RBSE Solutions Class 12 English Prudence Short Stories Chapter 1 To-morrow

Tick The Correct Alternative:

Question 1. Captain Hagberd went from Colchester to Colebrook :
(a) to buy a new house
(b) in search of his son
(c) to start a new business
(d) all of the options
Answer: (b) in search of his son
In simple words: Captain Hagberd moved from Colchester to Colebrook because he was looking for his son. His main goal was to find his lost child.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering character motivation questions, always identify the primary driving force behind their actions as given in the story.

Question 2. Josiah Carvil was dependent on Bessie because :
Answer: He was blind.
In simple words: Bessie's father, Josiah Carvil, could not see. Because of his blindness, he relied on Bessie for almost everything in his daily life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note specific physical conditions mentioned in the text that explain a character's dependence or unique situation.

Question 3. Captain Hagberd wanted his son to employ with :
(a) a ship building company
(b) a company of advocates
(c) shipping corporation
(d) all of the options
Answer: (b) a company of advocates
In simple words: Captain Hagberd hoped his son would work for a company that deals with legal matters, specifically one with advocates. This shows his specific dreams for Harry's career path.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to specific details about characters' wishes or plans, as these often reveal their personality or hopes.

Answer The Following Questions In About 15-20 Words Each:

निम्न प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर लगभग 15-20 शब्दों में लिखिएः

Question 1. How did Bessie's father behave with her?
बेसी के पिता उसके साथ कैसा व्यवहार करते थे?
Answer: Bessie's father was very unkind to her. He would often shout and scold her, and he never even helped himself with small tasks. His cruel nature made her life difficult.
बेसी के पिता उसके साथ बहुत निर्दयतापूर्वक व्यवहार करते थे। वे उस पर चिल्लाते और डाँटते थे। वह स्वयं एक चम्मच तक नहीं उठाते थे।
In simple words: Bessie's father was very rude and always scolded her. He did not help himself at all.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about character behaviour, use strong adjectives to describe their actions and emotional impact.

Question 2. What was Bessie's reaction to her father's behaviour ?
अपने पिता के व्यवहार पर बेसी की क्या प्रतिक्रिया होती थी?
Answer: Bessie usually obeyed her father quietly, putting up with his harsh treatment at home. Sometimes, however, she would show signs of being annoyed and disgusted. She often found quiet ways to cope with his difficult nature.
अपने पिता की क्रूरता को सहन करते हुये बेसी उसकी आज्ञा का चुपचाप पालन करती थी। कभी कभी वह निराशा और झुंझलाहट के लक्षण भी दिखाती थी।
In simple words: Bessie usually listened to her father quietly, even though he was cruel. Sometimes she got irritated and disgusted.

🎯 Exam Tip: Observe the subtle reactions of characters, as they often reveal deeper feelings than their outward actions.

Question 3. What made Bessie blush ?

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions without an explicit answer in the text, review the story for indirect clues or context that might imply the answer, but avoid inventing new information.

Question 4. Who was the stranger who met Captain Hagberd?
वह अजनबी कौन था जो कप्तान हैग्बर्ड से मिला?
Answer: The stranger who met Captain Hagberd was actually his own son, Harry. Harry had run away from home when he was a child. The captain, lost in his own world, did not recognize him.
जो अजनबी कप्तान हैग्बर्ड से मिला वह उसका लड़का हैरी ही स्वयं था जो कि बचपन में भाग गया था।
In simple words: The stranger was Captain Hagberd's son, Harry. Harry had run away when he was a child.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key character relationships and plot twists, such as unexpected reunions or mistaken identities.

Question 5. What kind of life did Harry live after he had left home?
घर से भागने के बाद हैरी किस प्रकार जीवन जीता था?
Answer: After leaving home, Harry lived as a vagabond, which means he wandered from place to place without a fixed home. He never settled down in one spot for very long. This restless lifestyle meant he was always moving, seeking new adventures or simply escaping responsibilities.
घर से भागने के बाद, हैरी एक खानाबदोश का जीवन जीता था। वह एक स्थान पर बहुत ज्यादा समय पर नहीं रुकता था।
In simple words: After leaving home, Harry lived like a wanderer. He did not stay in one place for long.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a character's life, include details about their actions, their environment, and any lifestyle choices they made.

Answer The Following Questions In About 50 Words Each:

निम्न प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर 50 शब्दों में दीजिए:

Question 1. Why did Captain Hagberd settle in Colebrook?
कैप्टन हैगबर्ड कोलेब्रुक में क्यों बस गए?
Or
What brought Captain Hagberd to Colebrook?
ऐसी कौन-सी चीज थी जो कैप्टन हैगबर्ड को कोलेब्रुक खींच ले आई ?
Answer: The circumstances that brought Captain Hagberd to Colebrook were:
1. His wife had passed away, and his son had left home sixteen years ago when he was just fourteen.
2. He had retired from his life as a sailor.
3. A false letter, a hoax, convinced him to sell his property in Colchester (UK) and move to Colebrook. This letter claimed that Harry had been seen in Colebrook. He clung to this hope, believing his son was nearby.
वे परिस्थितियाँ जो हेगबर्ड को कोलेब्ब्रुक ले आईं, वे थीं –
1. उसकी पत्नी मर गई थी और उसका बेटा चौदह वर्ष की अवस्था में ही सोलह वर्ष पहले घर से भाग गया। था।
2. वह एक सेवानिवृत्त नाविक था।
3. एक पत्र के रूप में एक चाल ने उसे अपनी संपति कोलचेस्टर (यू.के.) में बेचने और कोलेब्रुक में बसने के लिए मजबूर कर दिया। किसी ने उसे उस पत्र में सूचित किया था कि हैरी को कोलेब्रुक में देखा गया था।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd moved to Colebrook because his wife died and his son ran away years ago. A fake letter told him his son was in Colebrook, so he sold his old home and moved there, hoping to find him.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining reasons, list them clearly with numbers or bullet points for better organization and readability.

Question 2. What sort of a seaman had Captain Hagberd been?
कैप्टन हैगबर्ड किस प्रकार का नाविक रहा था ?
Answer: Captain Hagberd was a very loving person who preferred living on land instead of at sea. He was a sensible and balanced individual. Although he worked as a sailor, he longed to be near the coast to watch the many houses and people gathered around their fireplaces. Despite being a traveller, he felt very homesick. His heart yearned for the comfort of a settled life.
समुद्र की अपेक्षा पृथ्वी का जीवन कैप्टन को बहुत प्रिय था। वह संतुलित तथा विवेकशील था। निसन्देह रूप से वह नाविक का कार्य करता था, परन्तु समुद्री किनारे के पास जाकर अगणित मकानों को और आग के सहारे एकत्र लोगों को देखना चाहता था। एक नाविक होते हुए भी वह एक गृहासक्त व्यक्ति था।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd was a kind and sensible sailor who loved being on land. He was homesick and wanted to watch houses and people, not live at sea.

🎯 Exam Tip: Character sketches should include both their profession and personal traits, showing their inner thoughts and outward actions.

Question 3. What has been Bessie's reaction to old Hagberd's ravings?
वृद्ध हैगबर्ड की विक्षिप्ततापूर्ण (सनकी) बातों के प्रति बेसी की क्या प्रतिक्रिया रही?
Answer: Bessie's reactions to old Hagberd's strange ideas were very calm and steady. She would listen to him quietly and just nod her head to show she understood without speaking. Hagberd always showed fatherly affection towards her, and she knew he was always worried and sad about his long-lost son, Harry. Her empathy helped her understand his state of mind.
वृद्ध हैगबर्ड की विक्षिप्ततापूर्ण (विचित्र) बातों के प्रति बेसी की प्रतिक्रियाएँ बहुत शान्त और संतुलित रहती हैं। वह उसे चुपचाप सुनती रहती है। वह सिर्फ उसकी बातों को सिर हिलाकर (मूक स्वीकृति में) स्वीकार करती है। हैगबर्ड हमेशा उसके प्रति पिता तुल्य स्नेह व्यक्त करता है। वह (बेसी) समझती है कि वह बहुत दिन पहले खो चुके अपने बेटे (हैरी) के कारण हमेशा चिन्तित और परेशान रहती है।
In simple words: Bessie reacted calmly to Hagberd's strange talks. She listened quietly and nodded, understanding his sadness about his lost son, Harry.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on how characters interact emotionally and empathetically, as these details reveal deeper aspects of their relationships.

Question 4. Write a short note on Mr Carvil.
मिस्टर कारविल पर एक टिप्पणी लिखिए।
Or
What sort of a person was Mr Carvil ? (S.S. Exam 2012)
मिस्टर कारविल किस प्रकार का व्यक्ति था ?
Answer: Mr Carvil was a very cruel man and a harsh father. He was blind and a widower, and completely depended on his daughter, Bessie. He never did anything for himself, not even picking up a spoon to eat. His body was huge like a hippopotamus, and his shouts sounded like a lion's roar. He was a truly intimidating presence in the household.
मिस्टर कारविल एक बहुत क्रूर व्यक्ति और पिता था। वह अन्धा तथा विधुर था और अपनी बेटी बेसी पर पूरी तरह से निर्भर था। वह अपने मुँह तक एक चम्मच भी नहीं उठाता था। उसका (कारविल का) शरीर दरियाई घोड़े की तरह विशालकाय थी। उसकी चीख (चीखने का तरीका) शेर की दहाड़ की तरह थी।
In simple words: Mr Carvil was a cruel, blind father. He relied completely on his daughter, Bessie, for everything. He was a large man with a loud voice.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing short notes on characters, include their main traits, physical description if relevant, and key relationships.

Question 5. Describe the kind of life Bessie lived.
बेसी जिस प्रकार का जीवन व्यतीत करती थी, उसका वर्णन कीजिये।
Answer: Bessie lived a very sad life in a small cottage with her blind, widowed father. She had to care for her ill-tempered father, who would yell and scold her for the smallest mistakes. He wouldn't even lift a spoon for himself. She quietly obeyed him and endured his harsh treatment, though sometimes she would show signs of anger and unhappiness. Her existence was one of constant struggle and limited joy.
बेसी अपने विधुर और अन्धे पिता के साथ एक छोटी झोपड़ी में निराशपूर्ण जीवन बिता रही थी। वह अपने गुस्सैल पिता की सेवा करती थी जो उस पर चिल्लाता रहता था और थोड़ी सी भी गलती पर डाँटता रहता था। वह अपने आप एक चम्मच भी नहीं उठाता था। वह उसकी आज्ञा मानती थी और चुपचाप कष्ट भोगती रहती थी और कभी कभी निराशा और आँझलाहट के चिन्हें भी प्रदर्शित करती थी।
In simple words: Bessie lived a sad life in a small house with her blind father. She cared for him while he was often angry, and she suffered quietly, sometimes showing her irritation.

🎯 Exam Tip: A good description of a character's life should cover their living situation, responsibilities, emotional state, and interactions with others.

Answer The Following Questions In About 100 Words Each:

Question 1. "Captain Hagberd was an eccentric person.” Comment on it.
“कप्तान हैगबर्ड एक सनकी व्यक्ति था।” इस कथन की आलोचना कीजिए।
Or
Discuss Captain Hagberd's eccentric behaviour.
कप्तान हैगबर्ड के सनकी व्यवहार की विवेचना कीजिए।
Answer: Captain Hagberd was suffering from an intense obsession due to the loss of his son. His son had left home at a young age, barely 14. After retiring, Hagberd had no work except to constantly think about past events and optimistically hope for the future. The deep sorrow from his son's disappearance, followed by his wife's death, created a void in his life that affected his mind. His mental instability first showed when he moved from Colchester (UK) to Colebrook, and then he openly advertised his pain to everyone. His loneliness made him behave strangely. He was very troubled by his lost son and firmly believed his son would return home the very next day. This unwavering belief, despite evidence, made him truly eccentric.
कप्तान हैगबर्ड अपने पुत्र के वियोग से मानसिक रूप से पीड़ित था। जब उसके पुत्र ने घर छोड़ा तब वह मात्र 14 वर्ष की अवस्था में ही था। वह सेवानिवृत्ति के बाद कुछ भी काम नहीं करता था सिवाय इसके कि पिछली घटनाओं और वस्तुओं पर चिन्तन-मनन करना और भविष्य के लिए आशावादी व्यवहार रखना। उसके पुत्र के खो जाने तथा पत्नी की मृत्यु ने उसके जीवन में शून्यता भर दी थी जिसने उसके दिमाग को प्रभावित किया। मानसिक अस्थिरता का पहला लक्षण उसका कोलचेस्टर (यू.के.) से कोलेब्रुक में स्थानांतरण था। फिर उसने अपने दर्द को लोगों के बीच विज्ञापित किया। उसके अकेलेपन ने उसे सनकी बना दिया। वह अपने खोए हुए बेटे के लिए बहुत परेशान था। उसे यकीन था कि उसका बेटा अगले ही दिन घर वापस आ जाएगा।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd was eccentric because he was obsessed with his lost son. After his wife died and his son left at 14, he spent his retirement hoping Harry would return. This deep sadness made his mind unstable, making him move and openly talk about his son's return, even believing Harry would come home tomorrow.

🎯 Exam Tip: When commenting on a character's eccentricity, provide specific examples of their unusual beliefs or actions and explain the underlying emotional or psychological reasons.

Question. Justify the title of the story 'To-morrow'.
कहानी "To-morrow' के शीर्षक के औचित्य का निरूपण कीजिए।
Answer: The title "To-morrow" is very fitting for the story, as it reflects Captain Hagberd's whimsical state of mind. After his wife died and his son left home, Captain Hagberd developed a strange, optimistic belief that his son would definitely return to him "tomorrow." The ironic part is that this belief was so deeply fixed in his mind that even when his son actually came to him, Hagberd refused to recognize him. He continued to hold onto his conviction that his son would come "tomorrow." Thus, the word "To-morrow" becomes the central idea of the entire story, making it a perfectly suitable title. It highlights his delusional hope.
कहानी को 'To-morrow' एक उचित शीर्षक दिया गया है जोकि कप्तान हैगबर्ड के दिमाग की सनकी स्थिति को प्रतिबिम्बित करता है। उसकी पत्नी की मृत्यु के पश्चात और उसके लड़के के घर से भाग जाने के बाद वह (कप्तान हैगबर्ड) एक सनकी आशावादी रवैया अपने दिमाग में विकसित कर लेता है कि उसका लड़का “कल” लौट आयेगा। विडम्बना यह है कि यह सनक उसके दिमाग में इतना अधिक गहराई तक जमी हुई है कि तब भी जब उसका लड़का उसके पास आता है, वह उसे पहचानने से इन्कार कर देता है, और इस सनक को अब भी अपने दिमाग में पाले रहता है कि उसका लड़का कल आयेगा। इस प्रकार “कल" इस कहानी का केन्द्र बिन्दु बन जाता है। अत: यह स्पष्ट है कि इस कहानी का शीर्षक "To-morrow' एक उपयुक्त शीर्षक ही है।
In simple words: The title "To-morrow" fits the story well because Captain Hagberd always believed his son would come home "tomorrow," even when he didn't recognize his son when he actually appeared. This hope for "tomorrow" is the main theme.

🎯 Exam Tip: To justify a title, explain how it relates to the main character's core belief, a key plot point, or the central theme of the story.

RBSE Class 12 English Prudence Short Stories Chapter 1 Additional Questions

Answer The Following Questions In About 50 Words:

Question 1. Captain Hagberd constantly hinted at something that made Bessie blush. What was it?
कैप्टन हमेशा उस चीज का इशारा करता रहता जिससे बेसी के गालों पर लालिमा आ जाती थी। वह क्या चीज थी ?
Answer: Captain Hagberd often hinted about "doing away with the fence" between their properties. Bessie, being a very sensitive unmarried woman, imagined a bright future for herself. She believed that once the fence was gone, she would marry Harry, Captain Hagberd's son. This thought of marriage made her blush. She dreamed of a happy life with Harry.
यह चीज इस प्रकार थी- "हम इस दीवार को हटा कर बातचीत कर सकते हैं।” वह बहुत ही अधिक भावुक कुँवारी लड़की थी, वह अपने सुन्दर भविष्य की कल्पना करती जबकि इस दीवार का अस्तित्व खत्म हो जायेगा। वह कल्पना करती थी कि उसकी उसके (हैगबर्ड के) पुत्र हैरी से शादी हो जाएगी। अपने विवाह के विचार से उसके गालों पर लालिमा आ जाती थी।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd hinted at removing the fence. Bessie, being sensitive, imagined this meant she would marry his son, Harry, making her blush.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify symbolic actions or suggestions made by characters, as they often reveal hidden desires or future hopes, especially in sensitive individuals.

Question 3. Why did Bessie sometimes show signs of irritation and disgust?
कभी-कभी बेसी चिड़चिड़ाहट और घृणा के चिह्न क्यों प्रदर्शित करती थी ?
Answer: Bessie's father was a harsh master at home and often abused her. Captain Hagberd understood her pain and difficulties. Since Bessie had no real joy in her life and no hope for a better future, she occasionally showed signs of irritation and disgust. She longed for a life with some happiness and dignity.
बेसी के पिता एक घरेलू निरंकुश (अत्याचारी) थे और उसे अक्सर गाली देते रहते थे। कैप्टन होगबर्ड उस समय उसके दर्द को महसूस करते थे और चालाकियों को भी उसके जीवन में कोई आकर्षण नहीं था और अच्छे भविष्य की कोई आशाएँ नहीं थी इसीलिये वह कभी-कभी चिड़चिड़ाहट तथा घृणा के भाव प्रदर्शित करती थी।
In simple words: Bessie's father was cruel and often mistreated her. She felt no joy or hope for the future, so sometimes she showed annoyance and disgust.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link a character's emotional reactions to the specific events or circumstances they face, highlighting the cause-and-effect relationship.

Question 4. Who was the stranger who met Captain Hagberd ? What was the Captain's reaction to the meeting?
वह अजनबी कौन था जो कैप्टन होगबर्ड से मिला था ? उसके मिलने पर कैप्टेन की क्या प्रतिक्रिया हुई ?
Answer: The stranger who met Captain Hagberd was likely Harry, his long-lost son, whom Captain Hagberd failed to recognize. Harry asked if the captain was indeed Captain Hagberd and if he had advertised for his son. Captain Hagberd quickly interrupted him, stating that his son would arrive "tomorrow." Leaning on his spade, the Captain dismissively told Harry, "Go your way," completely missing the true identity of the young man before him. He was stuck in his delusion.
वह अजनबी जो कप्तान से मिली, शायद हैरी था जो उसका लम्बे समय से खो गया बेटा था। हैरी ने उससे पूछा क्या आप कप्तान हैगबर्ड हैं और क्या आपने अपने बेटे के लिए विज्ञापन दिया था। कप्तान ने उसे यह कहकर रोक दिया कि उसका बेटा कल आने वाला था। कप्तान अपने फावड़े पर झुका और कहा-'आप अपने रास्ते जाइए।'
In simple words: The stranger was probably Harry, Captain Hagberd's son, but the captain did not recognize him. When Harry asked about his son, the captain just said Harry would come tomorrow and told the stranger to leave.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note instances of dramatic irony where characters are unaware of key information known to the reader, and how it impacts their decisions.

Question 5. What did young Hagberd think it meant when old Hagberd said that his son would be coming home tomorrow?
युवक हैगबर्ड ने इस बात का क्या अर्थ निकाला जब वृद्ध हैगबर्ड ने कहा कि उसका बेटा कल आ जाएगा?
Answer: The young man (Harry) understood that Captain Hagberd did not want to recognize his own son, even though he was Harry himself. So, he laughed at this situation and remarked that the Captain's beard had grown long, like Father Christmas. When the Captain saw from the window that the young man was still there and talking to Bessie, he called out Bessie to send him away, calling him just a vagabond. He also told her that this young man was not the real Harry, and that Harry was truly coming the next day, and he would marry Bessie. This shows the Captain's deep delusion.
युवक हैगबर्ड समझ गया कि कैप्टन हैगबर्ड अपने बेटे को पहचानना नहीं चाहते जबकि वास्तविकता यह है। कि वह स्वयं उनका बेटा हैरी है। इसलिए वह इस बात पर हंसने लगा और कहा कि उसकी दाढी फादर क्रिसमस की तरह बढ़ गई है। जब उसने अपनी खिड़की से देखा कि वह नवयुवक अभी तक वहीं पर रुका है और बेसी से बात कर रहा है तो उसने बेसी से उसे वहाँ से चले जाने को कहा क्योंकि वह एक आवारा है। उसने यह भी बताया कि यह युवक वास्तविक हैरी नहीं है। हैरी दूसरे दिन आ रहा है और वह उससे शादी कर लेगा।।
In simple words: Harry realized his father didn't recognize him and was lost in his own belief that his son would come tomorrow. He laughed, seeing his father's delusion. His father later told Bessie to send the young man away, saying the real Harry would come tomorrow and marry her.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze how characters interpret actions or words, especially when there's a disconnect between reality and their perception.

Question 6. What reasons did Bessie give for encouraging old Hagberd in his insane hopes ?
बेसी बूढे हैगबर्ड की निरर्थक आशा को प्रोत्साहित करने के लिये क्या तर्क देती थी ?
Or
What conditions made Captain Hagberd like Bessie Carvil ? (S. S. Exam 2015)
कैप्टन हैगबर्ड बेसी कारविल को किन कारणों से पसंद करता था?
Answer: Bessie and Captain Hagberd grew close to each other. Bessie felt a sense of sympathy for him. She always encouraged his unrealistic hopes because any disagreement could upset him greatly. She genuinely loved and respected him like her own father. These shared conditions made Captain Hagberd fond of Bessie Carvil. Bessie's kindness and understanding provided Hagberd with comfort in his delusional state.
बेसी और कैप्टन हैगबर्ड एक-दूसरे के प्रति आत्मीय हो चुके थे। बेसी उसके प्रति सहानुभूति का भाव रखती थी। उसने सदा उसकी निरर्थक उन्मादी आशाओं को प्रोत्साहित किया। उसकी बातों का खण्डन उसका दिमाग खराब कर सकता था। उसने उसे हमेशा अपने पिता की भांति प्यार और सम्मान किया। इन सभी बातों के कारण कप्तान होगबर्ड बेसी को पसंद करते थे।
In simple words: Bessie had sympathy for Captain Hagberd and encouraged his hopes because arguing upset him. She loved him like a father, making Hagberd like her.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing character relationships, highlight mutual feelings, dependencies, and how one character's actions affect another's emotional state.

Question 7. What makes Bessie convinced that the youngman is indeed Harry?
बेसी. किस बात से विश्वस्त होती है कि वह नवयुवक वास्तव में हैरी है ?
Answer: Bessie became convinced that the young man was indeed Harry because of his unique way of talking about past events. His anger and dislike for his father were exactly as Captain Hagberd had described to her during their backyard conversations. Additionally, the young man closely resembled Captain Hagberd, which further assured Bessie that he was, in fact, the Captain's son. These observations combined made her certain of his identity.
बेसी को विश्वास हो गया था कि वास्तव में वही हैरी है क्योंकि पिछली घटनाओं के विषय में उसके बात करने का तरीका अनोखा था। उसको अपने पिता के लिए कटुता और घृणा वैसी ही थी जैसा कप्तान अपनी बातों में पीछे के बरामदे में बेसी से कहा करता था। इसके अतिरिक्त, उसकी मुखाकृति कैप्टन हैगबर्ड से मिलती-जुलती थी जिससे उसे (बेसी को) विश्वास हो गया कि वह उनका ही पुत्र था।
In simple words: Bessie believed the young man was Harry because he talked about past events strangely, showed the same anger towards his father that the captain spoke of, and looked like Captain Hagberd.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering about character conviction, list the specific details or pieces of evidence that led to their strong belief.

Question 9. What does Bessie tell Harry about his father's plans for him?
बेसी हैरी के लिए उसके पिताजी की योजनाओं के बारे में हैरी से क्या कहती है ?
Answer: Bessie tells Harry that his father wants to give him everything he owns. She assures him that she can convince his father in about a week. She also promises Harry not to tell his father about any mistakes he has made so far. Finally, she informs him that his father plans to solemnize their marriage soon. Her words painted a picture of a welcoming home and a future for Harry.
बेसी हैरी से कहती है कि उसके पिताजी अपनी प्रत्येक चीज उसे ही देना चाहते हैं। वह उसे विश्वास दिलाती है कि वह उसके पिताजी को एक सप्ताह में सही रास्ते पर ले आयेगी। बाद में वह वायदा करती है कि उसने (हैरी) अब तक जो गलतियाँ कीं हैं, वह उसे (हैगबर्ड को) नहीं बताएगी। वह उसे यह भी बताती है कि उसके पिताजी शीघ्र ही उनकी (हैरी और बेसी की) शादी करवा देंगे।
In simple words: Bessie told Harry his father wants to give him everything and plans for his marriage. She promised not to tell his father about Harry's past mistakes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on how characters communicate plans and secrets, as this often drives the plot and reveals underlying motivations.

Question 10. What is the consistency one finds in the old man's madness?
उस वृद्ध व्यक्ति के पागलपन में क्या सामंजस्य मिलता है ?
Answer: The consistency in the old man's madness stems from his advanced age, the profound sorrow of losing his son Harry, his self-control, education, and fluctuating moods. He is a loving and compassionate father. He also feels sympathetic towards Bessie. Due to his loneliness, he finds comfort in her presence. His delusion, though consistent, highlights his struggle to cope with reality. These elements combine to give his madness a predictable, if tragic, pattern.
वह सामंजस्यता जो उस वृद्ध व्यक्ति (हैगबर्ड) के पागलपन में मिलती है वह है उसकी वृद्धावस्था, उसके पुत्र हैरी के खो जाने के दुख, आत्म-संयम, शिक्षा और व्यवहार में मिजाजी होने के कारण। वह एक अच्छा और दयालु पिता है। उसे बेसी से भी सहानुभूति है। वह अपने अकेलेपन के कारण बेसी की उपस्थिति में 'सहज (अच्छा) महसूस करता है।
In simple words: The old man's madness is consistent because it comes from his old age, sadness over his lost son, and loneliness. He is a kind father who feels comfortable with Bessie.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing consistency in a character's unusual behaviour, connect it to their past experiences, emotional state, and core personality traits.

Question 11. How does Captain Hagberd prepare for Harry's homecoming?
हैरी की घर वापसी के लिये कप्तान किस प्रकार तैयारी करता है ?
Answer: Captain Hagberd prepares for Harry's return by carefully tending to his front and back gardens. He digs holes in various spots in the ground, expecting flowers to grow there for when his son comes home. He also buys a lot of items like seeds, pots, paint, varnish, carpets with different designs, furniture, and display cases. He collects all these things to make his house look new and welcoming for Harry, whom he deeply loves and misses. He is convinced that Harry will return any day.
कप्तान हैगबर्ड ने अपने आगे तथा पीछे के बगीचों को विभिन्न प्रकार के फूलों के बीजों को बोने के लिये (उगाने) तैयार कर रखा है। उसने जमीन में विभिन्न स्थानों पर गड्ढे खोद रखे हैं यह सोचकर कि वहाँ फूल उगाए जाएंगे, जब उसका बेटा हैरी घर आऐगा। वह बीज, बर्तन, रंग, वार्निश, विभिन्न डिजाइन के गलीचे, फर्नीचर, शो केस आदि खरीदता है।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd prepares for Harry by planting flowers in his gardens. He also buys many items like seeds, paints, carpets, and furniture to decorate his house for his son's expected return.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail specific actions characters take as preparation, as these reveal their expectations and emotional investment in future events.

Question 12. What was Harry's reasons for coming to meet old Hagberd? (Model Paper 2012)
हैरी का बूढ़े हैगबर्ड के पास आकर मिलने का क्या कारण थी ?
Answer: From Harry's conversation with Bessie, it becomes clear that he had come to meet old Hagberd with a deceptive plan. He intended to trick his father into giving him money. He would falsely reassure his father that his son would be brought back if a large sum of money was paid. Harry also mentioned that he had friends who betrayed each other by spreading false rumours. This suggests he was involved in dishonest schemes.
बेसी के साथ हैरी की बातचीत से पता चलता है कि वह हैगबर्ड से धोखे से पैसे लेने के लिए वहाँ आया था। वह उसे झूठी लालसा देगा कि यदि वह (हैगबर्ड) उसे अच्छा पैसा देगा तो वह उसे उसका बेटा ला देगा। उसने बताया कि उसके कुछ मित्र हैं जो हर किसी के विषय में झूठी खबरें (अफवाहें) फैला कर एक दूसरे को धोखा देते हैं।
In simple words: Harry met old Hagberd to trick him into giving him money. He planned to tell his father that if he paid a lot of money, his son would be returned.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify characters' hidden motives, especially when their actions seem manipulative or self-serving, as this can reveal their true nature.

Question 13. Why does Harry's return prove to be disappointment for Bessie?
हैरी को लौटना बेसी के लिए निराशापूर्ण क्यों सिद्ध होता है ?
Answer: Harry's return proved to be a disappointment for Bessie because she could not persuade him to stay at home. Harry was a wandering type of person who was used to tricking people to get money. It was impossible for him to change his ways. So, Bessie's kind and innocent heart was broken. She was overwhelmed with deep sorrow and disappointment. She had hoped for a different outcome, a settled life with Harry.
ऐसा इसलिए क्योंकि वह उसको घर के लिए फुसला नहीं सकी। वह एक निरुद्देश्य घूमने वाला व्यक्ति था। वह ठगने का आदी था एवं वहाँ से उसका लौटना असम्भव था अर्थात् अपनी ठगने की आदत को वह छोड़ नहीं सकता था। इसलिए उसका (बेसी का) कोमल एवं निर्दोष हृदय टूट गया। वह दुःख और निराशा के सागर में डूब गई।
In simple words: Bessie was disappointed because she couldn't make Harry stay home. He was a trickster who loved to wander, so her gentle heart was broken by his departure and dishonest nature.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze character disappointments by linking them to dashed hopes, the reality of a situation, and the individual's emotional fragility.

Question 14. "The author has conveyed the message that gross attachment finally ends with dire consequences” – Discuss.
Answer: All the characters in the story are slaves to their emotions. Captain Hagberd, though not a bad father, suffers a tragic old age due to his intense attachment to his lost son. Harry completely destroyed the social norms of respect and love usually shown to parents. Bessie, despite her difficult situation, manages her family well. This excessive attachment grows into madness and leads to great suffering. The author skillfully uses these intertwined fates to show that extreme emotional bonds can ultimately lead to ruin and unhappiness.
सारे पात्र अपनी भावनाओं के गुलाम हैं। कप्तान हैगबर्ड एक बुरे पिता नहीं हैं, परन्तु उनके खोए हुऐ पुत्र के साथ उनकी गहन आत्मीयता की परिणति दुखी वृद्ध जीवन के रूप में होती है। हैरी ने सामाजिक मान्यताओं, सम्मान और प्रेम जो माता-पिता के लिए होता है, उसे जड़ से नष्ट कर दिया है। बेसी अंपनी बुरी स्थिति में भी वह अपने परिवार को व्यवस्थित कर लेती है। इस प्रकार अत्यधिक लगाव उन्मत्तता में विकसित होता है। । तथा अति दुखी होने का कारण बनता है।
In simple words: The author shows that too much attachment leads to bad results. Captain Hagberd's strong love for his lost son makes him suffer greatly. Harry ignores family respect. This highlights how extreme emotional bonds can cause deep pain and mental distress.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing a message or theme, cite examples from multiple characters to show how the message applies broadly within the narrative.

Question 15. For all other intimacy, the Captain never invited Bessie to have a look inside his cottage. Why?
अन्य सभी घनिष्ठताओं के बावजूद कप्तान ने कभी भी बेसी को अपनी कुटिया में अन्दर : देखने के लिए आमंत्रित नहीं किया, क्यों?
Answer: It was Captain Hagberd's long-standing habit not to give importance to emotions. He believed that Bessie was an unmarried woman and should not be invited inside by a widower, especially in a home without a wife. He also saw her as a tenant's daughter and felt it was better to keep a clear boundary between himself and Bessie. His rigid beliefs dictated his actions.
यह उसकी शुरू की आदत थी कि वह भावनाओं को कोई महत्व नहीं देता था। उसके मस्तिष्क में यह था कि बेसी एक कुँवारी लड़की है और उसे किसी विधुर द्वारा आमंत्रित नहीं किया जाना चाहिए बिना पत्नी के। वह किरायेदार की पुत्री थी और उसने अपने और बेसी के मध्य दीवार बनाए रखना बेहतर समझा।
In simple words: Captain Hagberd never invited Bessie inside because he didn't value emotions. He felt it was wrong for a widower to invite an unmarried woman, especially a tenant's daughter, into his home.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain character actions by identifying their deep-seated beliefs, societal norms, or personal habits that guide their decisions.

Question 16. List out the things piled up in Captain's house meant to be used after tomorrow.
कल के बाद प्रयुक्त होने वाले सामान की सूची बनाइए जिन्हें कप्तान ने अपने मकान में एकत्र थीं।
Answer: The things piled up in Captain's house, intended for use "after tomorrow," were:
1. Flower seeds and fertiliser packets.
2. Paint and varnish buckets.
3. Rolls of carpets.
4. Cement and
5. A pile of rubbles.
Hagberd was collecting all these items to renovate his house, preparing it for the day his son Harry would supposedly return home "tomorrow." This collection clearly showed his unwavering hope and devotion.
हैगबर्ड ये सारी वस्तुएँ अपने घर को नवीनता प्रदान करने के लिये एकत्रित कर रहा था जब उसको पुत्र हैरी। कल घर वापिस आयेगा। वह बहुत दिनों पहले खो चुके अपने पुत्र से बहुत प्यार करता था।
In simple words: The Captain piled up flower seeds, paint, carpets, cement, and rubbles. He gathered these things to fix his house, hoping his son, Harry, would come home soon.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing items, ensure the list is complete and accurately reflects the details provided in the source text.

Question 17. Describe the kind of life Bessie lived.
वर्णन कीजिए कि बेसी किस प्रकार का जीवन जीती थी।
Answer: Bessie was an unmarried girl whose father always mistreated her and was completely dependent on her. She endured all this silently. She also supported her landlord's belief about his son's return, which gave him a reason to live. Therefore, she was a kind, empathetic, and patient girl. She lived a challenging life without showing any resentment. Her quiet strength helped her cope with daily struggles.
बेसी एक अविवाहित लड़की थी। उसके पिता हमेशा उसके साथ दुर्व्यवहार करते थे और पूरी तरह उस पर आश्रित थे। वह यह सब कुछ शान्तिपूर्वक सहन करती थी। वह अपने मकानमालिक के उसके पुत्र के लौट आने सम्बन्धी विश्वास को सहारा देकर उसे जीवित रहने में सहारा देती थी। इस प्रकार वह एक दयालु, सहानुभूतिपूर्ण व धैर्यशाली लड़की थी। वह बिना कोई शिकायत किए अपना दयनीय जीवन जीती थी।
In simple words: Bessie lived a difficult life as an unmarried girl, supporting her abusive, dependent father. She was kind and patient, silently enduring her hardships while also supporting her landlord's hopes.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a character's life, include details about their personal relationships, their emotional resilience, and how they cope with challenges.

Question 18. 'Hope sustains life'. Describe with reference to the lesson.
'आशा व्यक्ति को जीवित रखती है। इस पाठ के सन्दर्भ में वर्णन कीजिए।
Answer: The saying 'Hope sustains life' is proven completely true in this lesson. Captain Hagberd's son left home sixteen years ago, but the Captain still hopes for his return the very next day. He makes all preparations for his son's homecoming and even plans his marriage. The only reason he continues to live is the hope that his long-lost son will eventually return. This unwavering hope, though delusional, gives his life purpose.
'आशा व्यक्ति को जीवित रखती है' यह कहावत इस पाठ में पूर्णतः सत्य सिद्ध होती है। कैप्टन हैगबर्ड का पुत्र 16 वर्ष पहले घर छोड़कर चला गया था। लेकिन उन्हें अभी भी कल ही उसके लौट आने की आशा है। वह उसके वापिस आने की सभी तैयारियाँ करते हैं और उसके विवाह की भी योजना बनाये हुए हैं। उनके जीवित रहने का एकमात्र कारण उनके लम्बे समय से खोये पुत्र की वापसी की आशा ही है।
In simple words: The story shows that hope keeps people alive. Captain Hagberd lives only for the hope that his son, who left 16 years ago, will return tomorrow, even planning his marriage.

🎯 Exam Tip: To illustrate a theme, provide concrete examples from the story that clearly demonstrate the theme's presence and impact on the characters.

Question 19. Why did Harry leave Bessie at the end?
हैरी ने अन्त में वेसी को छोड़ दिया क्योंकि उसके पिता कप्तान हैगवर्ड ने उसकी आशाओं के विपरीत व्यवहार किया और उसे नहीं पहचाना। उसका पिता हैरी के बारे में हमेशा अपशब्द बोलता था। वह उसे कभी 'मखौलभरी। सूचना देने वाला प्राणी' कभी उसे 'एक पागल व्यक्ति' कहता था। वास्तव में हैरी का उद्देश्य बेसी से शादी करने का नहीं बल्कि अपने पिता से पैसे ठगना था।
Answer: Harry ultimately left Bessie because his father, Captain Hagberd, acted contrary to Harry's expectations and failed to recognize him. The Captain also always spoke ill of Harry, sometimes calling him a 'mocking creature' and sometimes a 'madman'. Harry's true intention was not to marry Bessie, but rather to deceive his father for money. When his plan to trick his father failed, he had no reason to stay, leading him to abandon Bessie. He sought financial gain, not a relationship.
हैरी ने अन्त में बेसी को छोड़ दिया क्योंकि उसके पिता कप्तान हैगवर्ड ने उसकी आशाओं के विपरीत व्यवहार किया और उसे नहीं पहचाना। उसका पिता हैरी के बारे में हमेशा अपशब्द बोलता था। वह उसे कभी 'मखौलभरी सूचना देने वाला प्राणी' कभी उसे 'एक पागल व्यक्ति' कहता था। वास्तव में हैरी का उद्देश्य बेसी से शादी करने का नहीं बल्कि अपने पिता से पैसे ठगना था।
In simple words: Harry left Bessie because his father didn't recognize him and spoke badly about him. Harry's real goal was to trick his father for money, not to marry Bessie, so when his plan failed, he left.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze character exits by focusing on their true motivations and how the failure of their plans or unfulfilled expectations lead to their departure.

RBSE Class 12 English Prudence Short Stories Chapter 1 Long Answer Type Questions

Answer The Following Questions In 100 Words Each:

Question 1. Why did people of Colebrook not have a favourable opinion of Captain Hagberd?
कोलेब्लक के लोगों की कैप्टन हैगबर्ड के बारे में अच्छी धारणा क्यों नहीं थी ?
Answer: The people of Colebrook did not have a good opinion of Captain Hagberd for several reasons:
1. The long-term loss of his son had made him a stiff and rude person.
2. He used to ask everyone on the street, road, and in the market if they had seen his son. People started thinking he had gone mad.
3. He would buy items for interior decoration for his house, book the candlemaker and barber, saying his son would come home the next month. But Harry never came. When people asked why, he would say Harry would definitely return the next spring. People began to mock him because Harry never did return. His repetitive actions and unwavering delusion made him an object of ridicule.
कोलेब्ब्रुक के लोगों की कैप्टन के प्रति अच्छी धारणा नहीं थी क्योंकि –
1. पुत्र के खो जाने से वह लम्बे समय तक गॅवार तथा अशिष्ट व्यक्ति बना रहा।
2. वह गली में, सड़क पर तथा बाजार में प्रत्येक व्यक्ति से पूछता कि क्या उन्होंने उसके पुत्र को देखा है। लोग समझने लगे थे कि वह पागल हो गया है।
3. वह अपने घर की सजावट के लिए (बच्चे के आने में खुशी में) मोमबत्ती वाले को, नाई को बुक करता और कहता कि उसका लड़का अगले माह में आ जाएगा। परन्तु उसका पुत्र हैरी नहीं आया। जब लोग उसके न आने का कारण पूछते तो वह यही कहता कि वह अगले बसन्त में निश्चित आ जाएगा। लोग उसका मजाक उड़ाते क्योंकि हैरी वापस लौटकर नहीं आया था।
In simple words: People in Colebrook had a bad opinion of Captain Hagberd. He became rude after his son's loss and constantly asked everyone about his son, making people think he was mad. He kept buying decorations and expecting his son's return, always saying "next month" or "next spring," which made him a joke because his son never appeared.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing reasons for public perception, include specific actions or behaviours that led to that opinion and any consistent patterns of delusion.

Question 3. How did Bessie begin to share Hagberd's insanity regarding his son ?
हैगबर्ड के पुत्र के सम्बन्ध में बेसी किस प्रकार उसके पागलपन में भागीदार बनी ?
Answer: Captain Hagberd was obsessed with his son Harry, who had left home as a teenager sixteen years ago. Bessie herself had a tyrannical father and lived like a caged bird, frequently abused. Her father was dependent on her. She saw Captain Hagberd as a friend—civilized and compassionate. Bessie also knew that the Captain could not live alone without her. Therefore, she began to share Hagberd's delusion about his son. Whatever Mr Hagberd told her, she listened silently and sympathetically. Her understanding and empathy drew her into his world of hopeful madness.
कैप्टन हैगबर्ड अपने पुत्र हैरी के लिये अत्यधिक परेशान हैं जो 16 साल पूर्व वह अपनी किशोरावस्था में घर छोड़कर चला गया था। बेसी के पिता एक घरेलू निरंकुश हैं और वह एक पिंजड़े के पक्षी की तरह रह रही है तथा हमेशा पिता की गाली-गलौच से पीड़ित है। उसके पिता उस पर आश्रित हैं। वह हैगबर्ड को एक मित्र, सभ्य नागरिक, विनीत और कृपालु मनुष्य के रूप में देखती है। वह यह भी जानती है कि कैप्टन हैगबर्ड उसके बिना अकेले नहीं रह सकते। इस प्रकार वह उसके पुत्र के सम्बन्ध में हैगबर्ड के पागलपन में भागीदार बनने लगी। मि. हैगबर्ड उससे जो भी बातें करता, वह उसे शान्तिपूर्वक और सहानुभूतिपूर्वक सुनती।
In simple words: Bessie began to share Hagberd's delusion about his son because she felt sympathy for him and considered him a friend. She also had an abusive, dependent father, making her relate to Hagberd's loneliness and need for companionship. She listened to his stories quietly, becoming part of his hopeful world.

🎯 Exam Tip: To explain shared delusions, link one character's emotional vulnerability and empathy to another's persistent, albeit irrational, beliefs.

Question 4. "Every mental state, even madness, has its equilibrium based upon self-esteem. Its disturbance causes unhappiness." Explain.
“प्रत्येक मानसिक अवस्था, यहाँ तक कि पागलपन की भी संतुलित अवस्था होती है जो आत्म-सम्मान पर आधारित होती है। इसमें विचलन होने से अप्रसन्नता उत्पन्न हो जाती है।” विवेचना कीजिए।

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to explain a philosophical or psychological statement, connect it directly to the characters' experiences in the story, showing how their mental states and happiness are tied to their self-perception.

Question 5. Comment on the technique used by the author to unfold the story of Captain Hagberd's past.
Answer: The author uses a clever method to tell Captain Hagberd's past. He tells a 'story within a story' to show everything that happened before. Right at the start, the author mentions when Captain Hagberd moved to Colebrook. He moved after getting a letter saying his son was seen there. Captain Hagberd then built two plain yellow brick cottages in Colebrook. The story also tells us how Hagberd arrived in Colebrook from Colchester. A local barber then shared the full story of Hagberd's son running away. This layered approach helps readers understand the deep sadness and hope Captain Hagberd carries from his past. This way of telling the story mixes different styles. It includes internal thoughts, smaller stories, and shows how human feelings can be similar or different. This makes the storytelling interesting and deep.
In simple words: The author tells Captain Hagberd's past by using smaller stories inside the main one. This helps us learn about his son leaving and his move to Colebrook.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing narrative techniques, identify specific methods (like 'story within a story' or 'monologue') and explain how they affect the reader's understanding of the plot and characters.

Question 6. Identify instances in the story which you find streaks of insanity in people other than Hagberd? What implications do they suggest?
Answer: The story shows hints of strange behaviour in characters other than Captain Hagberd too. These instances highlight how strong emotions like hope, love, or self-interest can sometimes cloud judgment, making people act illogically.
**In Bessie Carvil:**
1. Bessie was easily fooled by Harry, even though he was trying to trick her. She did not realize his cunning nature.
2. Even after knowing Harry's wandering nature, she wanted to marry him. She could not get the idea of marriage out of her mind.
3. She gave money to Harry, which was unwise.
4. She knew Harry's true identity but did not tell Captain Hagberd, keeping the secret to herself.
**In Harry:**
1. Harry made a big mistake by not telling his father who he was. He kept his identity hidden.
2. He described himself as a 'Gambusino', which is a type of wanderer or rogue. This showed his unsettled and deceptive nature.
In simple words: Other people in the story also show a little bit of madness. Bessie lets Harry trick her and wants to marry him, even though he is a wanderer. Harry himself does not tell his father who he really is and calls himself a 'Gambusino', meaning a trickster.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to identify instances, provide clear examples from the text for each character and explain how these actions reveal their 'insanity' or illogical behavior.

Question 7. Discuss the role of the barber in the story"To-morrow”.
Answer: The barber in the story "Tomorrow" is quite important for how the plot develops and for showing Captain Hagberd's strange outlook. He often makes fun of Captain Hagberd in public, like in the New Inn. He laughs at the Captain's clothes and looks, which entertains others. The barber acts as a local narrator, providing background information and community perspective on Captain Hagberd's unusual life. He is the one who tells everyone how Hagberd's son left home, how his wife died, and why Hagberd came to Colebrook looking for his son. He also shares that Hagberd built a home there, always expecting his son to return "next month," a hope that later changed to "tomorrow."
In simple words: The barber plays a key role. He makes fun of Captain Hagberd to entertain people. He also tells the whole story of why Captain Hagberd is looking for his son and how he hopes his son will come back 'tomorrow'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on how supporting characters, like the barber, can move the plot forward, reveal character traits of others, or provide comic relief and social commentary.

Question 8. Draw a character sketch of Harry, Captain's son.
Answer: Harry appears towards the end of the story. At first, readers don't know if he is alive. We learn about him through talks between different characters. Captain Hagberd has a strange hopeful idea that Harry will return tomorrow and even plans for him to marry. Harry ran away from home as a child. When he finally appears, readers might expect a happy ending. However, Harry turns out to be a vagabond who does not want a stable life. Harry embodies the harsh reality that a parent's ideal image of a child can be far from the truth, causing deeper disappointment. In truth, he came to Colebrook to trick his father for money. When his plan fails, he runs away after taking money from Bessie.
In simple words: Harry is Captain Hagberd's son who ran away a long time ago. He is a wanderer who does not want a settled life. He comes back not to see his father, but to try and trick him for money. When his trick fails, he takes money from Bessie and leaves.

🎯 Exam Tip: A character sketch should describe the character's personality, actions, motivations, and impact on the story, supported by specific examples.

Question 9. Draw a character sketch of Captain Hagberd.
Answer: Captain Hagberd is the main character of the story. He used to be a sailor, a captain of a coal company ship. But he disliked sea life and always missed home. So, after he retired, he bought land and built two cottages in Colebrook. He was very harsh with his son, who left home at age fourteen. Hagberd settled in Colebrook because his son was last seen there, and he hoped his son would return one day. He develops a strange belief that his son will come back "tomorrow," but ironically, he doesn't even recognize Harry when he actually returns. Captain Hagberd's character highlights the destructive power of obsession and the way hope can sometimes blind us to reality.
In simple words: Captain Hagberd is the main person in the story. He was a sailor but hated the sea. After he retired, he moved to Colebrook and built homes, always hoping his son Harry would come back "tomorrow." He was so focused on this idea that he didn't even recognize Harry when he actually showed up.

🎯 Exam Tip: When sketching a main character, cover their background, key traits, how they change (or don't), and their central role in the plot, along with any symbolic meaning they carry.