Birth Questions & Answers | Class 11 English | CBSE NCERT

1 marks · mcq

1. Q1. Why had Joe Morgan been walking up and down with short steps for the last hour? (a) He was waiting for a train (b) He was anxiously waiting for the doctor to return (c) He had lost his way in the dark (d) He was exercising after his day's work

Though it was nearly midnight when Andrew reached Bryngower, he found Joe Morgan waiting for him, walking up and down with short steps between the closed surgery and the entrance to the house. At the sight of him the burly driller's face expressed relief. "Eh, Doctor, I'm glad to see you. I been back and forward here this last hour. The missus wants ye — before time, too."

1 marks · mcq

2. Q2. The phrase "before time, too" tells us that (a) the doctor was late (b) the baby had already been born (c) the labour had begun earlier than the expected date (d) Joe arrived too early

Though it was nearly midnight when Andrew reached Bryngower, he found Joe Morgan waiting for him, walking up and down with short steps between the closed surgery and the entrance to the house. At the sight of him the burly driller's face expressed relief. "Eh, Doctor, I'm glad to see you. I been back and forward here this last hour. The missus wants ye — before time, too."

1 marks · mcq

3. Q3. Joe Morgan is described as a "burly driller", which tells us that he is (a) a big, strongly built workman (b) a thin clerk (c) a schoolmaster (d) a clergyman

Though it was nearly midnight when Andrew reached Bryngower, he found Joe Morgan waiting for him, walking up and down with short steps between the closed surgery and the entrance to the house. At the sight of him the burly driller's face expressed relief. "Eh, Doctor, I'm glad to see you. I been back and forward here this last hour. The missus wants ye — before time, too."

1 marks · mcq

4. Q4. At what time did Andrew reach Bryngower? (a) At sunrise (b) At midday (c) At dusk (d) Nearly at midnight

Though it was nearly midnight when Andrew reached Bryngower, he found Joe Morgan waiting for him, walking up and down with short steps between the closed surgery and the entrance to the house. At the sight of him the burly driller's face expressed relief. "Eh, Doctor, I'm glad to see you. I been back and forward here this last hour. The missus wants ye — before time, too."

1 marks · mcq

5. Q5. Joe's face expressing "relief" at the sight of Andrew shows (a) his complete faith in the doctor (b) his dislike of doctors (c) his joy at the birth (d) his tiredness

Though it was nearly midnight when Andrew reached Bryngower, he found Joe Morgan waiting for him, walking up and down with short steps between the closed surgery and the entrance to the house. At the sight of him the burly driller's face expressed relief. "Eh, Doctor, I'm glad to see you. I been back and forward here this last hour. The missus wants ye — before time, too."

1 marks · mcq

6. Q1. Why was Andrew "dull and listless" though usually so perceptive? (a) He was exhausted from his medical practice (b) He was absorbed in his own affairs after a disappointing evening (c) He was afraid of the difficult delivery (d) He was suffering from a fever

Andrew, abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs, told Morgan to wait. He went into the house for his bag, then together they set out for Number 12 Blaina Terrace. The night air was cool and deep with quiet mystery. Usually so perceptive, Andrew now felt dull and listless. He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual, still less that it would influence his whole future in Blaenelly.

1 marks · mcq

7. Q2. The irony in "He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual" is that (a) the call was quite ordinary (b) he had been warned about it (c) the call never happened (d) the night call in fact proved extraordinary and influenced his whole future

Andrew, abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs, told Morgan to wait. He went into the house for his bag, then together they set out for Number 12 Blaina Terrace. The night air was cool and deep with quiet mystery. Usually so perceptive, Andrew now felt dull and listless. He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual, still less that it would influence his whole future in Blaenelly.

1 marks · mcq

8. Q3. The description of the night air as "cool and deep with quiet mystery" creates a mood that is (a) calm yet ominous, hinting the night holds something unusual (b) cheerful and festive (c) noisy and chaotic (d) plainly romantic

Andrew, abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs, told Morgan to wait. He went into the house for his bag, then together they set out for Number 12 Blaina Terrace. The night air was cool and deep with quiet mystery. Usually so perceptive, Andrew now felt dull and listless. He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual, still less that it would influence his whole future in Blaenelly.

1 marks · mcq

9. Q4. Where were Andrew and Joe walking together? (a) To the mining office (b) To the church (c) To the railway station (d) To Number 12 Blaina Terrace

Andrew, abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs, told Morgan to wait. He went into the house for his bag, then together they set out for Number 12 Blaina Terrace. The night air was cool and deep with quiet mystery. Usually so perceptive, Andrew now felt dull and listless. He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual, still less that it would influence his whole future in Blaenelly.

1 marks · mcq

10. Q5. The phrase "abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs" suggests that Andrew had been (a) listening carefully (b) lost in his own thoughts (c) writing a diary (d) asleep on his feet

Andrew, abruptly recalled from the contemplation of his own affairs, told Morgan to wait. He went into the house for his bag, then together they set out for Number 12 Blaina Terrace. The night air was cool and deep with quiet mystery. Usually so perceptive, Andrew now felt dull and listless. He had no premonition that this night call would prove unusual, still less that it would influence his whole future in Blaenelly.

1 marks · mcq

11. Q1. Why did Joe Morgan refuse to enter the house? (a) He had to return to the mine at once (b) He was forbidden to watch deliveries (c) He was too tense and strained to watch the ordeal (d) He wanted to fetch another doctor

The two men walked in silence until they reached the door of Number 12, then Joe drew up short. "I'll not come in," he said, and his voice showed signs of strain. "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us." Inside, a narrow stair led up to a small bedroom, clean but poorly furnished, and lit only by an oil lamp. Here Mrs Morgan's mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and the stout, elderly midwife waited beside the patient, watching Andrew's expression as he moved about the room.

1 marks · mcq

12. Q2. Joe's parting words "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us" reveal (a) his implicit trust in Andrew's skill (b) his anger at the doctor (c) his fear of hospitals (d) his indifference to his wife

The two men walked in silence until they reached the door of Number 12, then Joe drew up short. "I'll not come in," he said, and his voice showed signs of strain. "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us." Inside, a narrow stair led up to a small bedroom, clean but poorly furnished, and lit only by an oil lamp. Here Mrs Morgan's mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and the stout, elderly midwife waited beside the patient, watching Andrew's expression as he moved about the room.

1 marks · mcq

13. Q3. The bedroom, "clean but poorly furnished" and lit only by an oil lamp, shows that the Morgans were (a) a wealthy family (b) careless housekeepers (c) city people (d) a poor but dignified mining family

The two men walked in silence until they reached the door of Number 12, then Joe drew up short. "I'll not come in," he said, and his voice showed signs of strain. "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us." Inside, a narrow stair led up to a small bedroom, clean but poorly furnished, and lit only by an oil lamp. Here Mrs Morgan's mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and the stout, elderly midwife waited beside the patient, watching Andrew's expression as he moved about the room.

1 marks · mcq

14. Q4. Who waited beside the patient inside the house? (a) Only the doctor's assistant (b) The neighbours (c) The Morgans' children (d) Mrs Morgan's mother and the elderly midwife

The two men walked in silence until they reached the door of Number 12, then Joe drew up short. "I'll not come in," he said, and his voice showed signs of strain. "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us." Inside, a narrow stair led up to a small bedroom, clean but poorly furnished, and lit only by an oil lamp. Here Mrs Morgan's mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and the stout, elderly midwife waited beside the patient, watching Andrew's expression as he moved about the room.

1 marks · mcq

15. Q5. The old woman and the midwife watched Andrew's expression as he moved about because (a) they were judging his clothes (b) they could not hear him (c) they were anxious and sought reassurance in his face (d) they were writing a report

The two men walked in silence until they reached the door of Number 12, then Joe drew up short. "I'll not come in," he said, and his voice showed signs of strain. "But, man, I know ye'll do well for us." Inside, a narrow stair led up to a small bedroom, clean but poorly furnished, and lit only by an oil lamp. Here Mrs Morgan's mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and the stout, elderly midwife waited beside the patient, watching Andrew's expression as he moved about the room.

1 marks · mcq

16. Q1. Why did the old woman hurry to offer Andrew a cup of tea? (a) Out of simple hospitality (b) To delay the delivery (c) Because she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later (d) To earn part of his fee

"Let me make you a cup of tea, Doctor, bach," said the former quickly, after a few moments. Andrew smiled faintly. He saw that the old woman, wise in experience, realised there must be a period of waiting that, she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later. "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away." Down in the kitchen he drank the tea which she gave him. Overwrought as he was, he knew he could not snatch even an hour's sleep if he went home. He knew, too, that the case here would demand all his attention. A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him. He decided to remain until everything was over.

1 marks · mcq

17. Q2. Andrew's "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away" shows his (a) irritation at the delay (b) kindness and reassuring sense of duty (c) greed for fees (d) hurry to leave

"Let me make you a cup of tea, Doctor, bach," said the former quickly, after a few moments. Andrew smiled faintly. He saw that the old woman, wise in experience, realised there must be a period of waiting that, she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later. "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away." Down in the kitchen he drank the tea which she gave him. Overwrought as he was, he knew he could not snatch even an hour's sleep if he went home. He knew, too, that the case here would demand all his attention. A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him. He decided to remain until everything was over.

1 marks · mcq

18. Q3. Andrew decided to remain until everything was over because (a) the case would demand all his attention and he could not sleep at home anyway (b) the family ordered him to stay (c) it was raining (d) the next train was late

"Let me make you a cup of tea, Doctor, bach," said the former quickly, after a few moments. Andrew smiled faintly. He saw that the old woman, wise in experience, realised there must be a period of waiting that, she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later. "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away." Down in the kitchen he drank the tea which she gave him. Overwrought as he was, he knew he could not snatch even an hour's sleep if he went home. He knew, too, that the case here would demand all his attention. A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him. He decided to remain until everything was over.

1 marks · mcq

19. Q4. The word "bach", used by the old woman while addressing Andrew, is (a) a medical title (b) a surname (c) an insult (d) a Welsh term of endearment

"Let me make you a cup of tea, Doctor, bach," said the former quickly, after a few moments. Andrew smiled faintly. He saw that the old woman, wise in experience, realised there must be a period of waiting that, she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later. "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away." Down in the kitchen he drank the tea which she gave him. Overwrought as he was, he knew he could not snatch even an hour's sleep if he went home. He knew, too, that the case here would demand all his attention. A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him. He decided to remain until everything was over.

1 marks · mcq

20. Q5. "A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him" means that Andrew felt (a) a strange heaviness and numbness of mood (b) sudden joy (c) great hunger (d) fierce energy

"Let me make you a cup of tea, Doctor, bach," said the former quickly, after a few moments. Andrew smiled faintly. He saw that the old woman, wise in experience, realised there must be a period of waiting that, she was afraid he would leave the case, saying he would return later. "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away." Down in the kitchen he drank the tea which she gave him. Overwrought as he was, he knew he could not snatch even an hour's sleep if he went home. He knew, too, that the case here would demand all his attention. A queer lethargy of spirit came upon him. He decided to remain until everything was over.

1 marks · mcq

21. Q1. What was the "another sound" Andrew heard in the stillness? (a) The ticking of the wall clock (b) The rustle of a cinder in the grate (c) The nurse calling from the landing (d) Joe Morgan's footsteps pacing in the street outside

An hour later he went upstairs again, noted the progress made, came down once more, sat by the kitchen fire. It was still, except for the rustle of a cinder in the grate and the slow tick-tock of the wall clock. No, there was another sound — the beat of Morgan's footsteps as he paced in the street outside. The old woman opposite him sat in her black dress, quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face.

1 marks · mcq

22. Q2. The rustling cinder, the slow tick-tock of the clock and the pacing footsteps together create an atmosphere of (a) suspenseful waiting (b) noisy confusion (c) drunken revelry (d) cheerful industry

An hour later he went upstairs again, noted the progress made, came down once more, sat by the kitchen fire. It was still, except for the rustle of a cinder in the grate and the slow tick-tock of the wall clock. No, there was another sound — the beat of Morgan's footsteps as he paced in the street outside. The old woman opposite him sat in her black dress, quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face.

1 marks · mcq

23. Q3. The old woman sat "quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face." This suggests (a) her rudeness (b) that she was asleep (c) her blindness (d) her intense anxiety and watchfulness for reassurance

An hour later he went upstairs again, noted the progress made, came down once more, sat by the kitchen fire. It was still, except for the rustle of a cinder in the grate and the slow tick-tock of the wall clock. No, there was another sound — the beat of Morgan's footsteps as he paced in the street outside. The old woman opposite him sat in her black dress, quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face.

1 marks · mcq

24. Q4. The writer builds this scene mainly through (a) auditory imagery of small sounds (b) hyperbole (c) puns (d) alliteration

An hour later he went upstairs again, noted the progress made, came down once more, sat by the kitchen fire. It was still, except for the rustle of a cinder in the grate and the slow tick-tock of the wall clock. No, there was another sound — the beat of Morgan's footsteps as he paced in the street outside. The old woman opposite him sat in her black dress, quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face.

1 marks · mcq

25. Q5. Joe Morgan's pacing in the street outside shows (a) his impatience with the doctor (b) that he is on his way to work (c) his helpless anxiety for his wife (d) his habit of evening exercise

An hour later he went upstairs again, noted the progress made, came down once more, sat by the kitchen fire. It was still, except for the rustle of a cinder in the grate and the slow tick-tock of the wall clock. No, there was another sound — the beat of Morgan's footsteps as he paced in the street outside. The old woman opposite him sat in her black dress, quite motionless, her eyes strangely alive and wise, probing, never leaving his face.

1 marks · mcq

26. Q1. Which of these marriages was NOT cited by Andrew as a dismal failure? (a) Bramwell's (b) Edward Page's (c) Denny's (d) Joe Morgan's

His thoughts were heavy, muddled. The episode he had witnessed at Cardiff station still obsessed him morbidly. He thought of Bramwell, foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly, of Edward Page, bound to the shrewish Blodwen, of Denny, living unhappily, apart from his wife. His reason told him that all these marriages were dismal failures. It was a conclusion which, in his present state, made him wince. He wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state; yes, he could not otherwise consider it with the image of Christine before him.

1 marks · mcq

27. Q2. The conclusion that all these marriages were dismal failures made Andrew "wince" because (a) he hated all the men (b) he had never met a married couple (c) he wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state with Christine before him (d) he was proud of his logic

His thoughts were heavy, muddled. The episode he had witnessed at Cardiff station still obsessed him morbidly. He thought of Bramwell, foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly, of Edward Page, bound to the shrewish Blodwen, of Denny, living unhappily, apart from his wife. His reason told him that all these marriages were dismal failures. It was a conclusion which, in his present state, made him wince. He wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state; yes, he could not otherwise consider it with the image of Christine before him.

1 marks · mcq

28. Q3. According to Andrew's reflections, Bramwell was (a) happily married (b) a famous surgeon (c) Denny's brother (d) foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly

His thoughts were heavy, muddled. The episode he had witnessed at Cardiff station still obsessed him morbidly. He thought of Bramwell, foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly, of Edward Page, bound to the shrewish Blodwen, of Denny, living unhappily, apart from his wife. His reason told him that all these marriages were dismal failures. It was a conclusion which, in his present state, made him wince. He wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state; yes, he could not otherwise consider it with the image of Christine before him.

1 marks · mcq

29. Q4. The phrase "an idyllic state" means (a) a state of chaos (b) a legal bond only (c) an ideal, blissful condition (d) an illness

His thoughts were heavy, muddled. The episode he had witnessed at Cardiff station still obsessed him morbidly. He thought of Bramwell, foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly, of Edward Page, bound to the shrewish Blodwen, of Denny, living unhappily, apart from his wife. His reason told him that all these marriages were dismal failures. It was a conclusion which, in his present state, made him wince. He wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state; yes, he could not otherwise consider it with the image of Christine before him.

1 marks · mcq

30. Q5. The episode at Cardiff station "still obsessed him morbidly", that is, it (a) was easily forgotten (b) made him laugh aloud (c) concerned his medical studies (d) occupied his mind in an unhealthy, gloomy way

His thoughts were heavy, muddled. The episode he had witnessed at Cardiff station still obsessed him morbidly. He thought of Bramwell, foolishly devoted to a woman who deceived him sordidly, of Edward Page, bound to the shrewish Blodwen, of Denny, living unhappily, apart from his wife. His reason told him that all these marriages were dismal failures. It was a conclusion which, in his present state, made him wince. He wished to consider marriage as an idyllic state; yes, he could not otherwise consider it with the image of Christine before him.

1 marks · mcq

31. Q1. Whose eyes "shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion"? (a) Susan Morgan's (b) The midwife's (c) The old woman's (d) Christine's

Her eyes, shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion. It was the conflict between his level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart which left him resentful and confused. He let his chin sink upon his chest, stretched out his legs, stared broodingly into the fire. He remained like this so long, and his thoughts were so filled with Christine, that he started when the old woman opposite suddenly addressed him. Her meditation had pursued a different course.

1 marks · mcq

32. Q2. The "conflict" that left Andrew resentful and confused was between his (a) two patients (b) duty to Joe and duty to Susan (c) level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart (d) medical training and his religion

Her eyes, shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion. It was the conflict between his level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart which left him resentful and confused. He let his chin sink upon his chest, stretched out his legs, stared broodingly into the fire. He remained like this so long, and his thoughts were so filled with Christine, that he started when the old woman opposite suddenly addressed him. Her meditation had pursued a different course.

1 marks · mcq

33. Q3. Andrew "started" when the old woman suddenly addressed him because (a) he was angry (b) her voice was very loud (c) he was frightened of her (d) he had been so lost in thoughts of Christine that her words startled him

Her eyes, shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion. It was the conflict between his level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart which left him resentful and confused. He let his chin sink upon his chest, stretched out his legs, stared broodingly into the fire. He remained like this so long, and his thoughts were so filled with Christine, that he started when the old woman opposite suddenly addressed him. Her meditation had pursued a different course.

1 marks · mcq

34. Q4. The posture described — chin sunk upon his chest, legs stretched out, staring broodingly into the fire — depicts (a) a man deep in gloomy thought (b) a man praying (c) a man asleep (d) a doctor operating

Her eyes, shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion. It was the conflict between his level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart which left him resentful and confused. He let his chin sink upon his chest, stretched out his legs, stared broodingly into the fire. He remained like this so long, and his thoughts were so filled with Christine, that he started when the old woman opposite suddenly addressed him. Her meditation had pursued a different course.

1 marks · mcq

35. Q5. "Her meditation had pursued a different course" implies that the old woman had been thinking about (a) Christine (b) marriage in general (c) her late husband (d) something far removed from Andrew's thoughts of Christine and marriage

Her eyes, shining towards him, admitted no other conclusion. It was the conflict between his level, doubting mind and his overflowing heart which left him resentful and confused. He let his chin sink upon his chest, stretched out his legs, stared broodingly into the fire. He remained like this so long, and his thoughts were so filled with Christine, that he started when the old woman opposite suddenly addressed him. Her meditation had pursued a different course.

1 marks · mcq

36. Q1. What condition had Susan Morgan laid down regarding the chloroform? (a) It should be given at dawn (b) It should be doubled in quantity (c) It should be given only after the birth (d) It should not be given if it would harm the baby

"Susan said not to give her the chloroform if it would harm the baby. She's awful set upon this child, Doctor, bach." Her old eyes warmed at a sudden thought. She added in a low tone: "Ay, we all are, I fancy." He collected himself with an effort. "It won't do any harm, the anaesthetic," he said kindly. "They'll be all right." Here the nurse's voice was heard calling from the top landing. Andrew glanced at the clock, which now showed half-past three. He rose and went up to the bedroom. He perceived that he might now begin his work.

1 marks · mcq

37. Q2. The old woman's low-toned "Ay, we all are, I fancy" reveals that (a) the longing for the child was shared by the whole family (b) she dislikes children (c) she is thinking of another patient (d) she wants to sleep

"Susan said not to give her the chloroform if it would harm the baby. She's awful set upon this child, Doctor, bach." Her old eyes warmed at a sudden thought. She added in a low tone: "Ay, we all are, I fancy." He collected himself with an effort. "It won't do any harm, the anaesthetic," he said kindly. "They'll be all right." Here the nurse's voice was heard calling from the top landing. Andrew glanced at the clock, which now showed half-past three. He rose and went up to the bedroom. He perceived that he might now begin his work.

1 marks · mcq

38. Q3. How does Andrew respond to the grandmother's anxiety? (a) He laughs at her (b) He ignores her completely (c) He refuses to speak (d) He kindly reassures her that the anaesthetic will do no harm and both will be all right

"Susan said not to give her the chloroform if it would harm the baby. She's awful set upon this child, Doctor, bach." Her old eyes warmed at a sudden thought. She added in a low tone: "Ay, we all are, I fancy." He collected himself with an effort. "It won't do any harm, the anaesthetic," he said kindly. "They'll be all right." Here the nurse's voice was heard calling from the top landing. Andrew glanced at the clock, which now showed half-past three. He rose and went up to the bedroom. He perceived that he might now begin his work.

1 marks · mcq

39. Q4. The clock showed half-past three when (a) the child was born (b) Joe came indoors (c) the nurse called from the landing and Andrew went up to begin his work (d) the doctor fell asleep

"Susan said not to give her the chloroform if it would harm the baby. She's awful set upon this child, Doctor, bach." Her old eyes warmed at a sudden thought. She added in a low tone: "Ay, we all are, I fancy." He collected himself with an effort. "It won't do any harm, the anaesthetic," he said kindly. "They'll be all right." Here the nurse's voice was heard calling from the top landing. Andrew glanced at the clock, which now showed half-past three. He rose and went up to the bedroom. He perceived that he might now begin his work.

1 marks · mcq

40. Q5. "She's awful set upon this child" means that Susan is (a) sadly disappointed (b) bitterly opposed to the child (c) afraid of the delivery (d) determined to have this child at all costs

"Susan said not to give her the chloroform if it would harm the baby. She's awful set upon this child, Doctor, bach." Her old eyes warmed at a sudden thought. She added in a low tone: "Ay, we all are, I fancy." He collected himself with an effort. "It won't do any harm, the anaesthetic," he said kindly. "They'll be all right." Here the nurse's voice was heard calling from the top landing. Andrew glanced at the clock, which now showed half-past three. He rose and went up to the bedroom. He perceived that he might now begin his work.

1 marks · mcq

41. Q1. What was the condition of the child at birth? (a) Healthy and crying (b) Weak but breathing (c) Injured during delivery (d) Lifeless and still

An hour elapsed. It was a long, harsh struggle. Then, as the first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind, the child was born, lifeless. As he gazed at the still form a shiver of horror passed over Andrew. After all that he had promised! His face, heated with his own exertions, chilled suddenly. He hesitated, torn between his desire to attempt to resuscitate the child, and his obligation towards the mother, who was herself in a desperate state. The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously.

1 marks · mcq

42. Q2. "After all that he had promised!" Andrew thinks this because (a) he had promised Joe a fee receipt (b) the nurse had asked for a raise (c) Joe's trust in him had raised hopes that now seemed betrayed (d) he had promised Christine a visit

An hour elapsed. It was a long, harsh struggle. Then, as the first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind, the child was born, lifeless. As he gazed at the still form a shiver of horror passed over Andrew. After all that he had promised! His face, heated with his own exertions, chilled suddenly. He hesitated, torn between his desire to attempt to resuscitate the child, and his obligation towards the mother, who was herself in a desperate state. The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously.

1 marks · mcq

43. Q3. The dilemma that Andrew "did not solve consciously" was between (a) telling the family or hiding the truth (b) staying or leaving (c) two medicines (d) his desire to resuscitate the child and his obligation towards the desperate mother

An hour elapsed. It was a long, harsh struggle. Then, as the first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind, the child was born, lifeless. As he gazed at the still form a shiver of horror passed over Andrew. After all that he had promised! His face, heated with his own exertions, chilled suddenly. He hesitated, torn between his desire to attempt to resuscitate the child, and his obligation towards the mother, who was herself in a desperate state. The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously.

1 marks · mcq

44. Q4. "The first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind" indicates that (a) it was now early morning (b) night had just begun (c) there was a storm (d) the blind was new

An hour elapsed. It was a long, harsh struggle. Then, as the first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind, the child was born, lifeless. As he gazed at the still form a shiver of horror passed over Andrew. After all that he had promised! His face, heated with his own exertions, chilled suddenly. He hesitated, torn between his desire to attempt to resuscitate the child, and his obligation towards the mother, who was herself in a desperate state. The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously.

1 marks · mcq

45. Q5. A "shiver of horror passed over" Andrew as he gazed at the still form because (a) he felt cold in the room (b) he was afraid of the dark (c) he had never seen a baby before (d) the lifeless child, after all the hopes placed on him, filled him with dread

An hour elapsed. It was a long, harsh struggle. Then, as the first streaks of dawn strayed past the broken edges of the blind, the child was born, lifeless. As he gazed at the still form a shiver of horror passed over Andrew. After all that he had promised! His face, heated with his own exertions, chilled suddenly. He hesitated, torn between his desire to attempt to resuscitate the child, and his obligation towards the mother, who was herself in a desperate state. The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously.

1 marks · mcq

46. Q1. What did Andrew do first after handing the child to the nurse? (a) He began resuscitating the child (b) He telephoned for help (c) He turned to saving Susan Morgan (d) He comforted the old woman

Blindly, instinctively, he gave the child to the nurse and turned his attention to Susan Morgan who now lay collapsed, almost pulseless, and not yet out of the ether, upon her side. His haste was desperate, a frantic race against her ebbing strength. It took him only an instant to smash a glass ampule and inject the medicine. Then he flung down the hypodermic syringe and worked unsparingly to restore the flaccid woman. After a few minutes of feverish effort, her heart strengthened; he saw that he might safely leave her. He swung round, in his shirt sleeves, his hair sticking to his damp brow. "Where's the child?"

1 marks · mcq

47. Q2. The effort is called "a frantic race against her ebbing strength" because (a) Susan was walking away (b) her life was draining away and every second counted (c) Andrew was racing another doctor (d) the tide was coming in

Blindly, instinctively, he gave the child to the nurse and turned his attention to Susan Morgan who now lay collapsed, almost pulseless, and not yet out of the ether, upon her side. His haste was desperate, a frantic race against her ebbing strength. It took him only an instant to smash a glass ampule and inject the medicine. Then he flung down the hypodermic syringe and worked unsparingly to restore the flaccid woman. After a few minutes of feverish effort, her heart strengthened; he saw that he might safely leave her. He swung round, in his shirt sleeves, his hair sticking to his damp brow. "Where's the child?"

1 marks · mcq

48. Q3. Andrew knew he might "safely leave" Susan only after (a) she spoke to him (b) the nurse took over (c) the child cried (d) her heart strengthened

Blindly, instinctively, he gave the child to the nurse and turned his attention to Susan Morgan who now lay collapsed, almost pulseless, and not yet out of the ether, upon her side. His haste was desperate, a frantic race against her ebbing strength. It took him only an instant to smash a glass ampule and inject the medicine. Then he flung down the hypodermic syringe and worked unsparingly to restore the flaccid woman. After a few minutes of feverish effort, her heart strengthened; he saw that he might safely leave her. He swung round, in his shirt sleeves, his hair sticking to his damp brow. "Where's the child?"

1 marks · mcq

49. Q4. The closing words "Where's the child?" show that (a) Andrew had forgotten his bag (b) having saved the mother, he turns at once to the other patient (c) he wants to go home (d) the child has been taken away

Blindly, instinctively, he gave the child to the nurse and turned his attention to Susan Morgan who now lay collapsed, almost pulseless, and not yet out of the ether, upon her side. His haste was desperate, a frantic race against her ebbing strength. It took him only an instant to smash a glass ampule and inject the medicine. Then he flung down the hypodermic syringe and worked unsparingly to restore the flaccid woman. After a few minutes of feverish effort, her heart strengthened; he saw that he might safely leave her. He swung round, in his shirt sleeves, his hair sticking to his damp brow. "Where's the child?"

1 marks · mcq

50. Q5. This extract reveals Andrew as a doctor of (a) hesitation and delay (b) greed and vanity (c) panic and helplessness (d) swift decision, skill and dedication

Blindly, instinctively, he gave the child to the nurse and turned his attention to Susan Morgan who now lay collapsed, almost pulseless, and not yet out of the ether, upon her side. His haste was desperate, a frantic race against her ebbing strength. It took him only an instant to smash a glass ampule and inject the medicine. Then he flung down the hypodermic syringe and worked unsparingly to restore the flaccid woman. After a few minutes of feverish effort, her heart strengthened; he saw that he might safely leave her. He swung round, in his shirt sleeves, his hair sticking to his damp brow. "Where's the child?"

1 marks · mcq

51. Q1. What did the whiteness of the child's body indicate to Andrew? (a) Peaceful sleep (b) A skin disease (c) That the child was cold (d) Asphyxia pallida — suffocation through lack of oxygen

The midwife made a frightened gesture. She had placed it beneath the bed. In a flash Andrew knelt down. Fishing amongst the sodden newspapers below the bed, he pulled out the child. A boy, perfectly formed. The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow. The cord, hastily slashed, lay like a broken stem. The skin was of a lovely texture, smooth and tender. The head lolled on the thin neck. The limbs seemed boneless. Still kneeling, Andrew stared at the child with a haggard frown. The whiteness meant only one thing: asphyxia pallida, and his mind, unnaturally tense, raced back to a case he once had seen in the Samaritan, to the treatment that had been used. Instantly he was on his feet.

1 marks · mcq

52. Q2. Where was the child when Andrew found it? (a) In the nurse's arms (b) In the cradle (c) On the bed beside Susan (d) Beneath the bed, among the sodden newspapers

The midwife made a frightened gesture. She had placed it beneath the bed. In a flash Andrew knelt down. Fishing amongst the sodden newspapers below the bed, he pulled out the child. A boy, perfectly formed. The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow. The cord, hastily slashed, lay like a broken stem. The skin was of a lovely texture, smooth and tender. The head lolled on the thin neck. The limbs seemed boneless. Still kneeling, Andrew stared at the child with a haggard frown. The whiteness meant only one thing: asphyxia pallida, and his mind, unnaturally tense, raced back to a case he once had seen in the Samaritan, to the treatment that had been used. Instantly he was on his feet.

1 marks · mcq

53. Q3. Andrew's mind raced back to "a case he once had seen in the Samaritan" because (a) he had trained there (b) the treatment used in that case could now save the child (c) he wanted to phone a friend (d) the Samaritan was nearby

The midwife made a frightened gesture. She had placed it beneath the bed. In a flash Andrew knelt down. Fishing amongst the sodden newspapers below the bed, he pulled out the child. A boy, perfectly formed. The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow. The cord, hastily slashed, lay like a broken stem. The skin was of a lovely texture, smooth and tender. The head lolled on the thin neck. The limbs seemed boneless. Still kneeling, Andrew stared at the child with a haggard frown. The whiteness meant only one thing: asphyxia pallida, and his mind, unnaturally tense, raced back to a case he once had seen in the Samaritan, to the treatment that had been used. Instantly he was on his feet.

1 marks · mcq

54. Q4. "The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow" is an example of (a) a metaphor (b) hyperbole (c) a simile (d) a pun

The midwife made a frightened gesture. She had placed it beneath the bed. In a flash Andrew knelt down. Fishing amongst the sodden newspapers below the bed, he pulled out the child. A boy, perfectly formed. The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow. The cord, hastily slashed, lay like a broken stem. The skin was of a lovely texture, smooth and tender. The head lolled on the thin neck. The limbs seemed boneless. Still kneeling, Andrew stared at the child with a haggard frown. The whiteness meant only one thing: asphyxia pallida, and his mind, unnaturally tense, raced back to a case he once had seen in the Samaritan, to the treatment that had been used. Instantly he was on his feet.

1 marks · mcq

55. Q5. The child that Andrew pulled out was (a) a girl (b) one of twins (c) deformed (d) a boy, perfectly formed

The midwife made a frightened gesture. She had placed it beneath the bed. In a flash Andrew knelt down. Fishing amongst the sodden newspapers below the bed, he pulled out the child. A boy, perfectly formed. The limp, warm body was white and soft as tallow. The cord, hastily slashed, lay like a broken stem. The skin was of a lovely texture, smooth and tender. The head lolled on the thin neck. The limbs seemed boneless. Still kneeling, Andrew stared at the child with a haggard frown. The whiteness meant only one thing: asphyxia pallida, and his mind, unnaturally tense, raced back to a case he once had seen in the Samaritan, to the treatment that had been used. Instantly he was on his feet.

1 marks · mcq

56. Q1. What was the "special method of respiration" that Andrew used? (a) Mouth-to-mouth breathing (b) Injecting a stimulant (c) Rubbing with scented oil (d) Alternate plunging of the child into icy and steaming water

"Get me hot water and cold water," he threw out to the nurse. "And basins too. Quick! Quick!" "But, Doctor—" she faltered, her eyes on the pallid body of the child. "Quick!" he shouted. Snatching a blanket, he laid the child upon it and began the special method of respiration. The basins arrived, the ewer, the big iron kettle. Frantically he splashed cold water into one basin; into the other he mixed water as hot as his hand could bear. Then, like some crazy juggler, he hurried the child between the two, now plunging it into the icy, now into the steaming bath. Fifteen minutes passed. Sweat was now running into Andrew's eyes, blinding him. One of his sleeves hung down, dripping. His breath came pantingly. But no breath came from the lax body of the child.

1 marks · mcq

57. Q2. The author compares Andrew to "some crazy juggler" in order to stress (a) Andrew's skill at juggling (b) the nurse's laughter (c) the child's playfulness (d) the frantic speed of the treatment

"Get me hot water and cold water," he threw out to the nurse. "And basins too. Quick! Quick!" "But, Doctor—" she faltered, her eyes on the pallid body of the child. "Quick!" he shouted. Snatching a blanket, he laid the child upon it and began the special method of respiration. The basins arrived, the ewer, the big iron kettle. Frantically he splashed cold water into one basin; into the other he mixed water as hot as his hand could bear. Then, like some crazy juggler, he hurried the child between the two, now plunging it into the icy, now into the steaming bath. Fifteen minutes passed. Sweat was now running into Andrew's eyes, blinding him. One of his sleeves hung down, dripping. His breath came pantingly. But no breath came from the lax body of the child.

1 marks · mcq

58. Q3. The details of sweat running into his eyes, a dripping sleeve and panting breath convey (a) the intense physical strain of fifteen minutes' effort (b) Andrew's carelessness (c) the heat of the kitchen fire (d) the smallness of the room

"Get me hot water and cold water," he threw out to the nurse. "And basins too. Quick! Quick!" "But, Doctor—" she faltered, her eyes on the pallid body of the child. "Quick!" he shouted. Snatching a blanket, he laid the child upon it and began the special method of respiration. The basins arrived, the ewer, the big iron kettle. Frantically he splashed cold water into one basin; into the other he mixed water as hot as his hand could bear. Then, like some crazy juggler, he hurried the child between the two, now plunging it into the icy, now into the steaming bath. Fifteen minutes passed. Sweat was now running into Andrew's eyes, blinding him. One of his sleeves hung down, dripping. His breath came pantingly. But no breath came from the lax body of the child.

1 marks · mcq

59. Q4. The closing sentence "But no breath came from the lax body of the child" creates (a) relief (b) humour (c) suspense, for the effort still seems to have failed (d) a happy ending

"Get me hot water and cold water," he threw out to the nurse. "And basins too. Quick! Quick!" "But, Doctor—" she faltered, her eyes on the pallid body of the child. "Quick!" he shouted. Snatching a blanket, he laid the child upon it and began the special method of respiration. The basins arrived, the ewer, the big iron kettle. Frantically he splashed cold water into one basin; into the other he mixed water as hot as his hand could bear. Then, like some crazy juggler, he hurried the child between the two, now plunging it into the icy, now into the steaming bath. Fifteen minutes passed. Sweat was now running into Andrew's eyes, blinding him. One of his sleeves hung down, dripping. His breath came pantingly. But no breath came from the lax body of the child.

1 marks · mcq

60. Q5. The repeated imperatives "Quick! Quick!" show Andrew's (a) politeness (b) patience (c) fear of the midwife (d) urgency and command of the situation

"Get me hot water and cold water," he threw out to the nurse. "And basins too. Quick! Quick!" "But, Doctor—" she faltered, her eyes on the pallid body of the child. "Quick!" he shouted. Snatching a blanket, he laid the child upon it and began the special method of respiration. The basins arrived, the ewer, the big iron kettle. Frantically he splashed cold water into one basin; into the other he mixed water as hot as his hand could bear. Then, like some crazy juggler, he hurried the child between the two, now plunging it into the icy, now into the steaming bath. Fifteen minutes passed. Sweat was now running into Andrew's eyes, blinding him. One of his sleeves hung down, dripping. His breath came pantingly. But no breath came from the lax body of the child.

1 marks · mcq

61. Q1. Which phrase best describes Andrew's feelings at this point? (a) Calm confidence in his treatment (b) Relief that the mother was safe (c) Anger at the midwife's interference (d) A desperate sense of defeat and raging hopelessness

A desperate sense of defeat pressed on him, a raging hopelessness. He felt the midwife watching him in stark consternation, while there, pressed back against the wall where she had all the time remained — her hand pressed to her throat, uttering no sound, her eyes burning upon him — was the old woman. He remembered her longing for a grandchild, as great as had been her daughter's longing for this child. All dashed away now; futile, beyond remedy... The floor was now a draggled mess. Stumbling over a sopping towel, Andrew almost dropped the child, which was now wet and slippery in his hands, like a strange, white fish.

1 marks · mcq

62. Q2. What added poignancy to Andrew's sense of failure? (a) The mess on the floor (b) The lack of medicines (c) The midwife's incompetence (d) The memory of the old woman's longing for a grandchild

A desperate sense of defeat pressed on him, a raging hopelessness. He felt the midwife watching him in stark consternation, while there, pressed back against the wall where she had all the time remained — her hand pressed to her throat, uttering no sound, her eyes burning upon him — was the old woman. He remembered her longing for a grandchild, as great as had been her daughter's longing for this child. All dashed away now; futile, beyond remedy... The floor was now a draggled mess. Stumbling over a sopping towel, Andrew almost dropped the child, which was now wet and slippery in his hands, like a strange, white fish.

1 marks · mcq

63. Q3. The simile "like a strange, white fish" emphasises (a) the beauty of the child (b) the child's limp, wet, slippery lifelessness (c) the temperature of the water (d) Andrew's love of fishing

A desperate sense of defeat pressed on him, a raging hopelessness. He felt the midwife watching him in stark consternation, while there, pressed back against the wall where she had all the time remained — her hand pressed to her throat, uttering no sound, her eyes burning upon him — was the old woman. He remembered her longing for a grandchild, as great as had been her daughter's longing for this child. All dashed away now; futile, beyond remedy... The floor was now a draggled mess. Stumbling over a sopping towel, Andrew almost dropped the child, which was now wet and slippery in his hands, like a strange, white fish.

1 marks · mcq

64. Q4. The word "consternation", describing how the midwife watched him, means (a) cheerful interest (b) anger (c) amazement and dismay (d) indifference

A desperate sense of defeat pressed on him, a raging hopelessness. He felt the midwife watching him in stark consternation, while there, pressed back against the wall where she had all the time remained — her hand pressed to her throat, uttering no sound, her eyes burning upon him — was the old woman. He remembered her longing for a grandchild, as great as had been her daughter's longing for this child. All dashed away now; futile, beyond remedy... The floor was now a draggled mess. Stumbling over a sopping towel, Andrew almost dropped the child, which was now wet and slippery in his hands, like a strange, white fish.

1 marks · mcq

65. Q5. The old woman, "pressed back against the wall... uttering no sound, her hand pressed to her throat" throughout the ordeal, shows (a) her silent, suffering suspense (b) her indifference (c) that she was asleep (d) her anger at Andrew

A desperate sense of defeat pressed on him, a raging hopelessness. He felt the midwife watching him in stark consternation, while there, pressed back against the wall where she had all the time remained — her hand pressed to her throat, uttering no sound, her eyes burning upon him — was the old woman. He remembered her longing for a grandchild, as great as had been her daughter's longing for this child. All dashed away now; futile, beyond remedy... The floor was now a draggled mess. Stumbling over a sopping towel, Andrew almost dropped the child, which was now wet and slippery in his hands, like a strange, white fish.

1 marks · mcq

66. Q1. Why did Andrew not heed the midwife's words "It's stillborn"? (a) He knew she was unqualified to judge, and he persisted in one last effort (b) He was too exhausted to listen (c) He agreed with her (d) He wanted to comfort her

"For mercy's sake, Doctor," whimpered the midwife. "It's stillborn." Andrew did not heed her. Beaten, despairing, having laboured in vain for half an hour, he still persisted in one last effort, rubbing the child with a rough towel, crushing and releasing the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that limp body. And then, as by a miracle, the pigmy chest, which his hands enclosed, gave a short, convulsive heave, another... and another... Andrew turned giddy. The sense of life, springing beneath his fingers after all that unavailing striving, was so exquisite it almost made him faint. He redoubled his efforts feverishly. The child was gasping now, deeper and deeper.

1 marks · mcq

67. Q2. The revival came "as by a miracle", but in truth it was the result of (a) divine intervention alone (b) the midwife's prayers (c) pure chance (d) Andrew's persistent efforts — the rubbing and the crushing and releasing of the little chest

"For mercy's sake, Doctor," whimpered the midwife. "It's stillborn." Andrew did not heed her. Beaten, despairing, having laboured in vain for half an hour, he still persisted in one last effort, rubbing the child with a rough towel, crushing and releasing the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that limp body. And then, as by a miracle, the pigmy chest, which his hands enclosed, gave a short, convulsive heave, another... and another... Andrew turned giddy. The sense of life, springing beneath his fingers after all that unavailing striving, was so exquisite it almost made him faint. He redoubled his efforts feverishly. The child was gasping now, deeper and deeper.

1 marks · mcq

68. Q3. Andrew turned giddy when the child's chest heaved because (a) he was ill (b) the room was hot (c) he had been drinking (d) the sense of life springing beneath his fingers after so much unavailing striving was almost unbearably exquisite

"For mercy's sake, Doctor," whimpered the midwife. "It's stillborn." Andrew did not heed her. Beaten, despairing, having laboured in vain for half an hour, he still persisted in one last effort, rubbing the child with a rough towel, crushing and releasing the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that limp body. And then, as by a miracle, the pigmy chest, which his hands enclosed, gave a short, convulsive heave, another... and another... Andrew turned giddy. The sense of life, springing beneath his fingers after all that unavailing striving, was so exquisite it almost made him faint. He redoubled his efforts feverishly. The child was gasping now, deeper and deeper.

1 marks · mcq

69. Q4. The word "stillborn" means (a) born asleep (b) born dead (c) born early (d) born with an illness

"For mercy's sake, Doctor," whimpered the midwife. "It's stillborn." Andrew did not heed her. Beaten, despairing, having laboured in vain for half an hour, he still persisted in one last effort, rubbing the child with a rough towel, crushing and releasing the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that limp body. And then, as by a miracle, the pigmy chest, which his hands enclosed, gave a short, convulsive heave, another... and another... Andrew turned giddy. The sense of life, springing beneath his fingers after all that unavailing striving, was so exquisite it almost made him faint. He redoubled his efforts feverishly. The child was gasping now, deeper and deeper.

1 marks · mcq

70. Q5. "He redoubled his efforts feverishly" once the child gasped. This shows Andrew's (a) renewed desperate determination to keep the child alive (b) fear of the midwife (c) plan to leave the house (d) anger at the child

"For mercy's sake, Doctor," whimpered the midwife. "It's stillborn." Andrew did not heed her. Beaten, despairing, having laboured in vain for half an hour, he still persisted in one last effort, rubbing the child with a rough towel, crushing and releasing the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that limp body. And then, as by a miracle, the pigmy chest, which his hands enclosed, gave a short, convulsive heave, another... and another... Andrew turned giddy. The sense of life, springing beneath his fingers after all that unavailing striving, was so exquisite it almost made him faint. He redoubled his efforts feverishly. The child was gasping now, deeper and deeper.

1 marks · mcq

71. Q1. Which was the clearest sign that the child had fully revived? (a) The bubble of mucus (b) The pinkening skin (c) The stiffened limbs (d) The child's cry

A bubble of mucus came from one tiny nostril, a joyful iridescent bubble. The limbs were no longer boneless. The head no longer lay back spinelessly. The blanched skin was slowly turning pink. Then, exquisitely, came the child's cry. "Dear Father in heaven," the nurse sobbed hysterically. "It's come — it's come alive." Andrew handed her the child. He felt weak and dazed. About him the room lay in a shuddering litter: blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the hypodermic syringe impaled by its point in the linoleum, the ewer knocked over, the kettle on its side in a puddle of water. Upon the huddled bed the mother still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic. The old woman still stood against the wall. But her hands were together, her lips moved without sound. She was praying.

1 marks · mcq

72. Q2. The old woman's hands together and her lips moving without sound show that she is (a) complaining (b) calling for help (c) cold (d) praying in silent gratitude

A bubble of mucus came from one tiny nostril, a joyful iridescent bubble. The limbs were no longer boneless. The head no longer lay back spinelessly. The blanched skin was slowly turning pink. Then, exquisitely, came the child's cry. "Dear Father in heaven," the nurse sobbed hysterically. "It's come — it's come alive." Andrew handed her the child. He felt weak and dazed. About him the room lay in a shuddering litter: blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the hypodermic syringe impaled by its point in the linoleum, the ewer knocked over, the kettle on its side in a puddle of water. Upon the huddled bed the mother still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic. The old woman still stood against the wall. But her hands were together, her lips moved without sound. She was praying.

1 marks · mcq

73. Q3. The description of the "shuddering litter" — blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the overturned kettle — serves to (a) record the magnitude and violence of the struggle just ended (b) show the nurse's carelessness (c) describe a celebration (d) make the room attractive

A bubble of mucus came from one tiny nostril, a joyful iridescent bubble. The limbs were no longer boneless. The head no longer lay back spinelessly. The blanched skin was slowly turning pink. Then, exquisitely, came the child's cry. "Dear Father in heaven," the nurse sobbed hysterically. "It's come — it's come alive." Andrew handed her the child. He felt weak and dazed. About him the room lay in a shuddering litter: blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the hypodermic syringe impaled by its point in the linoleum, the ewer knocked over, the kettle on its side in a puddle of water. Upon the huddled bed the mother still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic. The old woman still stood against the wall. But her hands were together, her lips moved without sound. She was praying.

1 marks · mcq

74. Q4. The mother, who "still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic", is (a) awake and joyful (b) telling her story (c) unconscious of the triumph won on her behalf (d) complaining of pain

A bubble of mucus came from one tiny nostril, a joyful iridescent bubble. The limbs were no longer boneless. The head no longer lay back spinelessly. The blanched skin was slowly turning pink. Then, exquisitely, came the child's cry. "Dear Father in heaven," the nurse sobbed hysterically. "It's come — it's come alive." Andrew handed her the child. He felt weak and dazed. About him the room lay in a shuddering litter: blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the hypodermic syringe impaled by its point in the linoleum, the ewer knocked over, the kettle on its side in a puddle of water. Upon the huddled bed the mother still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic. The old woman still stood against the wall. But her hands were together, her lips moved without sound. She was praying.

1 marks · mcq

75. Q5. The bubble of mucus is called a "joyful iridescent bubble" because (a) it is brightly coloured (b) it is a tiny sign of the breathing that means life (c) the nurse is crying (d) it is made of soap

A bubble of mucus came from one tiny nostril, a joyful iridescent bubble. The limbs were no longer boneless. The head no longer lay back spinelessly. The blanched skin was slowly turning pink. Then, exquisitely, came the child's cry. "Dear Father in heaven," the nurse sobbed hysterically. "It's come — it's come alive." Andrew handed her the child. He felt weak and dazed. About him the room lay in a shuddering litter: blankets, towels, basins, soiled instruments, the hypodermic syringe impaled by its point in the linoleum, the ewer knocked over, the kettle on its side in a puddle of water. Upon the huddled bed the mother still dreamed her way quietly through the anaesthetic. The old woman still stood against the wall. But her hands were together, her lips moved without sound. She was praying.

1 marks · mcq

76. Q1. What did Andrew mean by "Both all right"? (a) He and Joe were safe (b) The doctor and the nurse were well (c) The old woman and the midwife were well (d) The mother and the child had survived

Mechanically Andrew wrung out his sleeve, pulled on his jacket. "I'll fetch my bag later, nurse." He went downstairs, through the kitchen into the scullery. His lips were dry. At the scullery he took a long drink of water. He reached for his hat and coat. Outside he found Joe standing on the pavement with a tense, expectant face. "All right, Joe," he said thickly. "Both all right." It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock.

1 marks · mcq

77. Q2. Andrew spoke "thickly" and drank a long draught of water in the scullery because (a) he was thirsty from habit (b) the water was sweet (c) he was utterly exhausted and drained by the night's struggle (d) he was angry with Joe

Mechanically Andrew wrung out his sleeve, pulled on his jacket. "I'll fetch my bag later, nurse." He went downstairs, through the kitchen into the scullery. His lips were dry. At the scullery he took a long drink of water. He reached for his hat and coat. Outside he found Joe standing on the pavement with a tense, expectant face. "All right, Joe," he said thickly. "Both all right." It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock.

1 marks · mcq

78. Q3. Joe standing on the pavement "with a tense, expectant face" shows (a) his annoyance at the delay (b) his plan to go to work (c) that he was asleep (d) his hours of agonised waiting for news

Mechanically Andrew wrung out his sleeve, pulled on his jacket. "I'll fetch my bag later, nurse." He went downstairs, through the kitchen into the scullery. His lips were dry. At the scullery he took a long drink of water. He reached for his hat and coat. Outside he found Joe standing on the pavement with a tense, expectant face. "All right, Joe," he said thickly. "Both all right." It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock.

1 marks · mcq

79. Q4. Andrew wrung out his sleeve and pulled on his jacket "mechanically", which suggests that he (a) acted automatically, drained of feeling (b) was in a great hurry (c) was proud of his work (d) expected to be paid at once

Mechanically Andrew wrung out his sleeve, pulled on his jacket. "I'll fetch my bag later, nurse." He went downstairs, through the kitchen into the scullery. His lips were dry. At the scullery he took a long drink of water. He reached for his hat and coat. Outside he found Joe standing on the pavement with a tense, expectant face. "All right, Joe," he said thickly. "Both all right." It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock.

1 marks · mcq

80. Q5. "It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock." The closing time reference shows (a) how long the struggle had lasted — a whole night (b) that Andrew was late for his rounds (c) that Joe was lazy (d) that the clock was wrong

Mechanically Andrew wrung out his sleeve, pulled on his jacket. "I'll fetch my bag later, nurse." He went downstairs, through the kitchen into the scullery. His lips were dry. At the scullery he took a long drink of water. He reached for his hat and coat. Outside he found Joe standing on the pavement with a tense, expectant face. "All right, Joe," he said thickly. "Both all right." It was quite light. Nearly five o'clock.

1 marks · mcq

81. Q1. By "I've done something real at last", Andrew means that he has (a) earned a large fee (b) become famous in the town (c) proved his teachers wrong (d) saved two lives and fulfilled a doctor's true purpose

A few miners were already in the streets: the first of the night shift moving out. As Andrew walked with them, spent and slow, his footfalls echoing with the others under the morning sky, he kept thinking blindly, oblivious to all other work he had done in Blaenelly, "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last."

1 marks · mcq

82. Q2. The mention of the miners of the night shift moving out (a) shows the miners on strike (b) has no purpose in the story (c) describes a holiday (d) places the story in its Welsh mining setting and parallels Andrew's honest night's labour

A few miners were already in the streets: the first of the night shift moving out. As Andrew walked with them, spent and slow, his footfalls echoing with the others under the morning sky, he kept thinking blindly, oblivious to all other work he had done in Blaenelly, "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last."

1 marks · mcq

83. Q3. Andrew walked "spent and slow", which means (a) cheerful and brisk (b) angry and fast (c) exhausted and weary (d) proud and tall

A few miners were already in the streets: the first of the night shift moving out. As Andrew walked with them, spent and slow, his footfalls echoing with the others under the morning sky, he kept thinking blindly, oblivious to all other work he had done in Blaenelly, "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last."

1 marks · mcq

84. Q4. The repetition "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last" expresses (a) complaint (b) fear (c) apology (d) exultation and profound fulfilment

A few miners were already in the streets: the first of the night shift moving out. As Andrew walked with them, spent and slow, his footfalls echoing with the others under the morning sky, he kept thinking blindly, oblivious to all other work he had done in Blaenelly, "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last."

1 marks · mcq

85. Q5. The ending reveals that for Andrew the true reward of medicine lies in (a) money and comfort (b) routine practice (c) praise from neighbours (d) dedicated service that saves human life

A few miners were already in the streets: the first of the night shift moving out. As Andrew walked with them, spent and slow, his footfalls echoing with the others under the morning sky, he kept thinking blindly, oblivious to all other work he had done in Blaenelly, "I've done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last."

2 marks · short

86. Q1. Who was Joe Morgan? Why did he come to meet Andrew at midnight?

2 marks · short

87. Q2. Why did Joe Morgan refuse to enter the house with the doctor?

2 marks · short

88. Q3. What did Andrew mean by "Don't fret, mother, I'll not run away"?

2 marks · short

89. Q4. Why did Andrew decide to remain at Number 12 Blaina Terrace for the night?

2 marks · short

90. Q5. What thoughts about marriage troubled Andrew as he sat by the kitchen fire?

2 marks · short

91. Q6. Who was Christine, and what role does she play in the story?

2 marks · short

92. Q7. What instruction had Susan Morgan given about the chloroform?

2 marks · short

93. Q8. What was the condition of the room in which Susan Morgan lay?

2 marks · short

94. Q9. What happened at the end of "a long, harsh struggle"?

2 marks · short

95. Q10. What dilemma did Andrew face immediately after the child was born?

2 marks · short

96. Q11. How did Andrew save Susan Morgan?

2 marks · short

97. Q12. What was the condition of the newborn child when Andrew pulled it out from beneath the bed?

2 marks · short

98. Q13. What was the midwife's gesture when Andrew asked "Where's the child?"

2 marks · short

99. Q14. How did Andrew react to the midwife's whimper, "It's stillborn"?

2 marks · short

100. Q15. What signs of life appeared in the child one after the other?

2 marks · short

101. Q16. How did the old woman express her gratitude when the child revived?

2 marks · short

102. Q17. What was the state of the bedroom after the struggle was over?

2 marks · short

103. Q18. What were Andrew's parting words to Joe Morgan, and why were they significant?

2 marks · short

104. Q19. Why does Andrew call his night's work "something real at last"?

2 marks · short

105. Q20. What time was it when Andrew came out of the house, and what was happening in the streets?

3 marks · short

106. Q1. Describe the character of Mrs Morgan's mother as portrayed in the story.

3 marks · short

107. Q2. What do we learn about Joe Morgan from the story "Birth"?

3 marks · short

108. Q3. What was the state of Andrew's mind on his way to Number 12 Blaina Terrace, and what caused it?

3 marks · short

109. Q4. Describe the conflict between Andrew's head and heart as he sat by the kitchen fire.

3 marks · short

110. Q5. How does A. J. Cronin build suspense in the story "Birth"?

3 marks · short

111. Q6. "The dilemma was so urgent he did not solve it consciously." What was the dilemma and how did Andrew resolve it?

3 marks · short

112. Q7. Describe the method Andrew used to revive the stillborn child.

3 marks · short

113. Q8. Why is the child described in such tender detail even while it is lifeless?

3 marks · short

114. Q9. What role does the midwife play in the story?

3 marks · short

115. Q10. How does the story depict the longing of the Morgan family for the child?

3 marks · short

116. Q11. Comment on the significance of the title "Birth."

3 marks · short

117. Q12. How does the contrast between stillness and activity heighten the effect of the narrative?

3 marks · short

118. Q13. How does the story portray the trust reposed by patients in a doctor?

3 marks · short

119. Q14. "I have done something; oh, God! I've done something real at last." Why does Andrew say this, and what does it mean?

3 marks · short

120. Q15. What message does the story "Birth" convey about perseverance and dedication?

5 marks · broad

121. Q1. Draw a character sketch of Dr Andrew Manson.

5 marks · broad

122. Q2. Justify the title of the story "Birth."

5 marks · broad

123. Q3. "Birth" is as much a story about a doctor's dedication as about a family's hope. Discuss.

5 marks · broad

124. Q4. The story "Birth" upholds the noble ideals of the medical profession. Elaborate.

5 marks · broad

125. Q5. Describe Andrew's dilemma after the child was born lifeless, and explain what his decision reveals about him.

5 marks · broad

126. Q6. How does the story demonstrate the value of perseverance in the face of apparent defeat?

5 marks · broad

127. Q7. "There lies a great difference between textbook medicine and the world of a practising physician." Discuss this statement with reference to "Birth."