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Importance of Skimble for Train Departure

Skimble is essential for the train's operation, supervising passengers and ensuring everything is in order, which keeps the atmosphere disciplined and comfortable. Passengers appreciate the cleanliness and service he provides, feeling safe during their journey. His presence is so crucial that the train cannot depart without him, and he reassures passengers with his diligent patrols and eventual promise to return.

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yajash2012
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59 views2 pages

Importance of Skimble for Train Departure

Skimble is essential for the train's operation, supervising passengers and ensuring everything is in order, which keeps the atmosphere disciplined and comfortable. Passengers appreciate the cleanliness and service he provides, feeling safe during their journey. His presence is so crucial that the train cannot depart without him, and he reassures passengers with his diligent patrols and eventual promise to return.

Uploaded by

yajash2012
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as TXT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Why can’t the train start without Skimble?

The train cannot start without Skimble because he is an essential part of the
railway system. Everyone depends on him, and his presence is necessary for the
train to be considered ready to depart.

b. In what way is Skimble in charge of the train?


Skimble supervises everything—he inspects all the passengers, checks compartments,
watches the guards and bagmen, and ensures everything is in order, just like a
strict railway officer.

c. Why are the passengers very quiet when Skimble is about?


The passengers are quiet because Skimble watches them without blinking, and his
presence demands discipline. He does not approve of noise or mischief.

d. What delights are there for the passengers of the train?


Passengers enjoy clean berths, folded sheets, no dust, adjustable lights, basins to
wash, polite service, and no disturbance by mice—all due to Skimble’s efforts.

e. In what way are the passengers comforted by Skimble’s presence?


They feel safe and comfortable knowing Skimble is in charge. He ensures that
nothing goes wrong during the journey, even while they are asleep.

f. What does Skimble do while the passengers are all safely asleep?
He stays awake, patrols the train, watches carefully, and makes sure everything is
running smoothly. He even has a cup of tea to stay fresh.

2. Answer the following with reference to context:

a. “Saying ‘Skimble where is Skimble has he gone to hunt the thimble … ?’”

i. Who is asking the question?


The guards, porters, and stationmaster’s daughters.

ii. What does ‘hunting the thimble’ refer to?


It humorously suggests that Skimble might be off playing or hiding somewhere—like
in a game—while he’s actually busy in the luggage van.

iii. Why is Skimble being searched for?


Because the train cannot depart without him.

iv. What cannot happen till he is found?


The train cannot start its journey.

v. When does Skimble eventually appear?


He appears just before departure, coming from the luggage van.

b. “Down the corridor he paces and examines all the faces …”

i. Who paces down the corridor?


Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat.

ii. Whose faces does he examine?


The passengers’ faces in the First and Third Class coaches.

iii. Why does he pace the corridor?


To ensure everything and everyone is in order.

iv. Why does he examine the faces?


To check for any problems, mischief, or unfamiliar faces.

v. What effect does this have on the passengers?


They behave quietly and feel reassured that the journey will go smoothly.

c. “Which says: ‘I’ll see you again!’”

i. Who or what says this?


Skimbleshanks, through the wave of his long brown tail.

ii. Who is going to be seen again?


The passengers or the readers—he promises he’ll return on another journey.

iii. With what is this message delivered?


With a wave of his tail.

iv. What is the complete message?


He says goodbye but also assures he’ll be back on the Midnight Mail, doing his duty
as the Railway

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