question_answer

  Answer the following questions in 30-40 words each.                                                                                         (2 x 4 = 8) (i) 'Tortured by doubt and remorse, he sat down in the glow of the charcoal sigri to wait.' Who is tortured bydoubt and remorse? Why? What is he waiting for? (ii) What did Mrs Packletide do to overawe Loona Bimberton after the tiger hunt? How did Loona Bimberton react to it? (iii) What do the Slaters and the Jordans discuss immediately after arrival for the mourning at the Slater's? What does it show of their character? (iv) It is not the mirror but the woman herself who is responsible for the pain that she experiences. Comment.

Answer:

  (i) It is the postmaster who is tortured by doubt and remorse because he felt he had hurt Ali by being rude tohim. He is filled with regret at his behavior. He sits down to wait for a letter from his daughter who is sick. Now, when he is struck with the same problem he realizes the pain Ali had suffered. (ii) Mrs Packletide extended herself a lot to overawe Loona Bimberton. She got herself photographed forvarious magazines. She offered a tiger-claw brooch and invited her to a luncheon party. On the contrary, Loona Bimberton declined the offer and coldly sent Mrs Packletide a letter of thanks for the gift. (iii) Immediately after arriving Mrs Jordan talks about the mourning dress to be worn at father's cremation. She expresses that it's a great relief for her to get into the black dress. Mrs Slater tells that she has ordered for their new mourning dresses. This shows how selfish and inhuman they are. They are very materialistic and care the least for human values and sentiments. (iv) It is not the mirror but the woman herself who is responsible for the pain that she is experiencing. The mirror is reflecting her image faithfully. It is she herself who, unable to accept her ageing gracefully, indulges in self-pity, bringing about suffering upon herself.