Question

Read the given extract and answer the questions briefly.

“I thought you picked fruit for a living,” I said. “We do many things, sir,” Nicola answered seriously. He glanced at us hopefully. “Often we show visitors through the town ... to Juliet’s tomb ... and other places of interest.” Alright, I smiled. “You take us along.” As we made the rounds, my interest was again provoked by their remarkable demeanour. They were childish enough and, in many ways, quite artless. Jacopo was as lively as a squirrel. Nicola’s smile was steady and engaging. Yet in both these boyish faces there was a seriousness which was far beyond their years. (Two Gentlemen of Verona)

1. What might have been the most likely tone of the statement in ‘I thought you picked fruit for a living…’? 
2. Why did Nicola glance hopefully at the narrator?
3. What does the boys’ willingness to engage in multiple tasks reveal about their attitude toward life?
4. What does the narrator’s growing interest in the boys suggest about his perception of them?

Answer 1

1. The tone could be curious/inquisitive or surprised. The narrator might have been genuinely interested in learning more about the boys’ work or surprised to discover that they engaged in multiple tasks beyond picking and selling fruit.
2. Nicola glanced hopefully at the narrator because he might have been expecting his interest in hiring him and Jacopo as guides. He likely saw it as an opportunity to earn more money, which would contribute to supporting their sister’s treatment.
3. Displays their adaptability and determination to overcome their difficult circumstance.
4. It suggests that he sees them as remarkable and intriguing, recognising a depth of character and maturity unusual for children of their age.