escapes in a stolen sports car from the place of robbery. After reaching a safe place, he leaves the car
and asks for a lift at about a hundred yards from that point. Fortunately, he gets a lift from Mr. Earnest King who was on his
way to White Hart Hotel. When they reach the hotel, Charlton transfers the stolen bag from Mr. King’s car into the hotel and
places it behind the reception desk. He also puts King’s luggage in a room and gets dressed in his white jacket. He leaves
the weapon of murder under the mattress. Mr. King sits in the lounge and orders for cold drink. While enjoying cold drink,
Mr. Abott and two other guests, Mr. Cartor and Johnson enter the room. They exchange greetings and then Mr. King gets
informed about the robbery and the murder. Mr. Cartor also tells about the checking of his car by the police. While they were
talking about the robbery, three persons, Detective-Sergeant Manning and Police Constable Stevens and Edwards, enter
the hotel. They told the people about the security and said that their duty was to check all the hotels in the North of England.
Detective-Sergeant Manning asks for the keys of the rooms so that he could check the luggage of the guests. Everyone
gives them the keys except Mr. King, who thinks that this action was unrespectable. But after some discussion he also gives
the keys. the detective then go up to check the rooms. When they return, one of them holds a pistol in his hand, which had
been fired recently. He tells that this pistol was laid under the mattress in Mr. King’s room. He suspects Mr. King for the
murder. Charlton takes advantages of this situation and gives the description of the murderer – medium height and build,
fresh complexion, dark hair, moustache, horn-rimmed glasses, Grey suit and Grey hat. This description exactly suited the
dressing of Mr. King, which made him more mistrustful and every body stares at him. Charlton also gives the bag of money
having massive locks from behind the reception desk and says that this bag was carried by Mr. King. Suddenly, Manning
turns at Charlton and orders the constable to arrest him. He suspected him of the spirit gum and fake moustaches that were
left on his upper lip. The lift which he had taken from Mr. King made him more suspicious. He also asks him of horn-rimmed
glasses and receives the answer in positive. Manning then arrests him and tells the people how Charlton had committed the
crime. He hid the pistol under the mattress in Mr. King’s room while he as keeping the luggage and threw away his fake
moustache soon after killing the person. He had then taken lift from Mr. King at a bus stop near Great North Road and
gotten away safely from the police. This entire work carried out by the police really impressed Mr. King and the killer was
caught.

My Bank Account
Introduction

My Bank Account is written by Stephen Leacock. He is one of the most popular mockers and article writer. His witty articles
are the best example of sardonic Mockery. The most of his stories like Brown Eyes, Freedom Cost, Behind the Table are
written in first person style.

“CONFIDENCE WITH FEAR LEAD TO MOCKERY.” ___________________________________ Stephen

Summary

Our author had a particular kind of fear about banks. Every time he entered a bank, to do business, he felt awfully
frightened. The author was afraid of banks but he had to go to a bank, as he received a raise in his salary. As he entered the
bank his fear overlook him. In this panic, the author made number of stupid mistakes. He entered the bank and demanded to
see the manager alone. The author was taken to a private room. The manager was convinced that the author was
millionaire who wished to deposit millions of dollars. But the manager was very upset, when he learn that the author wanted
to deposit, fifty six dollars and that he would deposit fifty dollars every month. Quite obviously the manager was irritated and
directed him to the accountant, so that his account could be opened, which was duly done. After having deposited fifty-six
dollars. The author wanted to withdraw six dollars for his current use. In his nervousness, the author made a blunder.
Instead of writing a cheque for six dollars he had written fifty-six dollars. The accountant looked at him in astonishment and
asked if he wanted to withdraw all his money. The author realized his mistake, but wanted to cover up his stupidness. So he
replied he wanted to draw all his money. Author was feeling miserable and he want to rush out of the bank sooner than he
received his money, he rushed out of the bank as he did so, a loud burst of laughter went up, to the roof of the bank.

The Wolves of Cernogratz

Introduction

This is an interesting story about supernatural forces and strange happenings written by Saki H.H. Munro. The author is well
known for his tales of mystery and magical powers. The story is about an old castle and its owners, the Cernogratz family
who had to sell off their family castle, when their fortune turned against them. Thus, they abondoned their ancestral family
castle. As time went by, the castle was purchased by Gruebel family.

Summary

One of the last days of December, the Baroness, the new owner of the Cernogratz Castle, was engaged in a friendly
conversation with her guests. She was telling them about a strange legend attached to the castle. She said that whenever
someone died in the castle, all the wild beasts and wolves would appear from nowhere and start howling all night long. But
she quickly brushed this legend aside by saying that, it is only a gimmick to enhance the value of castle. She also said that
she did not believe in the legend as she had proof that nothing of the sort ever happened. When her old mother-in-law died
in the castle, nothing of the sort happened and no wolves appeared. According to her it was utter rubbish and that there was
no truth in the legend. That the people had merely invented a story so as to give cheap publicity to the place. On hearing this
account, Amalie von Cernogratz, an old governess employed in the house, remarked:

“THE STORY IS NOT AS YOU HAVE TOLD IT. IT IS NOT WHEN ANY ONE DIES IN THE CASTLE, THAT THE HOWLING
IS HEARD. IT IS ONLY HEARD, WHEN A MEMBER OF THE CERNOGRATZ FAMILY, DIES IN HIS FAMILY CASTLE
THAT THE WOLVES APPEAR IN THEIR THOUSANDS AND START HOWLING.”
The Governess strongly protested and insisted that the legend was quite true. She knew the family legend very well, as she
was the last of the great Cernogratz family. The old Governess repeated the actual legend in a note of defiance, almost in
contempt. She made it quite clear that no howling was heard if a stranger died in the castle. But if a cernogratz died in his
family castle, not only did the wolves would howl in chorus, but also a large tree would crash in the park as the soul of the
dying one left its body. Naturally the company showed its disbelief. They thought that the old lady is pretending to be an
important person. She knows that she will be soon past work and she wants to appeal to our sympathies. That the old
Amalie is making a false claim to be a Cernogratz. When the old Governess left the room, the Baroness and her guests
were convinces that, she is an ordinary woman and had some how learnt the Cernogratz legend from the peasants living in
the vicinity. Later on, some mysterious happenings proved every word of the old governess. It so happened that the old
governess fell ill and confined herself to her small, cheerless room. Just then the company heard the howling of wolves.
Moved by some impulse, the Baroness went to the Governess’s room. To her horror, she found, all the windows open,
despite the biting cold, while the old lady was lying on the couch terribly sick. The Baroness rushed forward to shut the
windows. But the Governess forbade her in a very stern manner. She asked the Baroness to leave and let the windows be
open, as she wanted to hear the “Death Music” of her family. The Baroness announced to her guests that the old governess
was dying. While the guests were talking, they heard a loud noise of a tree splitting and then crashing down, with a loud
thud. At that moment, the governess breathed her last. The news of Amalie-von-Cernogratz’s death and her affiliation to the
Cernogratz family was confirmed in the newspaper, the following day. Amalie, the valued fried of the Baron and Baroness
Gruebel had passed away in her old family castle.

Reference to the Context from Poetry

Under the Green Wood Tree
Reference to the Context

Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem Under the Green Wood Tree which is the title of a song taken
from the play, As You Like It written by William Shakespeare. The play tells the story of two brothers, the Elder Duke and the
younger brother, Duke Frederick. The younger brother is very greedy, selfish and ambitious and wishes to usurp the
dukedom. He forces the Elder Duke to go into exile and pass the rest of his life in the forest of Arden. The Elder Duke is
accompanied by some his devoted companions and followers. Among them is Lord Amiens, who is gifted with a very sweet,
melodious voice. The lines given for explanation are an extract from one of the songs sung by him. In this song, he desribes
the pleasant and carefree life of the forest. He also extends an open invitation to anyone who wishes to join him in that
cheerful surrounding. Such a person should be free from all worldly wishes, and should feel happy and contented to live in
the open, natural environment. The only problem one has to face there is the harsh unbearable winter weather.

Lines

UNDER THE GREEN WOOD TREE

WHO LOVES TO LIE WITH ME,
AND TURN HIS MERRY NOTE
UNTO THE SWEET BIRD’S THROAT,
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER:
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation

In these lines, the singer is giving an open invitation to any one who wishes to join him in the forest of Arden. The singer
desires the newcomer to rest under the shady trees and sing a song in such a manner that his voice mingles with the sweet
notes of the bird to produce one single harmony. The singer reminds that the life of the forest is free from all enmity and
petty rivalries. The only snag in the life of the forest is the unpleasant and unbearable winter wind. If one is brave and willing
enough to endure the harshness of the weather, the life of the forest is almost an ideal one.

Lines

WHO DOTH AMBITION SHUN,

AND LOVES TO LIVE I’ THE SUN,
SEEKING THE FOOD HE EATS,
AND PLEASED WITH WHAT HE GETS-
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER,
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation

In the lines given for contextual explanation, the singer is laying down certain conditions to be fulfilled by one who wishes to
come and pass his life in the forest of Arden. In the first place, such a person should have no worldly wishes. He should not
be materialistic in his approach and should never run after fame, wealth, power and glory. He should be willing to pass his
life in the open atmosphere under the bright sun. He should look for his own sustenance and nourishment and should be
contented with whatever he gets to eat. The singer reiterates that the life of the forest is free from all anxieties, problems and
difficulties except the unpleasantness of the chilly winter weather.

The Character of a Happy Life

Reference to the Context
Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem, The Character of a Happy Life written by Sir Henry Wotton. In
this moralizing piece of writing, the poet points to the sterling qualities of head and heart needed in a person to lead a life of
contentment and bliss. Such a person should enjoy full freedom and should never be dictated by others. He should remain
steadfast and firm on the path of honesty. Truthfulness should be his most prominent trait. He should exercise complete
control over his passion and should never be swept away by his emotions. He should be brave enough to face all the
challenges in life and should have the courage to encounter death any moment. He should believe in simplicity and keep
away from the evils of jealousy and flattery. The accumulation of wealth and the acquisition of worldly name and fame
should never be his goal in life. He should be pious and God-fearing and pass his time in healthy activities. Such a person
may bot be playing in riches but he is gifted with all the noble qualities required by a person to lead a contented life.

Lines

HOW HAPPY IS HE BORN OR TAUGHT

THAT SERVETH NOT ANOTHER’S WILL:
WHOSE ARMOUR IS HIS HONEST THOUGHT
AND SIMPLE TRUTH HIS UTMOST SKILL!
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is referring to three outstanding characteristics of a person willing to pass a happy,
contented life. Such a person should be independent in all his actions. He should never be a slave to the will of others. His
honest and humble thoughts prove to be his best protective device and truthfulness is his most outstanding and remarkable
feature.

Lines

WHOSE PASSIONS NOT HIS MASTERS ARE,

WHOSE SOUL IS STILL PREPARED FOR DEATH,
UNTIED UTO THE WORLD BY CARE
OF PUBLIC FAME, OR PRIVATE BREATH;
Explanation

The lines given for explanation bring out some prominent qualities of a person who wishes to life a cheerful, satisfied life. He
should have full control over his feelings and should never be swayed by his emotions. He should not be afraid of death and
should be bold enough to encounter all the ups and downs in life. He should follow the path of simplicity and sobriety. He
should not care for the individual and collective opinion form about him. He should never run after earthly name and fame.

Lines

WHO ENVIES NONE THAT CHANCE DOTH RAISE,

NOR VICE; WHO NEVER UNDERSTOOD
HOW DEEPEST WOUNDS ARE GIVEN BY PRAISE;
NOR RULES OF STATE, BUT RULES OF GOOD;
Explanation

In these lines, the poet is referring to the qualities needed in a person desirous of leading a simple, innocent life. Such a
person never fall a victim to the green-eyed monster by looking at others who acquire wealth and reputation. He never gets
involved in any kind of evil of sight, speech or hearing. He is not interested in politics and government and is simply aware of
the golden principles of a life without ostentation. He realizes that flattery is harmful for both who is flattered and the one who
is over-praising. Thus he keeps away from false praise at all cost.

Lines

WHO HATH HIS LIFE FROM RUMOURS FREED;

WHOSE CONSCIENCE IS HIS STRONG RETREAT;
WHOSE STATE CAN NEITHER FLATTERERS FEED,
NOR RUIN MAKE OPPRESSORS GREAT;
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet believes that a person who wants to live a simple, contented life keeps his life free
from rumours by never trying to become a public figure. Such a person always depends upon his conscience and acts
according to it. He is not so affluent that people may flatter him and take undue advantage of his wealthy state. Such
flatterers often fill their own coffers but when their benefactors are ruined and deprived of their wealth, they accuse them and
find all kinds of faults in them.

Lines
 WHO GOD DOTH LATE AND EARLY PRAY
MORE OF HIS GRACE THAN GIFTS TO LEND;
AND ENTERTAINS THE HARMLESS DAY
WITH A RELIGIOUS BOOK OR FRIEND
Explanation

The lines given for elucidation points to one of the salient features of the character of a person wishing to live a happy life.
Such a person is religious-minded, morally sound, pious and God-fearing. He prays to Almighty God whenever it is possible.
He asks God for his benevolence and blessings and not for worldly comfort and luxuries. He passes his time in healthy
activities by reading good books or being in the company of good, virtuous friends.

Lines

THIS MAN IS FREED FROM SERVILE BANDS

OF HOPE TO RISE, OR FEAR TO FALL:
LORD OF HIMSELF, THOUGH NOT OF LANDS,
AND HAVING NOTHING, YET HATH ALL.
Explanation

The lines given for explanation present in a nutshell all the advantages of having sterling qualities of head and heart, so
necessary to pass a life of joy and satisfaction. A person who is the master of his won will, follows the path of honesty,
truthfulness, simplicity, piety and self-confidence, and is courageous enough to face all the challenges, can definitely lead a
life of contentment. He is not bound by the chains of slavery, and has neither the hope of achieving loftier goals nor the fear
of suffering a fall. He is not a feudal lord, possessing big estates but is lord of himself, having all the noble qualities. Thus he
is able to pass his life in ease, joy and comfort.

The Deserted Village

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem The Deserted Village written by Oliver Goldsmith. The poem
presents two contrasting pictures of an Irish village which fell a victim to the cruelty and inhuman treatment of the feudal
lords. The simpler, hardworking rustics were forced to leave their native land as a result of the agricultural revolution when
the big land owners switched over from general farming to sheep farming in order to earn greater profits. On the one hand,
this poem shows the joy and activities of the people before the village was deserted, while on the other hand, it presents a
gloomy picture of the same village after the eviction of the rural population.

Lines

SWEET AUBURN! LOVELIEST VILLAGE OF THE PLAIN,

WHERE HEALTH AND PLENTY CHEERED THE LABOURING SWAIN,
WHERE SMILING SPRING ITS EARLIEST VISIT PAID,
AND PARTING SUMMER’S LINGERING BLOOMS DELAYED:
DEAR LOVELY BOWERS OF INNOCENCE AND EASE,
SEATS OF MY YOUTH, WHEN EVERY SPORT COULD PLEASE
HOW OFTEN HAVE I LOITERED O’ER THY GREEN,
WHERE HUMBLE HAPPINESS ENDEAR’D EACH SCENE!
HOW OFTEN HAVE I PAUSED ON EVERY CHARM
THE SHELTERED COT, THE CULTIVATED FARM,
THE NEVER FAILING BROOK, THE BUSY MILL,
THE DECENT CHURCH THAT TROPPED THE NEIGHBOURING
THE HAWTHORN BUSH, WITH SEATS BENEATH THE SHADE,
FOR TALKING AGE AND WHISPERING LOVERS MADE !
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet points out that Auburn was the most Beautiful village of the area. The rustics
enjoyed good health and found all the necessities of life in abundance. They worked hard and remained happy. The first
signs of the spring were visible and summer lasted the longest. The poet had passed his childhood and early youth in this
village. He had participated in different kinds of activities. He had observed all the beautiful sights of Nature. He had seen
the beautiful cottages and the picturesque natural surrounding. He had also admired the flowing stream, the working mill and
the ploughed fields. The seats under the trees were occupied either by the old, fond of talking all the time or the young
lovers whispering to each other.

Lines
 HOW OFTEN HAVE I BLEST THE COMING DAY,
WHEN TOIL REMITTING LENT ITS TURN TO PLAY,
AND ALL THE VILLAGE TRAIN, FROM LABOUR FREE,
LED UP THEIR SPORTS BENEATH THE SPREADING TREE;
WILL MANY A PASTIME CIRCLED IN THE SHADE,
THE YOUNG CONTENDING AS THE OLD SURVEYED;
AND MANY A GAMBOL FROLICKED O’ER THE GROUND,
AND SLEIGHTS OF ART AND FEATS OF STRENGTH WENT ROUND;
AND STILL AS EACH REPEATED PLEASURE TIRED,
SUCCEEDDING SPORTS THE MIRTHFUL BAND INSPIRED;
THE DANCING PAIR THAT SIMPLY SOUGHT RENOWN
BY HOLDING OUT TO TIRE EACH OTHER DOWN;
THE SWAIN MISTRUSTLESS OF HIS SMUTTED FACE,
WHILE SECRET LAUGHTER TITTERED ROUND THE PLACE;
THE BASHFUL VIRGIN’S SIDE-LONG LOOKS OF LOVE,
THE MATRON’S GLANCE THAT WOULD THOSE LOOKS REPROVE!
THESE WERE THEY CHARMS, SWEET VILLAGE, SPORTS LIKE THESE,
WITH SWEET SUCCESSION,TAUGHT EVEN TOIL TO PLEASE;
THESE ROUND THY BOWERS THEIR CHEERFUL INFLUENCE SHED
THESE WERE THY CHARMS-BUT ALL THESE CHARMS ARE FLED.
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is describing the leisure activities of the simple villagers, which have now come to
an end as the village wears a deserted look. The toiling masses worked hard for the whole week and eagerly waited the
seventh day when they could enjoy themselves to their heart’s content. On a holiday, the people gathered at different places
and took part in various activities. While the young people competed with one another, the old observed them. When the
people were tired of one game, they began something else. They divided themselves into couples, each couple trying to
dance for the longest time to get renown. They also blackened the face of some innocent rustic and then laughed at him
secretly. Young girls tried to look secretly at their lovers but such looks were disapproved of by their matron. Once the
laborer rustics were compelled to leave their native land, the village looked barren and deserted. All the charms of the village
were gone with the rustics no more being there.

Lines

ILL FARES THE LAND, TO HASTENING ILLS A PREY

WHERE WEALTH ACCUMULATES, AND MEN DECAY;
PRINCESS AND LORDS MAY FLOURISH, OR MAY FADE;
A BREATH CAN MAKE THEM, AS A BREATH HAS MADE;
BUT A BOLD PEASANTRY, THEIR COUNTRY’S PRIDE
WHEN ONCE DESTROYED CAN NEVER BE SUPPLIED.
Explanation

The lines given for explanation present a picture of the village after it was deserted. The simple abode of the innocent rustics
had fell a prey to injustice and cruelty. Wealth was accumulating in a few hands while the common man suffered from
misery, poverty and deprivation. The bulk of the population consists of hardworking villagers. The rich may grow richer and
get all the honour and titles but that does not make much difference. The real asset and wealth of the country are the poor,
toiling formers. If they are once destroyed, no one can replace them. The joy and satisfaction life is lost forever.

The Lay of the Last Minstrel

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The given lines are an extract from the poem The Lay of the Last Minstrel written by Sir Walter Scott. The poem deals with the theme of patriotism. The
poet believes that love and loyalty towards one’s motherland is a natural feeling, and anyone devoid of it, is nothing but a symbol of greed and
selfishness. In the first place, the poet wishes to know whether there are such people in the world who have no sense of attachment and allegiance
towards their nation, and never feel proud and honoured to speak of the homeland, where they are born and brought up. Then the poet suggests that
we should be vigilant of such elements and always keep an eye on them. They are worthless and deserve to be condemned in spite of all their wealth,
high rank and authority. Finally the poet believes that such unpatriotic people face an unceremonious end. They lose, their reputation during their
lifetime, and when they die, it means death for them in two ways. Firstly they suffer physical death when their body perishes and then their name is
also buried forever. No one shed tears of sorrow at their death, no one pays homage to them and no one sings songs of appreciation for them. In this
way, they get a well-deserved death.

Lines

BREATHES THERE THE MAN WITH SOUL SO DEAD,

WHO NEVER TO HIMSELF HATH SAID,
THIS IS MY OWN, MY NATIVE LAND!
WHOSE HEART HATH NE’ER WITHIN HIM BURN’D,
AS HOME HIS FOOTSTEPS HE HATH TURN’D,
FROM WANDERING ON A FOREIGN STRAND!
Explanation

In the lines given for contextual explanation, the poet wants to know whether there are unpatriotic people existing on this earth. He wishes to identify
such people who are absolutely devoid of the love of the nation. Such people never take due pride in their motherland. If a person remains away from
his country for a long time, it is natural that he should feel delighted and satisfied while re-tracing his steps to his own soil. However if such sentiments
are not aroused in him, it indicates that the noble feeling of patriotism is not found in him and he has no affiliation with his own land.

Lines

IF SUCH THERE BREATHE, GO MARK HIM WELL;

FOR HIM NO MINSTREL RAPTURES SWELL;
HIGH THOUGH HIS TITLES, PROUD HIS NAME,
BOUNDLESS HIS WEALTH AS WISH CAN CLAIM;
DESPITE THOSE TITLES, POWER AND PELF,
THE WRETCH, CONCENTRED ALL IN SELF
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is sounding a word of caution against those who have not the slightest trace of patriotism in them. The poet
wishes that such selfish and unscrupulous people should be identified. We should always be watchful of such people. It is possible that such elements
possess high titles and ranks. They may be exercising great power and authority. They may also be rolling in wealth and having all the luxuries and
amenities of life. However, they prove to be the most miserable people since they are too self-centered, and always look to their own gains. They pay
no heed to the glory and integrity of the nation but go on filling their own coffers.

Lines

LIVING, SHALL FORFEIT FAIR RENOWN,

AND, DOUBLY DYING, SHALL GO DOWN
TO THE VILE DUST FROM WHENCE HE SPRUNG,
UNWEPT, UNHONOUR’D, AND UNSUNG.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is referring to the fate of such a person who is completely devoid of the spirit of patriotism. People begin
recognizing such elements during their lifetime and they begin losing their name and fame. When such unpatriotic people die, it means a “double
death” for them. In the first place, their body perishes and they are buried. They go back to the same dust from which they were created. At the same
time their name and fame is also lost forever. When such an unpatriotic person departs from this world no eyes are filled with tears and no one mourns
over her grief. No homage or tribute is paid to such a person as no one utters a word of praise or appreciation for him. No songs are sung in his
memory and no one remembers him after his death. Thus, he suffers a death of disgrace and ignominy.

Sonnet Composed Upon West Minster Bridge

Reference to the Context

Introduction
The given lines are an extract from the poem Sonnet Composed Upon Westminster Bridge written by William Words Worth.
The poet describes and appreciates the beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the city of London as he looks at it in the early
hours of morning. He considers it to be the most splendid, wonderful and charming sight in the world and believes that every
one is bound to be impressed by it.

Lines

EARTH HAS NOT ANY THING TO SHOW MORE FAIR:

DULL WOULD HE BE OF SOUL WHO COULD PASS BY
A SIGHT SO TOUCHING IN ITS MAJESTY:
Explanation

As the poet stands upon the Westminster Bridge at dawn, he admires the beauty of the city of London. According to him, it is
the most charming sight in the world. He feels that no onlooker can remain unimpressed by it. However, if one is not affected
by the beauty and tranquility of the sight, it implies that he has lost all aesthetic sense and is devoid of all finer emotions.

Lines

THIS CITY NOW DOTH, LIKE A GARMENT WEAR

THE BEAUTY OF THE MORNING; SILENT, BARE,
SHIPS, TOWERS, DOMES, THEATRES AND TEMPLES LIE
OPEN UNTO THE FIELDS, AND TO THE SKY;
ALL BRIGHT AND GLITTERING IN THE SMOKELESS AIR.
Explanation

The poet describes the city as he observes it in the early hours of the day. The city of London seems to be wearing the
dress of beauty and serenity. Everything can be seen clearly sparkling in the fog less surrounding. While standing on the
bridge, the poet can observe the ships sailing, the towers and domes of buildings, the different places of worship and
amusement. Since the atmosphere is free from smoke and pollution, everything seems to be dazzling in the rays of the
rising sun.

Lines

NEVER DID SUN MORE BEAUTIFULLY STEEP

IN HIS FIRST SPLENDOUR VALLEY, ROCK OR HILL;
NE’ER SAW I, NEVER FELT, A CALM SO DEEP!
THE RIVER GLIDETH AT HIS OWN SWEET WILL;
DEAR GOD! THE VERY HOUSES SEEM ASLEEP;
AND ALL THAT MIGHTY HEART IS LYING STILL!
Explanation

The city of London appears to be coloured with golden tint of the majestic sun. The rays of the sun cover even the valleys
and hills around the cosmopolitan city. The poet points out that he has not experienced such a peaceful atmosphere in his
life. Moreover, he has never come across such an appealing and impressive view. He sees the River Thames flowing gently
and smoothly under the bridge. He realizes that the entire city seems to be sounding asleep. All the places that are full of
hustle and bustle and hectic activity are at this time serene and peaceful. London being the heart of England is bubbling with
life and activity but at dawn, it appears to be at rest and presents a wonderful picture of unrivalled charm and tranquility.

Lucy Gray
Reference to the Context

Introduction

William Words Worth is considered to be one of the greatest and the most prominent figures in the realm of English
literature. He was an ardent worshipper of the beauty of Nature. For him, Nature is a living entity, throbbing with life and
intensity. Word worth believed poetry to be a spontaneous over flow of emotion but while expressing that spontaneity, he
always made use of very simple words which touched the hearts of the readers. In this narrative poem, which is one in the
series of Lucy poems, Lucy, the innocent child becomes a symbol of charm and naivete. She is full of playfulness and
vivacity but she fall a prey to an unfortunate incident and the span of her life is cut short due to it. The poem relates the story
of the tragic end and sudden death of the sweet child.

Lines

NO MATE, NO COMRADE LUCY, KNEW;

SHE DWELT ON A WIDE MOOR-
 THE SWEETEST THING THAT EVER GREW
BESIDE A HUMAN DOOR!
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is referring to the sweet, innocent child, Lucy. She is presented as a simple,
Beautiful creation of Nature. She is passing a life of serene solitude on a barren land. She has no friends or companions.
The poet compares her to a fragrant flower blossoming in the wildness.

Lines

YOU YET MAY SPY THE FAWN AT PLAY,

THE HARE UPON THE GREEN;
BUT THE SWEET FACE OF LUCY GRAY
WILL NEVER MORE BE SEEN.
Explanation

In these lines, the note of tragedy creeps in. The poet admires all the beautiful creations of Nature. He appreciates the
jocundity of the young deer and the frivolity of the loping hare on the green grass but he is overcome with gloom and
sadness to realize that he would not be able to see the face of Lucy anymore. Then the poet begins describing the
unfortunate incident which results in the death of Lucy.

Lines

NOT BLITHER IS THE MOUNTAIN ROE:

WITH MANY A WANTON STROKE
HE FEET DISPERSE THE POWDERY SNOW
THAT RISES UP LIKE SMOKE.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet describes the playfulness and jolly mood of the sweet child, Lucy. As Lucy is
proceeding to the town to bring her mother back from there, she seems to be in a very cheerful countenance. She is more
active and agile then a deer. She goes on kicking at the snow. The tender flakes of snow rise in the form of smoke. It
presents an Beautiful sight as Lucy appears to be enraptured in her world of gaiety and gamboling.

Lines

THE WRETCHED PARENTS ALL THAT NIGHT

WENT SHOUTING FAR AND WIDE;
BUT THERE WAS NEITHER SOUND NOR SIGHT
TO SERVE THEM FOR A GUIDE.
Explanation

In the given lines, the poet points out that after Lucy loses he way in the tempest, she suffers a tragic death. Thereafter, her
parents go on looking for her in every nook or corner. They are overcome with misery and depression as they fail to find her
whereabouts. They are unable to visualize her charming face, neither is her sweet voice audible to them. They get no trace
of her, and in the end, they are compelled to accept the tragic fact that Lucy is no more alive.

Lines

-YET SOME MAINTAIN THAT TO THIS DAY

SHE IS A LIVING CHILD;
THAT YOU MAY SEE SWEET LUCY GRAY
UPON THE LONESOME WILD.
Explanation

In this closing stanza of the poem, the poet refers to the wild imagination of those who are still living in the world of fancy
believing Lucy to be a “Living Child.” They have not yet reconciled to the fact that Lucy has suffered physical death. They not
only think that she is alive but also imagine that she is running and playing all over the place. They also imagine Lucy
singing a sweet song and her voice reverberating all over the natural surrounding. However, it is nothing more than their
imagination because Lucy has already fallen a prey to tragic end.

The Toys
Reference to the Context

Introduction
In this narrative poem, the poet points out that God is always kind and merciful to man but man often fails to follow the
commands of his Creator. The poem relates the story of father and son. The father treats the son harshly but later realizes
his mistake and asks for forgiveness from God for his foolish behaviour. He hopes that as he has forgiven his son, God
would pardon him for his childishness.

Lines

AND MOVED AND SPOKE IN QUIET GROWN-UP WISE,

HAVING MY LAW THE SEVENTH TIME DISOBEY’D,
I STRUCK HIM, AND DISMISS’D
WITH HARD WORDS AND UNKISS’D,
-HIS MOTHER, WHO WAS PATIENT, BEING DEAD.
Explanation

The poem tells the story of a father and his son. The little boy always appeared to be serious and thoughtful. He behaved
like grown-ups but sometime his childish instinct made him commit follies. When he disobeyed his father for the seventh
time, he was beaten, scolded and turned out without being kissed. There was no one to defend or console him because his
mother was no more in this world.

Lines

THEN FEARING LEST HIS GRIEF SHOULD HINDER SLEEP,

I VISITEDHIS BED,
BUT FOUND HIM SLUMBERING DEEP,
WITH DARKEN’D EYELIDS, AND THEIR LASHES YET
FROM HIS LATE SOBBING WET.
Explanation

The father realized that he had been too harsh with his son. He feared that the child might not be able to sleep due to his
grief. He visited his son’s bed and found him sound asleep. The boy had fallen into a slumber while weeping because his
eyes appeared swollen and his eyelashes were still wet with tears.

Lines

AND I, WITH MOAM,

KISSING AWAY HIS TEARS, LEFT OTHERS OF MY OWN;
FOR, ON A TABLE DRAWN BESIDE HIS HEAD,
HE HAD PUT, WITHIN HIS REACH,
A BOX OF COUNTERS AND A RED-VEIN’D STONE,
A PIECE OF GLASS ABRADED BY THE BEACH,
AND SIX OR SEVEN SHELLS,
A BOTTLE WITH BLUE BELLS,
AND TWO FRENCH COPPER COINS RANGED THERE WITH CAREFUL ART,
TO COMFORT HIS SAD HEART.
Explanation

The father felt very repentant and aggrieved. He absorbed the tears of his son in his lips but left his own tears on his face.
He noticed that the boy had sought consolation in small, ordinary objects. Near his bed, he had pulled a table on which he
had arranged very skillfully things like counters, a red stone, a rough piece of glass, some flowers and shells and two coins.
All these insignificant things provided ease and comfort to his sad heart.

Lines

SO WHEN THAT NIGHT I PRAY’D

TO GOD, I WEPT AND SAID:
AH! WHEN AT LAST WE LIE WITH TRANCED BREATH,
NOT VEXING THEE IN DEATH,
AND THOU REMEMBEREST OF WHAT TOYS
WE MADE OUR JOYS,
HOW WEAKLY UNDERSTAND,
THY GREAT COMMANDED GOOD,
THEN, FATHERLY NOT LESS
THAN I WHOM THOU HAST MOULDED FROM THE CLAY,
THOU’LT LEAVE THY WRATH, AND SAY,
‘I WILL BE SORRY FOR THEIR CHILDISHNESS.’
Explanation
The father was so overawed with shame and grief that when that night he prayed to God, he could not help shedding tears
of sincere regret. He pointed out that man fails to understand the commands of God, and there are some who do not fear
God even on their death-bed. However, God is the most Beneficent and the most Merciful. He provides man with all the
simple joys of life. The father forgives his son and hopes that God, being like and guardian and benefactor of the entire
human race would pardon him for his rash and unreasonable behaviour towards his son.

Incident of the French Camp

Reference to Context

Introduction

These lines have been extracted from the poem Incident of the French Camp written by Robert Browning. The poem
describes an act of chivalry, gallantry, patriotism and sacrifice on the part of a young French Soldier. The French Army had
attacked the German city of Ratisbon. After they had achieved triumph, the news of the victory was conveyed to the
Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte by that young soldier who was brimming with pride and glory although he was on the verge of
death. Thereafter, the wounded soldier breathed his last.

Lines

YOU KNOW, WE FRENCH STORMED RATISBON:

A MILE OR SO AWAY,
ON A LITTLE MOUND, NAPOLEON
STOOD ON OUR STORMING DAY;
WITH NECK OUT-THRUST, YOU FANCY HOW,
LEGS WIDE, ARMS LOCKED BEHIND,
AS IF TO BALANCE THE PRONE BROW
OPPRESSIVE WITH ITS MIND.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is describing the scene of the French attack on the German city of Ratisbon.
Marshal Lannes led the French aggression in the year 1783. On that occasion, the French emperor Napoleon stood on a
hillock just a mile away from the scene of the onslaught. He appeared to be in a pensive mood. He had his neck sticking out
and his legs were wide apart. He had his arms joined behind his bark and a cloud on his brow was quite visible. It seemed
that something very important was weighing upon his mind and he was perhaps working out his future strategy and line of
action.

Lines

JUST AS PERHAPS HE MUSED, MY PLANS

THAT SOAR, TO EARTH MAY FALL,
LET ONCE MY ARMY.LEADER LANNES
WAVER AT YONDER WALL,’-
OUT ’TWIST THE BATTERY SMOKES THERE FLEW
A RIDER, BOUND ON BOUND
FULL-GALLOPING; NOR BRIDLE DREW
UNTIL HE REACHED THE MOUND.
Explanation

These lines bring to light the contemplative nature of Napoleon, and the courage and enthusiasm of the young soldier who
was heading towards him to convey the good news of victory. Napoleon was lost in his thoughts pondering over the events
of the days to come. All his future planning depended upon his success at Ratisbon. He was eagerly waiting to see the
French flag flutter over the German City. As he concentrated upon his future strategy, he observed a young French soldier
rushing towards him, riding at top speed. The rider pierced through the blanket of smoke. He came straight to the place
where Napoleon was standing and was waiting to receive the good tidings.

Lines

THEN OFF THERE FLUNG IN SMILING JOY,

AND HELD HIMSELF ERECT
BY JUST HIS HORSE’S MANE, A BOY:
YOU HARDLY COULD SUSPECT –
(SO TIGHT HE KEPT HIS LIPS COMPRESSED,
SCARCE ANY BLOOD CAME THROUGH)
YOU LOOKED TWICE ERE YOU SAW HIS BREAST
WAS ALL BUT SHOT IN TWO.
Explanation

In the given lines, the poet appreciated the heroic behaviour of the young soldier. Although he was fatally wounded, he
displayed extraordinary courage, confidence and self-control. He jumped off his horse and stood at attention before his
chief. His mouth was full of blood but he had his lips so tightly sealed that not a drop of blood oozed out of it. He maintained
his cool and composure, and with confidence and chivalry, conveyed the cheerful news of victory. One could never realize
that the young soldier’s breast was shot into two unless one has very keen and observant eye on him.

Lines

‘WELL, CRIED HE, ‘EMPEROR, BY GOD’S GRACE

WE’VE GOT YOU RATISBON!
THE MARSHAL’S IN THE MARKET-PLACE,
AND YOU’LL BE THERE ANON
TO SEE YOUR FLAG-BIRD FLAP HIS VANS
WHERE I, TO HEART’S DESIRE,
PERCHED HIM!’ THE CHIEF’S EYE FLASHED; HIS PLANS
SOARED UP AGAIN LIKE FIRE.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is describing the way in which the young soldier informed Napoleon of their
success and the reaction of the Emperor to this good news. Although the young man was in intense pain and suffering, he
finally opened his lips, and with a great sense of pleasure and personal pride, informed Napoleon of the annexation of the
German City. Napoleon was delighted to learn that Marshall Lannes had reached the heart of the city and the emperor was
eagerly awaited by the triumphant forces. The soldier felt a special kind of joy and pride in the fact that he, with his own
hands, had flown the French flag over Ratisbon. The flag had the figure of a bird on it. Thus when the flag fluttered in the air,
it seemed as though the bird on it. Thus when the flag fluttered in the air, it seemed as though the bird was flapping its
wings. No sooner did Napoleon get the news of victory, a sparkle of joy and satisfaction came to his eyes. He once again
started thinking about his future strategy.

Lines

THE CHIEF’S EYE FLASHED; BUT PRESENTLY

SOFTENED ITSELF, AS SHEATHES
A FILM THE MOTER-EAGLE’S EYE
WHEN HER BRUISED EAGLET BREATHES:
‘YOU’RE WOUNDED!, ‘NAY’, HIS SOLDIER’S PRIDE
TOUCHED TO THE QUICK, HE SAID:
‘I’M KILLED, SIRE!” AND HIS CHIEF BESIDE,
SMILING, THE BOY FELL DEAD.
Explanation

These lines bring to light Napoleon’s loving and affectionate behaviour towards the young soldier who was about to breathe
his last. The good news of success had brought to Napoleon’s eyes a special kind of glitter which faded away no sooner had
he noticed that the soldier was fatally wounded. The feelings of Napoleon at that moment were just like those of the mother
eagle who gets confused when she finds her young ones badly bruised and on the verge of death. She fails to understand
how to save their lives. Similarly, that maternal affection surged up in Napoleon’s heart and he inquired whether the boy was
wounded. The soldier proudly declared that he felt joy and thrill in giving his life for his country. There was a smile of pride
and satisfaction on the young soldier’s lips as he fell dead near his emperor’s feet.

Incident of French Camp

Introduction of the Poet

The poem The Incident of French Camp is composed by great English poet Robert browning. The browning was extremely
religious and because of his religious opinions, he was excluded from university or public school. He was educated at home
under a private tutor, and spends his modest time in gathering the best literature in English, French, Latin and Greek.

Introduction of the Poem

This is subjective poem; the incident reported in this dramatic poem happened in 1809. The poem for all its weaknesses is
fast moving and exciting, the poem consisting of 35 lines of regular rhythm.

Summary
In this poem, Browning paints the picture of an incident of the French Camp, in dramatic version. He describes the heroic
action of a wounded soldier, who’s heroic devotion to duty and his pride in it and inspiring and worthy of admiration. The
poet has given a poetic amount of incidence that took place during the attack of French army on German City Ratisbon.
During the attack of French army on Ratisbon, Napoleon was much worried about the result. Germans were defending
Ratisbon with great determination and coverage. Napoleon’s future plan depends upon the result. Napoleon was not able to
conquer Germany and neighboring states. He was standing on mound near the battlefield watching the war.
All of sudden a rider appeared from the closed smoke and dust. Full galloping he approached near the mound where
Napoleon was standing. As the came closer Napoleon notice that he was a young boy seriously wounded and not far from
his death. As he came near he jumped of the horse and gave happy news of victory. He exclaimed with joy that French had
conquered the Ratisbon and he himself has hoisted the flag of France on German city with a little touch of pride in lie tone
he informed Napoleon that he has played an important role in the victory at the risk of his life. Actually he expected some
words of appreciation from his Emperor.
“A work of real merit wants favour at last.”
____________________________________________________A.B. Alcott

Napoleon was very much delighted by the news of victory. He reflected an expression of joy just for a moment but he quickly
connected his feeling. In fact he had noticed showing concern he asked the young boy about his injuries.
The formula question was misunderstood by the young soldier. He thought that the Emperor had utterly ignored his
remarkable courage.
“A killing tongue but a quite sword.”
__________________________________________________Shakespeare
The young soldier had done a great job for his homeland and hand almost bride down his life for the victory of France.
Napoleon’s question deeply hurt his self respect. He announced:
“I am killed sire.”
After saying these words he fell before his master and died with a grateful smile on his face. He was proud that he had done
his duty for his homeland at the cost of his life.

Abou Ben Adhem

Introduction of the Poet

James Henry Leigh Hunt was born in 1784. He was a religious man educated at Christ Hospital. He then became the editor
and writer of a newspaper called The Examiner. His early poems are The Story of Remini and Endymion. The earliest
poems he wrote were published when he was in school. In English Literature, Leigh Hunt is known for his achievements as
an editor, a critic and an essayist and not so much as a poet.

Introduction of the Poem

Abou Ben Adhem is a poem with a religious concept. The poet has conveyed the ideas of happiness, peace and love
through easy and flowing rhymed couplets.
“Love is in your heart which is given by God, so give it to others.”
_____________________________________________________________________ John Keats
The poem consists of 2 stanzas, which are composed of 11 lines. It also has some archaic words.

Summary

Abou Ben Adhem was a religious person. One night when he was sleeping peacefully in his room, a sparkling light woke him
up.
He found out that this bright light was due to the presence of an angel who was writing something in a golden book. Being a
pious man, Abou was not afraid of the Angel and the silence in the room made him more courageous. He asked the angel
what he was writing in the book. The reply Abou heard was that he was writing the names of all those people who love God.
About asked the angel curiously if his name was in the list. The angel replied was negative. He then politely requested the
angel to write his name as those people who love God’s fellow men. The angle wrote and disappeared.
The other night, it came again with a still glistening light and displayed the names of people whom God had blessed. Abou
Ben Adhem saw that his name was on the top of the list and it led all the rest.

Moral

This poem conducts the idea that we should love humanity and care for people.
“To get love from God, love the board.”
________________________________ Williams Wordsworth

The Character of a Happy Life

Introduction of the Poet
The poem The Character of a Happy Life, has been written by Sir Henry Wotton. He was born in Kent and the son of country
gentleman. In this poem Wotton has described the characteristics of a person who can truly be called a happy man.

Introduction of the Poem

We find Wotton’s poem is a sharp sense of contrast between the uneasy life of the ambitious man and the contented life of
man satisfied to live an obscure life of peaceful virtue. Sir Henry Wotton wrote from experience; for he was a distinguished
servant of the crown who had seen for himself the rise and fall of ambitious men. The poem consisting of six stanzas of
regular couplet rhymed.
“Nature is the peace not the Land.”
__________________________________ John Keats

Summary

A person who has freedom of will and thought leads a happy life. He does not act according to other people’s wishes. His
only weapon is his simplicity and truth.
Such an upright man is not a slave of his desires. He is always prepared for death. This man is not concerned about being
famous or in what people say about him publicly or privately.
This upright man is not jealous of chance or foul play. He knows that flattery gives the deepest wounds. He does not abide
by the rules of the society which compel a person to do unwanted deeds. He follows the rules of goodness which will lead
him to the right path.
A happy man’s life is free from numerous when he is sad he retires in his comfort of clear conscience. He hasn’t got a high
position. Therefore people don’t flatter him or nick him at his down fall. A happy man prays to God regularly. In this prayer he
does not ask for rocks but he asks God to be gracious and merciful on him. His favourite positive is good book or friend. A
man who is truly happy is free from slavery of his desires. He isn’t ambitious. He does not expect too much therefore his
hopes aren’t shattered. He doesn’t fear a downfall. This man hasn’t got lands or wealth and yet he has everything. He has
got the greatest wealth of contentment and happiness.

Conclusion

The poet described the characteristics of a noble and happy man, who is honest, simple, not slave of his desires. He follows
the rules of goodness, which will lead him to the right path.

The Abbot of Canterbury

Introduction

The poem The Abbot of Canterbury, included in our book, is a ballad. Ballads have crude language because fine writing
would not be suitable for the telling of this straightforward and amusing folk story. King John ruled England from 1199 to
1219, was a very unpleasant man and a thoroughly bad kind.

Structure of Poem

The Abbot of Canterbury is a ballad of unknown poet telling an ancient story consisting of 100 lines of regular rhythm.

Summary

There was a king of England whose name was King John. He ruled England very cruelly and he always did the wrong thing.
Once he came to know that there was an Abbot of Canterbury who was leading life better than the king. He had one
hundred servants and each one there wore fifty gold chains and velvet coat. They where always ready to serve the Abbot.
For very minor things they used to go to the city of London.
This way of leading life angered the king and his sent for the Abbot to explain his position before the king. The Abbot said to
him that he was spending the money so luxuriously because he had inherited a lot of money from his fore fathers. The king
disbelieved him and charged him to be a traitor.
The king said to Abbot that his life and properties would be confiscated by the government if he could not answer his three
questions. There was given three weeks time to answer those questions.

 The first question was what his worth and value was when he was having such a precious crown on his head.
 The second question was how soon he could make the journey of the whole world.
 The third question was that he was thinking at that time when he was talking to the Abbot of Canterbury.
After listening three questions the Abbot was very much confuse. He confessed that he had no mind to answer those difficult
questions. He went to many universities but no one was able to answer him.
Then the shepherd of the Abbot offered him that he would imposter the Abbot prodded he was given the relevant dress of
the Abbot.
In reply to the first question he said that his value was twenty-nine pence. In response to the second question he said if he
rose with the sun and rode with the same he would complete the journey of the world in 24 hours. In response to the third
question he said that he thinking that he was talking to the Abbot by he was not the Abbot but the shepherd. The king was
very happy, he rewarded him and pardoned the Abbot.

Letters
1. Letter to the editor of a newspaper expressing your views on frequent power breakdown in the city.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
The Editor,
The Daily DAWN,
Karachi.

Dear Sir,
I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities, through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, towards an
extremely vital and tormenting problems of the city.
For the last several months, the people of Karachi, in spite of paying all types of taxes and utility bills, are encountering
problems due to frequent power failures. Frequent breakdowns have become a headache for the residents particularly for
students who have to prepare for their examinations. I regret to point out that it seems as if there is nobody to take care of
the citizens and solve their problems. The authorities have not paid any attention or given a positive response to the
repeated requests of the residents of Karachi. The situation has now reached at an alarming stage, which may result in the
form of protests and caustic damages of the government buildings.
The concerned authorities are therefore requested to look into this matter without further delay and take suitable steps to
solve the problem.
Thanking you for your cooperation.
Yours truly,
X. Y. Z
A Citizen of Karachi.

2. Letter to the Health Officer complaining of the unsanitary conditions in your locality.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
The Health Officer,
District East,
Karachi.

Dear Sir,
I wish to draw your attention towards an extremely vital and tormenting problems of our locality.
For a long time, the people of our neighborhood, in spite of paying all types of taxes and utility bills, are encountering
problems caused by the unsanitary conditions. Unclean and dirty lanes with overflowing drains are causing great trouble and
tension among the residents. I regret to point out as if there is if there is nobody to take care of the citizens and solve their
problems. We have been facing the torture of messy conditions and improper drainage system and the authorities pay no
heed to our complaints.
The situation has now reached at an alarming stage, which may result in the form of protests and caustic damages of the
government buildings. I hope you would look into this matter without further delay and take suitable steps to solve the
problems.
Yours truly,
X. Y. Z
Resident of P. Q. R. Area,
Karachi.

3. Letter to the editor of a newspaper expressing your views on water shortage in your area.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
The Editor,
The Daily DAWN,
Karachi.
Dear Sir,
I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities, through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, towards an
extremely vital and tormenting problems of our neighbourhood.
For the last several months, the people of this residency, in spite of paying all types of taxes and utility bills, are
encountering problems due to water shortage. Most of the time, pressure of the water is low and it takes quite a lot of time to
fill a bucket. We are facing the torture of hot summer without proper water supply. I regret to point out that it seems as if
there is nobody to take care of the citizens and solve their problems. The authorities have not paid any attention or given a
positive response to the repeated requests of the residents. The situation has now reached at an alarming stage, which may
result in the form of protests and caustic damages of the government buildings.
The concerned authorities are therefore requested to look into this matter without further delay and take suitable steps to
solve the problem.
Thanking you for your cooperation.
Yours truly,
X. Y. Z
Resident of P. Q. R. Area,
Karachi

4. A letter to the editor of a newspaper making an appeal to the readers to help the victims of flood.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
The Editor,
The Daily DAWN,
Karachi.

Dear Sir,
The recent floods have rendered thousands of people homeless. They have lost all they had. Most of them had no other
source of income except the land they cultivated. They are now lying in camps in a miserable condition. They have no place
to go and no means of livelihood.
Through the columns of you esteemed paper, I request the readers to contribute as much as they can towards the Relief
Fund started by the Government. We must thank God that we are safe. So we should be helpful to them. If we do not help
them in their misery, who would? Every one of us should send at least a day’s income to the Relief Fund. Let them not think
for a moment that they are being neglected in their hour of need. They are brethren and let as give the proof of our
brotherhood by helping them. It is passing phase and they will look after themselves when rehabilitated.
Thanking you for your cooperation.
Yours truly,
X. Y. Z
Resident of P. Q. R. Area,
Karachi

5. A letter to a leading newspaper, about the problem of beggary in your town.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
The Editor,
The Daily DAWN,
Karachi.

Dear Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed paper, I want to invite the attention of the district authorities to the problem of
beggary in our town. Recently, the number of beggars in our town has increased manifold you. They pursue you like a
shadow. Even hale and hearty people have taken to begging. Small boys and children have caught the infection. Perhaps
they are made to beg by their guardians.
The beggars gather at places frequented by the people. The bus stands, market places, post offices, railway station and
mosques are their favourite haunts. It is impossible to move about these places peacefully. If you sho generosity and open
you purse, you are surrounded by a host of them.
Some child-lifters, in the guise of beggars, are on the look out for abducting children. Two or three cases of this kind have
occurred recently, and the culprits have been caught red-handed.
The female beggars enter the houses quietly without calling out for alms at the door. If they are not noticed by the inmates,
they run away with whatever they can lay hands on. They act as informers to the burglars who break into houses at night.
A prompt action on the part of Government is required to check this social evil.
Yours truly,
X. Y. Z
Resident of P. Q. R. Area,
Karachi

6. Letter to a friend requesting him/her for a loan of Rs.500 which will be returned a your earliest.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
My Dear Friend,
Hope this letter finds you in the best of health and satisfaction. As you know that we have been living in Karachi only for the
last four years. We do not have many relatives or friends in the city. You are the only friend nearest to our city, so you were
the first I thought of. The problem I am facing is that my parents have gone to Islamabad, being notified about my grand
father’s death and the last date for the submission of examination forms is near. We have to pay an amount of Rs. 330 along
with the admission forms. I would be very thankful to you if you could deliver me a sum of Rs. 500 by money order, which
would be returned at my earliest.
Pay regards to your parents and love to you brothers. Please try to respond as soon as possible.
Yours sincerely,
X. Y. Z

7. A letter to your father, requesting an increase in you monthly allowance.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
My Dear Father,
I hope you are fine. I am also fine here. I would like to inform you that my exams have just ended and you will be glad to
know that I have done all the papers to my satisfaction. I hope to get good marks.
For the last few months I have been finding it difficult to meet my expenses out of the amount you send me very month. After
paying my tuition fee and hostel dues, I am left hardly with any money. I have to cut down my expenses on necessary
things.
I have borne this hardship, but now I feel that I can bear it no longer. I, therefore, request an increase of sixty 200 rupees in
my monthly allowance.
Pay regards to Mother and love to youngsters. Please try to respond as soon as possible.
Your affectionate son,
X. Y. Z

8. Letter to a friend, inviting him to join you on a visit to a hill station.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
My Dear Friend,
Hope this letter finds you in the best of health and satisfaction. Perhaps you remember your promise of accompanying me to
Murree in the summer vacation. I am sending this letter to remind you of the same.
Our college is closing on the 15th of this month. We may start our journey soon after that. I leave it entirely to you to fix the
date and time of our departure. To me, any date and time will be most welcome.
You can well imagine the pleasure and enjoyment we will have in the cool and health-giving climate of Murree. It will be a
pleasant change for you from the sweltering heat of Multan to the refreshing atmosphere of Murree. You need not bother
about accommodation. My maternal uncle owns a large house there. We can put up with him for as long as we wish.
Pay regards to your parents and love to you brothers. I am waiting for your reply anxiously. Please try to respond as soon as
possible. The whole program depends on your letter.
Yours sincerely,
X. Y. Z

9. A letter to your friend, inviting him to attend the marriage ceremony of your elder brother.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
My Dear Friend,
Hope this letter finds you in the best of health and satisfaction. As you know about the proposed marriage of my elder
brother. The date has now been fixed. It is the 28th of this month. It iss expected that a large number of friends and relatives
will participate in the ceremony. It will indeed be a memorable occasion for all of us.
I should hope that you will join us a couple of days before the marriage day. You will find many of our old friends here, and
we shall have a good time. I am not sending you any formal invitation, because I think we are above all formalities.
Pay regards to your parents and love to you brothers. Please try to participate in the ceremony.
Yours sincerely,
X. Y. Z

10. A letter of condolence to your friend on the death of his mother.

Examination Hall,
A.B.C Road,
Karachi
9th February 2000
My Dear Friend,
I am much grieved to learn from your letter about the sad demise of your dear mother. May her soul rest in eternal peace! It
is indeed an irreparable loss. You have suffered much at so tender an age. But none can avert the decree of Fate.
Therefore, my dear friend, have patience and learn to bear quietly your misfortunes.
How bitterly you father must be grieving over the loss! I pay to the Almighty that he may give all of you the strength and
patience to bear the loss. I deeply condole with you upon this loss and bereavement.
Kindly convey my deepest sympathies to your father and other members of your family. I shall come to see you in a day or
two.
Yours sincerely,
X. Y. Z

Essays
The Kashmir Problem It was decided during the campaign of Pakistan, that the Provinces having Muslim majority
should be included in Pakistan. The people of Kashmir were willing to join Pakistan but the Hindu Maharaja Gulab Sigh did against the wishes of the people. The entire
valley of Jammu and Kashmir with its population of 25 Lac was sold by the British to a Dogra Maharaja for Rs 75 Lac. Pakistan took the matter to U.N.O. The United
Nations appointed commision for a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir problem. The commission presented two resolutions on August 13, 1948 and January 5, 1949,
which were re-accepted by the Indian and Pakistan governments and approved by the Security Council. The main points agreed upon were:

 Cease-Fire and the Demarcation of the cease-fire line.

 A free and impartial plebiscite in Kashmir under U.N.O.
 Withdrawal of forces of both the countries from Kashmir.
After the cease-fire, the Indian forces refused to withdraw from the Kashmir valley. In 1951, Dr. Graham tried to solve the
problem but India rejected in February 1953. The Security Council appointed Gonar Jerring in 1957 but India did not agree
to any proposal. At last on August8, 1965, a National Revolutionary Council was formed in occupied Kashmir and the
Mujahids stood against Indian forces. India became so desperate and attacked Pakistan. Pakistan Army pushed back the
Indian forces in a historical way. In 1971 war, Shimla Agreement was written but India did not agree to liberate Kashmir.
Now again the people of Kashmir stood uop against Indian forces and they are fighting for their freedom, which India has to
acord them today or tomorrow. In the words of Late General Mohammad Ayub Khan, the Ex-President of Pakistan, Kashmir
is a “Time Bomb” which would explode at its proper time and that time, we are sure, has come now. Kashmir is a part and
parcel of Pakistan and we can never withdraw from this right.

Duties of Women
The Responsibilities of an Ideal Student
The purpose of education is to produce ideal persons to face the responsibilities of the future. This aim can be achieved only
when the students are sincere and they acquire the education in the real sense. Just copying a few questions and passing
the examination is not an education. A student can never be educated until and unless he does not put his heart and should
to the cause of education. A student is a person, who devotes himself to the pursuits of knowledge and learning. It is
therefore, the first and foremost duty of aj ideal student to seek knowledge. The pursuit of knowledge demands hard work
and full devotion. Unfortunately, the students do not realize their duties. They have confined the education. Their greatest
purpose is to get good grade in the examination by hook or by crook. They adopt all the foul means to get through the
examinations. The ideal student enriches himself with knowledge. In practical life only those students come out with best
colours, who had acquire knowledge.
An ideal student enjoys learning. He goes deep and deep in search of the knowledge. He is not a bookworm. He knows that
a healthy body is necessary for healthy mind. He takes interest in all the activities that promote his physical health. He goes
to the play ground with the same pleasure and enthusiasm with which he studies in the library. An ideal student is not
unsocial. He loves his fellow students and takes part in all the collective activities.
The ideal student respects and honours his teachers. He knows the place of teachers, who are opening the gate of glories
for him. He is humble and obedient. The more he learns from his teachers, the more grateful he is to them. The more
knowledge he gets, the more humble he becomes. An ideal student is not a frog in a well but a person with greater visions
and ideals. He is regular and punctual. He does not participate in adverse and negative activities. He confines himself to his
studies and task. He does not waste his time in useless deeds. He does not keep association with such elements whose
purpose is to damage the cause of education. He believes in simple and plain living. He is kind and generous.

My Aim in Life
Aimless life is certainly a sin. Many people have no definite aim in life. They are like the travelers going a head without any
destination. Such people lead an aimless life and what they do in life, is largely a matter of chance, determined by the
circumstances in which they happen to be placed. Aimless people do not achieve any thing in life. They just live because
they have to live. One should have a definite purpose of life. The people who want success in life, first of all, determine their
target. They keep before them their circumstances, their virtuous, their qualities, their talents and their ability to work. They
select some definite target of their life and remain successful.
Different people have different aims in life. Some aim at wealth, some at power, some at fame, some at business and some
at education and knowledge. My aim is neither wealth nor fame. I wish to serve by country with best of my talent. I love
Pakistan and I really believe that every body should think to make it a really great country. I want to become a doctor. It is a
noble profession. In medical line, there is much more scope of service. On cen serve the patients every where in the
country. This is my personal choice. My parents have compelled me to select it. I wish to become a very successful doctor in
future. So I am studying hard to achieve my target. I have keen intrest in medical line, so I do not feel any trouble in
strudying at all. After obtaining the medical degree, I plan to work in rural areas where there is much shortage of doctors. My
father is well off man and I do not have any financial problem. I do not have the lust of money. I will go to the rural areas and
shall help the poor people. I would be best sort of service. This will give me extreme satisfaction and that is the aim of my
life.
I know, my profession is very dignified and it will help me to get peace and satisfaction in life. It provides you best chances of
service. Sympathy to human being is the sympathy to one own self.

A Cricket Match
Cricket is one of the most popular and exciting out door sports. Some of us get the opportunity to play first class cricket, but
there are millions who enjoy seeing it being played. It gives us moments of leisure and pleasure and fills us with a
competitive spirit. I witnessed the demonstration of the greatest excitement and determination at National Stadium, Karachi.
It was a fine day. A large number of people including men, women and children from all walks of life gathered there to enjoy
the match between Pakistan and New Zealand. To be a good sports team, one has to be aggressive and this was shown in
the final between the tw3o teams. New Zealand won the toss and invited Pakistan to bat first. This was a big blunder that
their captain had made. Shahid Afridi and Saeed Anwar were sent as openers. It was a right decision by the captain,
because Shahid Afridi slammed the ball over the field. It was due to his hard hitting that Pakistan achieved a good start.
Saeed Anwar was very careful and most of the time simply obstructed. The bowling was quite strong, due to which Saeed
Anwar was not able to score a single run for the first fifteen minutes. But as time passed, he grasped the strategy of the
bowlers and began to fully support Afridi. He completed his half-century by playing keen and beautiful shots. When he was
at a score of 88, the first slip caught him smartly. In this way, the first wicket of Pakistan fell at a total of 130. After him,
Shahid Afridi could not steadily face the bowlers and proceeded towards the pavilion in a short time.
Ejaz Ahmed began his batting when the Pakistani team was playing at 135. Along with Inzamamum ul Haq, he pulled up the
score to 170. The next four men were dismissed very quickly – two bowled one caught and one out leg before wickets.
However Moin Khan made a stand and was able to increase the score to 218. At this moment, 10 overs remained un bowled
and three wickets in hand. Wasim Akram played a beautiful inning and Pakistani team snatched a total of 269 for 8.
This terrifying score marked down the morals of the New Zealand Team. They made a poor start, as their first wicket fell
when the score was only ten. However, their middle order batsmen made a great effort and cheered the Kiwi Team.
Inzamam ul Haq was the person who caught the second middle order batsman at 70. The following batsmen also played
quite well and raised up the score to 220 for 5. This situation was exciting and pointed out to the defeat if Pakistan.
However, when Wasim Akram came to bowl, the hopes of Pakistanis revived. He bowled extraordinary well and just after 5
overs, the New Zealand team had reached to 260 for 7. The rival needed barely 10 runs to win in 1 over. The down order
batsmen shook up well. Score kept on increasing gradually and they reached to 266. It was the last ball; New Zealand
requiring 4 runs to win and Waqar Younis was on the other side of the wicket. As soon as he bowled, the wickets were
slammed and Pakistan was granted another exciting victory over New Zealand. The crowd went in mad uproar,
congratulating their national champions for the great success.

Uses and Abuses of Media

Imagine a city without televisions, radios or Internet connections. All these media facilities provide people awareness of what
is going on around them. Electronic as well as Print Media is an effective way of communication as it provides link between
ordinary persons and others in the world. It is only due to newspapers that we can read in the morning about the events that
took place on the other side of the world only the day before. Besides, electronic media can telecast live happenings from
around my corner of the world. Radio, Television and Internet are inventions that extend across all areas of internet
including weather forecasts, entertainment, educational broadcasts, business and important political and social events.
Companies that want to sell their products by advertising also make use of media. Media is very important in the fast moving
world, because without media the society would be unaware of the local and foreign affairs.
Now, we come to the drawbacks of media. Electronic media is the most unpredictable mean of spreading knowledge among
people. One gets biased and one-sided views through this media and nobody can rely on truth. Internet was supposed to be
used for gaining information from throughout the world, but only a fraction uses it for information. Rests are being morally
devaluated through the improper and non-religious publishing. Print media is also playing its role in this regard. Fashion and
Movie Magazines are the main cause of wastage of money and every amidst the young generation. If a newspaper can be
used, it can be misused much easily by spreading views of one political party and other rumours. Readers should be careful
and judicious in selecting the type of media so that they may keep away from its harms.

Patriotism
Patriotism means love and regard for the country. It is a natural instinct that men loves the place where he gets birth and
where he is brought up. It is one of the noblest passions of human nature. The love of country is natural and essential for
every one. Man is a social animal. He cannot live alone. He needs the assistance of other human beings. So the people
belonging to one country are brothers and they work for the collective interest of the country. They struggle to flourish their
country. The man, who works against the interest of his country, is traitor and he does not deserve any sympathy.

The only way to serve Pakistan is that we must be sincere with out country. We must keep our personal interest behind and
we must give supreme importance to the demands of our freedom. Country is not just a piece of land. It is not only the
collection of mountains, rivers and valleys. It is the heritage of our dreams, aspirations, culture, traditions and our great
religion. We love Pakistan because it is the centre of our hopes and future dreams. It is the land of our following generation.
We must try to make it strong and undefeatable castle of Islam.

Patriotism is an active virtue. The real love urges man to do every thing in his power for the welfare of his country. It makes
him perform his duties honestly and devotedly. Patriotism makes him a good citizen, who is always ready to serve his nation
with best of his talents. A good citizen is always ready to give sacrifices for his nation. Patriotism is a sacred passion, which
makes the nation really strong and honorable. It is our duty to keep this passion alive in our hearts.

The great wars of the world were won only because of the extreme sense of Patriotism. Only those nations in the world
survive and distinguish themselves, whose citizens keep a high and a very positive sense of Patriotism. Pakistan can
become a really strong country, when the people of Pakistan are patriots in the real sense of the world. Give you love to
your country and it will give you all the blessings.