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Question
Explain the following line with reference to the context.
There may be a scrap of paper in the hall or on the stair
But it’s useless to investigate…
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Solution
- Reference: These words are from the poem “Macavity- the mysterious cat” written by T.S. Eliot.
- Context: The poet says these words while discussing the leftover pieces of evidence of the crime.
- Explanation: The Scotland yard police and the flying squads are guardians of peace in London. They keep watching. But whenever Macavity does a crime, he leaves before the police arrive. The clues like an empty larder, rifled jewel case, the disappearance of a treaty, or drawings from the office or admiralty may lead to some shredded bits of paper lying on the floor or the staircase. But these bits of paper can’t help the police nab Macavity. They know it is the work of Macavity but they are helpless.
- Comment: Not a trace is left behind by mysterious Macavity.
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