HSC English Board Question Paper Solution 2021 September | Maharashtra Board

HSC English (01) Question Paper Solution 2021

SECTION - I : PROSE

Q. 1. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (12) [16]

A1. Rewrite the following sentences and state whether they are True or False: (2)

1. The name of the astrologer was Guru Nayak.
2. A passer-by had saved the other man.
3. The astrologer took out a pinch of salt and held it to the other man.
4. A knife had passed through the other man long ago.

Answers:
(a) False
(b) True
(c) False
(d) True

A2. The other man looked gratified, because ....... (2)

(Choose Two correct alternatives from the following):

1. His enemy was going to meet him in his own village.
2. The astrologer told him that his enemy was crushed under a lorry.
3. His enemy died as he deserved.
4. His enemy was very happy and contented.

Correct Alternatives:
(b) The astrologer told him that his enemy was crushed under a lorry.
(c) His enemy died as he deserved.

A3. The astrologer suggested the other man never to travel southward again: (2)

Guess and write the purpose behind the astrologer's suggestion.

Answer: The purpose behind the astrologer's suggestion was to ensure his own safety. The astrologer himself was the person who had attempted to kill the man years ago. By telling the man to go home and never travel southward (where the astrologer lived), he ensured that the stranger would never cross paths with him again and discover the truth.

A4. Give/express your views on the effect of superstitions. (2)

Answer: Superstitions often stem from fear of the unknown and can have a negative effect on society. They stop people from thinking rationally and scientifically. People may waste money on rituals or live in constant fear of bad omens. However, for some, they provide a psychological crutch or a sense of hope in desperate times. Overall, reliance on superstitions hinders progress and logical thinking.

A5. Language study: (2)

(i) He shook his head regretfully. (Choose the correct alternative to get the Present Perfect Tense form of the given sentence.)

1. He shakes his head regretfully.
2. He has shaken his head regretfully.
3. He had shaken his head regretfully.
4. He will shake his head regretfully.

Answer: (b) He has shaken his head regretfully.

(ii) I will not open my mouth. (Choose the correct alternative to get affirmative form without changing the meaning of the sentence.)

1. I will not close my mouth.
2. I will open my mouth.
3. I will shut my mouth.

Answer: (c) I will shut my mouth.

A6. Find and write the words which have similar meaning for the following from the extract: (2)

1. bargaining
2. surrender under pressure
3. made a low sound of distress
4. to look cautiously

Answers:
(a) haggling
(b) disgorge
(c) groaned
(d) peep

(B) Language Study (Non-Textual Grammar) — (4)

(i) Use the correct articles and rewrite the sentence: (1)

COVID-19 is one of ______ most hazardous diseases witnessed by ______ world.

Answer: COVID-19 is one of the most hazardous diseases witnessed by the world.

(ii) As soon as the captain gave an order, the soldiers fired. (1)

(Choose the correct alternative to get 'No sooner.....' form of the given sentence.)

Answer: (b) No sooner did the captain give an order than the soldiers fired.

(iii) The teacher said, "The Earth revolves around the Sun." (1)

(Choose the correct alternative to get indirect narration of the given sentence.)

Answer: (a) The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.

(iv) Spot the error and rewrite the correct sentence. (1)

I know a man which is very tall.

Answer: I know a man who is very tall.

Q. 2. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below : (12) [18]

A1. Complete the following sentences with the help of the extract : (2)

Answers:
(a) The formal education that a child gets in school moulds him into a mature, responsible and competent member of society.
(b) School adjustments have long-lasting effects on children's success in life.
(c) A child's interactions with peers have a great influence on his attitude, habits and behaviour.
(d) A child's school adjustments have to rely largely on teachers' values, principles and attitudes.

A2. Develop the flow chart given below : (2)

Children's Adjustment Problems:

• Early school years: being regular and punctual, doing homework and following discipline.
• Later school years: maintaining social relations.
• During adolescence: how to develop and maintain relationship with opposite sex members.
• Peer group expectations: Non-fulfillment causes the members to face rejection from the peers.

A3. Find the facts from the extract and complete the table : (2)

A	B
From the interaction with people in school, a child learns and acquires	(a) Learns how to behave with peers and adults other than family members. (b) acquires values, goals, aspirations and socially approved ways of behaviour.
School experiences teach him	lessons in team spirit, cooperation, healthy competition, goal setting and goal attainment.

A4. Express your views regarding school education in connection with character building : (2)

Answer: School education plays a pivotal role in character building. Beyond academic knowledge, schools provide a structured environment where children learn essential life values like discipline, punctuality, and respect. Interacting with diverse peers teaches tolerance and teamwork. The guidance of teachers helps shape a child's moral compass, turning them into responsible citizens. It is the foundation upon which a person's social and ethical personality is built.

A5. Language Study : (2)

(i) A child spends a major portion of his life in taking formal education : (1)

(Choose the correct alternative that indicates modal auxiliary showing 'obligation.')

Answer: (b) A child must spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.

(ii) A peer group has its own group structure and expectations from its members : (1)

(Choose the correct alternative to get 'not only.... but also' form of the above sentence.)

Answer: (b) A peer group not only has its own group structure but also expectations from its members.

A6. Match the words in column 'A' with their antonyms in column 'B' : (2)

Answers:
(1) early — (e) late
(2) rejection — (a) acceptance
(3) success — (b) failure
(4) anxious — (c) carefree

(B) Summary Writing : (3)

Write a summary of the above extract with a suitable title. Take help of the given points/hints.

Title: The Impact of Schooling on Child Development

School plays a crucial role in a child's life, shaping them into responsible citizens through interactions with teachers and peers. Formal education instills values, discipline, and social skills like teamwork and cooperation. Adjustment problems evolve with age: from punctuality in early years to maintaining social relations and handling peer pressure in adolescence. Peer groups significantly influence a child's attitude and behavior, where meeting group expectations is vital to avoid rejection. Ultimately, school adjustments determine a child's long-term success.

(C) Mind Mapping : (3)

Develop a 'Mind Mapping' frame/design using your ideas/thoughts/concepts to illustrate/develop on the topic : 'Best Sources of Entertainment'.

Answer (Conceptual Layout):

BEST SOURCES OF ENTERTAINMENT
|
---------------------------------------------------------
|

Outdoor

• Sports (Cricket, Football)
• Travel/Trekking
• Gardening

Digital/Media

• Movies/Web Series
• Video Games
• Social Media

Hobbies/Creative

• Reading Books
• Music/Dancing
• Painting

SECTION - II : POETRY

Q. 3. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below : (10) [14]

A1. Rewrite the following sentences as per their occurrence in the extract : (2)

1. Sir Ralph cut the Inchcape Bell.
2. Sir Ralph asked his men to row him to the Inchcape Rock.
3. The Inchcape Bell sank down.
4. Sir Ralph kept his eye on the Inchcape float.

Correct Sequence:
(4) Sir Ralph kept his eye on the Inchcape float.
(2) Sir Ralph asked his men to row him to the Inchcape Rock.
(1) Sir Ralph cut the Inchcape Bell.
(3) The Inchcape Bell sank down.

A2. 'But the Rover's mirth was wickedness': Explain the line in your own words. (2)

Answer: This line means that Sir Ralph the Rover felt a sense of joy or amusement (mirth), but it was not innocent happiness. His joy stemmed from an evil intention. He was happy because he was about to destroy the good work of the Abbot of Aberbrothok by cutting the bell, which would cause suffering to others. His happiness was rooted in malice.

A3. 'Those men who do wrong things, meet with due punishment': Express your point of view on the above statement. (2)

Answer: I strongly agree with this statement. It reflects the law of karma or natural justice, which suggests that our actions have consequences. When a person intentionally harms others, they eventually face retribution for their deeds, often in unexpected ways. Just as the Rover in the poem eventually suffers from the very trap he set for others, people who do wrong cannot escape the repercussions of their actions forever.

A4. Pick out and write the rhyming words from the first stanza and also write its rhyme scheme. (2)

Rhyming Words:
float - boat
Rock - Aberbrothok
Rhyme Scheme: aabb

A5. Compose four poetic lines of your own on – 'A memorable evening on a beautiful beach'. (2)

Answer:
The sun dipped low in a golden hue,
Merging with the ocean's endless blue.
Soft waves whispered secrets to the sand,
As peace descended upon the land.

(B) Appreciation : (4)

Write a poetic appreciation of the poem given below : (Poem: Money by William H. Davies)

Appreciation of the poem 'Money'

About the poem, poet and title: The poem 'Money' is written by William H. Davies, a Welsh poet known for his simple verses about nature and hardship. The title directly addresses the central theme: the true value of wealth versus happiness.

Theme: The poem explores the relationship between money and true happiness. The poet reflects on his time as both a rich man and a poor man. He concludes that when he was rich, he had many false friends, but when he was poor, his friends were few but genuine.

Poetic Style/Language: The language is simple and narrative. The poem consists of five stanzas of four lines each (quatrains) with a regular rhyme scheme (abcb). The imagery is vivid, contrasting the 'false man' knocking at the door with the 'child that holds a trumpet'.

Message/Values: The poem conveys a strong message that money does not buy true happiness. In fact, wealth can attract fake relationships, while poverty often reveals true friendship. We should not judge life solely by material wealth.

Your Opinion: I find the poem very touching and realistic. It serves as a reminder that while money is necessary for survival, the joy derived from genuine human connection is far more valuable.

SECTION - III (WRITING SKILLS)

Q. 4. (A) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities : (4)

(1) Drafting a virtual message :

Imagine, you are Rahul/Jyoti studying in 12th standard. You are going to attend an International Awareness Programme in New Delhi the next week. Draft a message in about 100/150 words to convey the same to your classmate. Give your own reasons to support your message.

Answer:

Date: 11th Dec 2025 Time: 10:30 AM Dear Classmate, I am writing to let you know that I will be away next week as I have been selected to attend an International Awareness Programme in New Delhi. This is a huge opportunity for me to learn about global environmental issues and meet students from different countries. Since I will be missing classes, I would be really grateful if you could take notes for the lectures on Physics and English during my absence. I don't want to fall behind on the syllabus. I will collect them from you once I return on the following Monday. Thanks a lot for your help! Best regards, Rahul

OR

(2) Statement of Purpose :

You wish to pursue your graduation/diploma at a reputed university in any of the streams of your own choice, either arts, commerce, science, management, medicine, agriculture, engineering, law or any other degree you have in your mind. You have fixed your career goals and also have similar background to achieve your dreams. Taking help of the above points/information write a 'Statement of purpose' in about 100/150 words as a part of your application process to get admission at a university of your choice.

Answer:

Statement of Purpose To, The Admission Committee, University of Manchester. Subject: Application for Admission to the B.Sc. in Computer Science Program. From a young age, the logic behind codes and the magic of software solutions have fascinated me. My journey began with a simple curiosity about how video games were created, which evolved into a passionate pursuit of Computer Science. I am writing to express my keen interest in the Undergraduate Computer Science program at your esteemed university. Academically, I have consistently maintained a high standard in Mathematics and Physics during my Higher Secondary Education, securing 95% in the finals. Beyond the classroom, I have developed several small applications using Python and Java, including a library management system for my school. My goal is to become a Software Architect capable of designing scalable systems that solve real-world problems. The University of Manchester, with its world-class research facilities and practical approach to learning, is the perfect environment for me to hone my skills. I am confident that my technical background and dedication make me a suitable candidate for this program. Sincerely, [Your Name]

OR

(3) Group Discussion :

You and your three friends (John, Irfand and Ravina) are selected as a team for group discussion for a reputed T.V. channel. The topic of discussion is 'Importance of English literature'. Write suitable dialogues for each participant giving his/her opinion on the topic.

Answer:

Topic: Importance of English Literature John: Hello everyone. Today we are here to discuss the 'Importance of English Literature'. In my opinion, literature is not just stories; it is a mirror to society. It helps us understand different cultures and histories that we might never experience otherwise. Ravina: I completely agree with you, John. Reading classics like Shakespeare or Dickens transports us to a different era. But more importantly, I feel it builds empathy. When we read about the struggles of characters, we learn to understand human emotions better. Irfand: That’s a valid point, Ravina. I would like to add that English Literature also plays a massive role in improving our language skills. It enriches our vocabulary and teaches us the art of expression. It refines our communication, which is essential in today's global world. John: Yes, Irfand. It also encourages critical thinking. Analyzing poems and novels makes us question things rather than just accepting them. Ravina: True. So, we can conclude that English Literature is vital not just for language learning, but for the holistic development of our personality and our understanding of the world.

Q. 4. (B) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities : (4)

(1) E-mail :

You purchased a 42 inches Smart T.V. four months ago from M.G. Electronics and Appliances. It is not working properly and also it doesn't have good sound and picture quality. The warranty period of the T.V. is still valid. Write an E-mail in about 100/150 words to the shop owner complaining about the problem.

Answer:

To: service@mgelectronics.com Subject: Complaint regarding defective 42-inch Smart TV (Invoice #4589) Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to report a serious issue with the 42-inch Smart TV I purchased from your store, M.G. Electronics and Appliances, on August 10th, 2025. Although the television is only four months old and well within the warranty period, it has started malfunctioning. The picture quality has deteriorated significantly, often appearing pixelated and blurry. Furthermore, the sound output is distorted, and the volume fluctuates automatically, making the viewing experience terrible. I have attached a copy of the purchase receipt and the warranty card with this email. As a loyal customer, I expect better service. I request you to send a technician to inspect the unit at my residence immediately or arrange for a replacement if the defect is internal. Looking forward to a prompt resolution. Sincerely, XYZ [Phone Number]

OR

(2) Report Writing :

Your junior college recently organised a 'Book Reading Competition'. You are the students' representative. Write a report of the competition in about 100/150 words.

Answer:

Grand Success of Book Reading Competition at Model Junior College By: Student Representative Date: 15th Sept 2025, Mumbai Model Junior College organized a 'Book Reading Competition' on 14th September 2025, in the college auditorium to promote the habit of reading among students. The event began at 10:00 AM with the lighting of the lamp by the Principal, Dr. Sharma, who emphasized that "Books are our best friends." Over 50 students from Arts, Science, and Commerce streams participated enthusiastically. The participants were judged on fluency, expression, pronunciation, and voice modulation. The selections ranged from Shakespearean sonnets to modern fiction and inspiring biographies. The panel of judges included senior literature professors. Miss Anjali from the Arts stream won the first prize for her captivating reading of an excerpt from 'Wings of Fire'. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Cultural Secretary. The atmosphere was filled with literary enthusiasm, inspiring many students to pick up a book.

OR

(3) Interview :

Imagine, you have to conduct an interview of a teacher who recently received the Ideal Teacher Award from the state government. With the help of the given table and points, draft questions for an interview.

Answer:

Interview with Mrs. Deshpande (Ideal Teacher Awardee) Interviewer: Good morning, Ma'am. Congratulations on receiving the prestigious Ideal Teacher Award. It is an honor to interview you. 1. Decision: What motivated you to choose teaching as your career path initially? 2. Idols: Who were your role models or idols who inspired your teaching style? 3. Support: How has your family supported you throughout this long journey? 4. Education: Could you tell us briefly about your educational background? 5. Training: What specific training or experiences helped you refine your teaching methods? 6. Success: To whom or what do you attribute this great success? 7. Dream: What is your dream for the future of your students? 8. Goals/Destination: After this achievement, what are your next professional goals? Interviewer: Thank you for your time, Ma'am. You are truly an inspiration.

Q. 4. (C) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities : (4)

(1) Speech :

Imagine you have to deliver a speech on the topic 'Save Earth Save Life' on World Environment Day in your junior college. Draft a speech in about 100/150 words that you wish to deliver before the audience.

Answer:

Save Earth, Save Life Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends, A very good morning to all. Today, as we celebrate World Environment Day, I stand before you to speak on a topic that is not just a slogan but a necessity for our survival: "Save Earth, Save Life." Our planet is the only home we have, yet we are destroying it with pollution, deforestation, and indiscriminate use of resources. We often forget that by harming the Earth, we are harming ourselves. Climate change, melting glaciers, and erratic weather patterns are warnings we cannot ignore. It is high time we take responsibility. Small steps like planting trees, reducing plastic use, and conserving water can make a massive difference. Let us pledge today to be guardians of nature, not its destroyers. Remember, there is no Planet B. If we save the Earth today, we save our future tomorrow. Thank you.

OR

(2) Compering :

Suppose, you are going to compere in a felicitation programme of the meritorious students in H.S.C. Board Examination of your junior college. As a compere, prepare the whole programme script considering the sequence and details of the overall programme.

Answer:

Script for Felicitation Programme 1. Introduction: Good morning to the Respected Principal, Chief Guest, Teachers, Parents, and my dear friends. We have gathered here today for a very special occasion—to celebrate excellence and felicitate our meritorious students of the H.S.C. Board Examination. 2. Lighting of the Lamp: To begin this auspicious event, I request our Honorable Principal and the Chief Guest to light the traditional lamp as a symbol of knowledge and wisdom. *(Pause for lighting)* 3. Welcome Song: Now, I request our college choir to present a welcome song to greet our dignitaries. 4. Introductory Speech: I invite our Vice-Principal to deliver the introductory speech and welcome the guests. 5. Felicitation of Meritorious Students: Now, the moment we have all been waiting for. I request the Chief Guest to come onto the stage to felicitate our toppers. *(Calls out names: "Miss Riya Sharma, 1st Rank...", "Master Aman Gupta, 2nd Rank..." etc.)* Let’s give them a big round of applause! 6. Representative Talks: I would like to invite Miss Riya Sharma, our college topper, to share her journey and tips for success. 7. Chief Guest's Address: May I request our Chief Guest to address the gathering and guide us with his words of wisdom. 8. Vote of Thanks: I call upon the Cultural Secretary to propose the vote of thanks. Thank you all for coming.

OR

(3) Expansion of Ideas :

Expand the following idea in about 100/150 words with the help of the points given below: 'All is well that Ends well'.

Answer:

All is Well that Ends Well The proverb "All is well that ends well" is the title of a famous play by William Shakespeare. It means that if the final outcome of a task or a situation is happy and successful, then the difficulties and problems faced during the process do not matter. The result is what counts the most. Life is a journey full of hurdles. We often face failures, disappointments, and stress while pursuing our goals. For example, a student may struggle throughout the year with difficult subjects, fall ill before exams, or face personal issues. However, if they work hard and eventually secure a distinction in the final results, all the previous pain is forgotten. The joy of success overshadows the struggle. This proverb teaches us optimism. It encourages us not to give up when things go wrong in the middle of a journey. We should focus on the goal. If we persist and achieve a positive conclusion, the journey is deemed a success.

Q. 4. (D) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities : (4)

(1) Review :

You have recently read a book. Write a 'Review' in about 100/150 words of the book with the help of the following points: Title/author, Subject/Story, Language/Style, Benefits/Message.

Answer:

Book Review: Wings of Fire Title and Author: "Wings of Fire" is the autobiography of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, written with Arun Tiwari. Subject/Story: The book narrates the inspiring journey of a young boy from Rameswaram who rose against all odds to become the "Missile Man of India" and eventually the President. It covers his early life, his struggles, his work at ISRO and DRDO, and the launch of the Agni and Prithvi missiles. Language/Style: The language is simple, direct, and highly inspiring. Dr. Kalam’s storytelling is humble yet powerful, making complex scientific achievements accessible to the common reader. Message: The book is a goldmine of inspiration. It teaches us that with determination, hard work, and humility, one can achieve anything. It encourages the youth to dream big and work tirelessly towards their goals. It is a must-read for every student.

OR

(2) Blog :

Write a 'Blog' in a proper format on 'Yoga - A practice for better living' with the help of the following points in about 100/150 words: Importance of Yoga, Keeps body fit, Refreshes soul, Stress buster, Meditation.

Answer:

Yoga: The Key to a Better Life By: [Your Name] | Date: 12th Dec 2025 In today’s fast-paced world, stress and health issues have become part of our daily routine. This is where Yoga comes in as a savior. Yoga is not just a form of exercise; it is a way of life that balances the body, mind, and soul. Importance in Life: Yoga helps in maintaining physical fitness by improving flexibility, muscle strength, and posture. Unlike gym workouts, it works on the internal organs as well. Mental Peace and Stress Buster: Practicing 'Asanas' and 'Pranayama' (breathing exercises) refreshes the soul. It acts as a powerful stress buster, reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity. Meditation, a core part of Yoga, helps in focusing the mind and attaining inner peace. In conclusion, dedicating just 30 minutes a day to Yoga can transform your life. Let's adopt this ancient practice for a healthier and happier future.

OR

(3) Appeal :

Your college has organised a motorcycle rally to make people aware to save paper and save trees. Prepare an 'Appeal' on the topic 'Save Paper, Save Trees' with the help of the following points in about 100/150 words.

Answer:

SAVE TREES, SAVE LIFE! "If you cut a tree, you kill a life. If you save a tree, you save a life." JOIN THE GRAND MOTORCYCLE RALLY! Dear Citizens, Nature is calling for help! Trees are disappearing, and pollution is rising. It is time to act. The Need of the Hour: Every sheet of paper wasted is a part of a tree destroyed. We must reduce paper use and plant more trees to save our planet from global warming. Join us to spread awareness: Our college is organizing a massive Motorcycle Rally to spread this message. Guest of Honour: Mr. Sunderlal Bahuguna (Renowned Environmentalist) Venue: College Main Gate to City Centre Date: Sunday, 20th December 2025 Time: 8:00 AM sharp Let’s Ride for a Green Future! (Organized by: N.S.S. Unit, Model Junior College)

SECTION - IV (LITERARY GENRE - NOVEL)

Q. 5. (A) Complete the activities given below as per the instructions : (4) [16]

(i) Pick out the odd element from each line : (2)

1. Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene, Daniel Defoe, Anthony Burgess.
2. Mystery, Style, Conflict, Character.
3. The turn of the screw, Aphra Behn, Rajmohan's Wife, Jane Eyre.
4. Drama, Novel, Psychology, Poetry.

Answers:
(a) Daniel Defoe (He belongs to the 18th century; the others are modern/20th-century writers).
(b) Mystery (It is a sub-genre; the others are elements of a novel).
(c) Aphra Behn (She is a novelist; the others are names of novels).
(d) Psychology (It is a subject; the others are literary genres).

(ii) Choose the correct alternatives and rewrite the sentences : (2)

1. The novel as a literary genre has a history of about ______ years. [two thousand five hundred, two thousand, five hundred]
2. The new literature written in the 18th century was characterised by ______. [mystery, fantasy, spirit of realism]
3. In ______ novel, the surface meaning is different from the symbolic meaning. [Allegorical, Dystopian, Gothic]
4. ______ has coined the phrase : 'Stream of Consciousness'. [Jane Austen, Virginia Woolf, William James]

Answers:
(a) The novel as a literary genre has a history of about two thousand years.
(b) The new literature written in the 18th century was characterised by spirit of realism.
(c) In Allegorical novel, the surface meaning is different from the symbolic meaning.
(d) William James has coined the phrase : 'Stream of Consciousness'.

(B) Answer in about 50 words the questions given below : (4)

(i) Explain in brief the theme of the extract from 'To Sir, With Love'. (2)

Answer: The central theme of the extract is the student-teacher relationship and the transformation of the students. It showcases the half-yearly report of the Students' Council, where students demonstrate their academic progress, maturity, and organizational skills. It highlights how the students, who were once unruly, have now become responsible and respectful under the guidance of their teacher, Mr. Braithwaite.

(ii) Give the character-sketch of Denham in the extract from 'To Sir, With Love'. (2)

Answer: Denham is a confident, athletic, and outspoken student. He plays a key role in the Council meeting. He is critical of the P.T. syllabus, arguing that it is pointless for physically fit students like himself. He is blunt and fearless in his debate with the teachers but eventually accepts the teacher's explanation with grace, showing his underlying respect and maturity.

(C) Answer the following : (4)

(i) Complete the table highlighting various traits of the following characters in the extract from 'Around the World in Eighty Days'. (2)

Name of the characters	Traits
(1) Aouda	Charming, grateful, loving, noble.
(2) Detective Fix	Suspicious, determined, dutiful, persistent.

(ii) 'We can go around the world in less time by journeying eastward'. Justify it with Fogg's journey in the extract from 'Around the World in Eighty Days'. (in about 50 words) (2)

Answer: Phileas Fogg travelled eastward, towards the sun. By doing so, he shortened each day by four minutes for every degree passed. Across the 360 degrees of the globe, this accumulated to 24 hours. Thus, while he thought he had arrived on Saturday evening, he had actually arrived on Friday, gaining a full day, which allowed him to win the bet.

(D) Answer the questions given below : (4)

(i) Elaborate the following line in the light of the novel 'The Sign of Four'. (2)

"You really are an automaton – a calculating machine."

Answer: Dr. Watson says this to Sherlock Holmes. It highlights Holmes' cold, purely logical, and unemotional approach to life and crime-solving. While Watson admires the beauty of Miss Morstan, Holmes only sees her as a "factor" in a problem. This line underscores the contrast between Watson's emotional nature and Holmes' scientific, detached brilliance.

(ii) Arrange the following incidents in correct sequence as per their occurrence in the extract from the novel 'The Sign of Four'. (2)

1. Miss Morstan showed Holmes the pearls and letter.
2. Miss Morstan discussed her problem with Holmes and Watson.
3. They planned to meet the writer of the letter.
4. Miss Morstan met Holmes and Watson at their house.

Correct Sequence:
(d) Miss Morstan met Holmes and Watson at their house.
(b) Miss Morstan discussed her problem with Holmes and Watson.
(a) Miss Morstan showed Holmes the pearls and letter.
(c) They planned to meet the writer of the letter.