Comprehension

Read the following extracts and answer the questions
"That young master is so proud of his skill to save life that he saves any life," the cook said contemptuously.
"It is the children of whom we must think," Yumi said sadly.
"What will be their fate if their father is condemned as a traitor ?"
They did not try to hide what they said from the ears of Hana as she stood arranging the day's flowers in the veranda near by, and she knew they spoke on purpose that she might hear.
(The Enemy)

Question: 1

Complete the following suitably:
The tone of the cook while speaking about her master’s skill
is

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To identify tone, observe descriptive words and the speaker’s attitude. “Contemptuously” shows disapproval and sarcasm in the cook’s statement.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The cook's tone is scornful. She mocks the doctor's professional arrogance, suggesting he indiscriminately saves lives without ethical judgment, even those of adversaries. Her language conveys resentment and disdain for the doctor's ethical stance.
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Question: 2

‘They spoke on purpose that she might hear’.
They wanted her to hear to convey their:
  • interest
  • disapproval
  • sympathy
  • respect

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Look for emotional cues. “Spoke on purpose” implies intention and “might hear” suggests a deliberate act of expressing dissent.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

(B) disapproval.
The servants intentionally conversed within Hana’s earshot to voice their discontent and ethical opposition to their master’s choice to house and care for an enemy combatant. Their public censure demonstrates a subtle defiance and refusal to endorse his action.
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Question: 3

How is Yumi’s concern for the children justified?

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Character concern is justified when it arises from real threats or consequences, especially during sensitive situations like war.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Yumi's apprehension is valid, stemming from her fear of the social repercussions for the children should their father be perceived as a traitor. In a society characterized by intense patriotism during wartime, aiding an adversary could result in disgrace, penalties, or ostracization. She is concerned about the children's future prospects if their father faces condemnation for betraying national allegiance. Her worries underscore the severe challenges and ethical quandaries prevalent during conflict.
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Question: 4

Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank:
The above extract reveals a (superficial/close) association between the master and the servants.

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Superficial relationships show politeness or functionality but lack emotional depth or mutual respect, as seen in servant-master dynamics here.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The extract indicates a perfunctory connection. Although sharing the same residence and workplace, the servants openly condemn and readily critique their master's choices. They exhibit no emotional intimacy or shared comprehension, suggesting a formal, distant bond based on rank, not regard.
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