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The
Shelly
Cashman
Series
®

Concepts
& Office

Technology
for Success
Microsoft 365 &
® ®

Office 2021

Australia • Brazil • Canada • Mexico • Singapore • United Kingdom • United States

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
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some third party content may be suppressed. Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed
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Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman © 2023, 2020, 2017 Cengage Learning, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021 No part of this work covered by the copyright herein may be reproduced
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Brief Contents
Getting to Know Microsoft Office Versions��������������������������������������������������������������OFF-1
Using SAM Projects and Textbook Projects������������������������������������������������������������� SAM-1
Introduction to Technology for Success: Computer ­Concepts���������������������������������CC I-1

Computer Concepts
Module 1: Impact of Digital Technology���������������������������������������������������������������CC 1-1
Module 2: The Web�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������CC 2-1
Module 3: Computer Hardware������������������������������������������������������������������������������CC 3-1
Module 4: Operating Systems and File Management��������������������������������������������CC 4-1
Module 5: Software and Apps�������������������������������������������������������������������������������CC 5-1
Module 6: Security and Safety������������������������������������������������������������������������������CC 6-1

Word 2021
Module 1: Creating and Modifying a Flyer���������������������������������������������������������WD 1-1
Module 2: Creating a Research Paper�����������������������������������������������������������������WD 2-1
Module 3: Creating a Business Letter�����������������������������������������������������������������WD 3-1

PowerPoint 2021
Module 1: Creating and Editing Presentations with Pictures������������������������������� PPT 1-1
Module 2: Enhancing Presentations with Shapes and SmartArt������������������������� PPT 2-1
Module 3: Inserting WordArt, Charts, and Tables������������������������������������������������ PPT 3-1

iii
Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
iv Brief Contents Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021

Excel 2021
Module 1: Creating a Worksheet and a Chart��������������������������������������������������������EX 1-1
Module 2: Formulas, Functions, and Formatting����������������������������������������������������EX 2-1
Module 3: Working with Large Worksheets, Charting, and What-If Analysis�������EX 3-1

Access 2021
Module 1: Databases and Database Objects: An Introduction������������������������������ AC 1-1
Module 2: Querying a Database���������������������������������������������������������������������������� AC 2-1
Module 3: Maintaining a Database����������������������������������������������������������������������� AC 3-1

Index��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������IND-1

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
Contents
Getting to Know Microsoft Office Versions OFF-1
Using SAM Projects and Textbook Projects SAM-1
Introduction to Technology for Success: Computer ­Concepts CC I-1

Module TWO
Technology for Success: The Web
­Computer ­Concepts Module Objective: Complete research using information
gathered from reliable online sources.
Module ONE Explain the Role of the Web in Daily Life CC 2-2
Impact of Digital Technology Define Web Browsing Terms CC 2-2
Module Objective: Analyze the ways in which technology Explain the Purpose of a Top-Level Domain CC 2-5
has revolutionized the last quarter of the century. Describe Internet Standards CC 2-5
Explain Society’s Reliance on Technology CC 1-2 Describe Websites and Webpages CC 2-5
Outline the History of Computers CC 1-2 Identify the Types of Websites CC 2-6
Explain the Impact of the Internet of Things and Explain the Pros and Cons of Web Apps CC 2-8
Embedded Computers  CC 1-3 Identify the Major Components of a Webpage CC 2-9
ATMs and Kiosks CC 1-4 Identify Secure and Insecure Websites CC 2-10
IoT at Home CC 1-5 Use E-commerce CC 2-10
IoT in Business CC 1-5 Explain the Role of E-commerce in Daily Life CC 2-11
Discover Uses for Artificial Intelligence CC 1-6 Use E-commerce in Business Transactions CC 2-11
Explore the Impact of Virtual Reality  CC 1-6 Use E-commerce in Personal Transactions CC 2-12
The Digital Divide CC 1-7 Find E-commerce Deals CC 2-13
Develop Personal Uses for Technology CC 1-7 Apply Information Literacy Skills to Web
Explore Personal Uses for Technology CC 1-7 Searches CC 2-13
Use Robotics and Virtual Reality CC 1-8 Define Information Literacy CC 2-14
Utilize Technology in Daily Life CC 1-9 Explain How Search Engines Work CC 2-14
Use Technology to Assist Users with Disabilities CC 1-10 Use Search Tools and Strategies CC 2-14
Apply Green Computing Concepts to Daily Life CC 1-11 Refine Web Searches CC 2-15
Enterprise Computing CC 1-12 Conduct Online Research CC 2-17
Explain the Role of Technology Use Specialty Search Engines CC 2-17
in the Professional World CC 1-13 Evaluate Online Information CC 2-18
List the Ways that Professionals Might Gather Content from Online Sources CC 2-19
Use Technology in the Workplace CC 1-13 Apply Information Literacy Standards CC 2-21
Technology in K-12 Education CC 1-13 Summary CC 2-22
Technology in Higher Education CC 1-13 Review Questions CC 2-23
Technology in Healthcare CC 1-13 Discussion Questions CC 2-24
Technology in the Transportation Industry CC 1-13 Critical Thinking Activities CC 2-24
Technology in Manufacturing CC 1-14 Key Terms CC 2-25
Explore Technology Careers CC 1-14
Explore How You Might Prepare for a Module Three
Career in Technology  CC 1-16 Computer Hardware
Summary CC 1-18 Module Objective: Demonstrate familiarity with using
Review Questions CC 1-18 and maintaining computer hardware.
Discussion Questions CC 1-19 Categorize the Various Types of Computer
Critical Thinking Activities CC 1-19 Hardware CC 3-2
Key Terms CC 1-19 Define Each Component of Computer Hardware CC 3-2
v
Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
vi Contents Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021

Visually Identify Types of Computer Hardware CC 3-4 Module five


Explain How Computers Represent Data CC 3-5
Software and Apps
Explain the Benefits of Internal, External,
Module Objective: Demonstrate familiarity with
and Cloud-Based Storage Solutions CC 3-6
common apps and productivity software.
Explain the Pros and Cons of Using Different Types
Explain How to Use Apps as Part of
of Computers, Including All-in-Ones, Tablets,
Your Daily Life CC 5-2
Mobile Devices, and Desktop Computers CC 3-7
Define Application Software CC 5-2
Determine Which Hardware Features Are
Describe the Purpose of Each Key Type of App CC 5-3
Personally Necessary to Consider When
Describe Types of Apps CC 5-3
Purchasing a Computer CC 3-9
Identify Common Features of Apps CC 5-4
Demonstrate Familiarity with Input and
Use Mobile Apps CC 5-5
Output Devices CC 3-14
Use Common Features of Productivity
Experiment with Input Devices CC 3-14
and Graphics Apps CC 5-9
Experiment with Output Devices CC 3-16
Identify Apps and Productivity Suites
Explain How to Install Computer Hardware CC 3-17
Related to Word Processing, Spreadsheet,
Maintain Hardware Components CC 3-18
Presentation, and Database Software CC 5-10
Measure the Performance of Computer Hardware CC 3-18
Use Word Processing Software for Basic
Explain How to Troubleshoot Problems
Word Processing Functions CC 5-11
with Hardware and Peripherals CC 3-18
Format Documents Using Word Processing
Explain the Necessary Steps to Maintain
Software CC 5-13
Computer Hardware CC 3-25
Use Spreadsheet Software to Manage
Explain How to Restore a Device and Its
Basic Workbooks CC 5-14
Associated Hardware and Software CC 3-26
Use Presentation Software to Create
Summary CC 3-27
and Share Presentations CC 5-19
Review Questions CC 3-27
Use Database Software to Manage
Discussion Questions CC 3-28
Basic Databases CC 5-24
Critical Thinking Activities CC 3-28
Use Graphics Software CC 5-28
Key Terms CC 3-28
Summary CC 5-32
Review Questions CC 5-33
Module four Discussion Questions CC 5-33
Operating Systems and Critical Thinking Activities CC 5-34
File Management Key Terms CC 5-34
Module Objective: Keep your chosen operating
systems running smoothly, through personalization Module six
and maintenance.
Security and Safety
Compare Operating Systems CC 4-2
Module Objective: Safeguard against the major health
Differentiate Between an Operating System
and safety risks associated with regular computer use.
and System Software CC 4-2
Discuss Computer Safety and Health Risks CC 6-2
Differentiate Between Operating Systems CC 4-3
Determine the Risks to Computer Security
Identify Desktop Components  CC 4-5
and Safety CC 6-3
Explain How an Operating System Works CC 4-7
Understand the Risks to Physical, Behavioral,
The Purpose of an Operating System CC 4-7
and Social Health  CC 6-5
How an Operating System Manages Memory CC 4-8
Describe Common Cybersecurity Attacks  CC 6-8
Steps in the Boot Process CC 4-8
Use Protective Measures to Safeguard
How Operating Systems Manage Input and Output CC 4-9
Computers and Data  CC 6-12
Personalize an Operating System to
Explain the Steps to Protect Computer
Increase Productivity CC 4-10
Equipment CC 6-12
Customize System Software CC 4-10
Protect Mobile Devices and Your Privacy  CC 6-15
Customize Hardware Using System Software CC 4-11
Use Strong Authentication  CC 6-17
Manage Desktop Windows CC 4-12
Explain the Benefits of Encryption  CC 6-20
Use Administrative Tools  CC 4-13
Discuss Measures to Prevent Identity Theft
Manage Files and Folders CC 4-16
and Protect Financial Information CC 6-21
Compress and Uncompress Files CC 4-16
Protect Yourself While Online  CC 6-23
Save Files to Folders and File Systems CC 4-16
Summary CC 6-24
Determine File Properties CC 4-17
Review Questions CC 6-25
Manage File Names and File Placement  CC 4-18
Discussion Questions CC 6-26
Manage Folder Names and Folder Placement CC 4-18
Critical Thinking Activities CC 6-26
Organize Files Using File Management Tools CC 4-19
Key Terms CC 6-26
Summary CC 4-20
References CC 6-27
Review Questions CC 4-20
Discussion Questions CC 4-21
Critical Thinking Activities CC 4-21
Key Terms CC 4-21

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021 Contents vii

Selecting Text WD 1-48


To Save an Existing Document with
Microsoft Word 2021 a Different File Name WD 1-49
Inserting and Formatting a Picture in a
Module ONE Word Document WD 1-50
Creating and Modifying a Flyer To Center a Paragraph WD 1-51
What Is Word? WD 1-1 To Insert a Picture from a File WD 1-51
Introduction WD 1-2 To Change the Zoom to One Page WD 1-53
Project: Flyer with a Picture WD 1-2 To Resize an Object Proportionally WD 1-53
Starting and Using Word WD 1-3 To Apply a Picture Style WD 1-55
To Start Word and Create a Blank Document WD 1-3 To Apply a Picture Effect WD 1-56
The Word Window WD 1-5 Enhancing the Page WD 1-57
To Display a Different Tab on the Ribbon WD 1-10 To Change Theme Colors WD 1-58
To Adjust the Margins WD 1-11 To Add a Page Border WD 1-59
Entering Text in a Document WD 1-12 To Change Spacing before and after Paragraphs WD 1-60
To Type Text WD 1-12 To Change the Document Properties WD 1-61
To Change the Zoom to Page Width WD 1-13 To Save an Existing Document with
To Display Formatting Marks WD 1-14 the Same File Name WD 1-62
Wordwrap WD 1-14 To Close a Document WD 1-63
To Wordwrap Text as You Type WD 1-15 Correcting Errors and Revising a Document WD 1-64
Spelling and Grammar Check WD 1-15 Types of Changes Made to Documents WD 1-64
To Enter More Text with Spelling To Open a Document WD 1-64
and Grammar Errors WD 1-16 To Change the Zoom to Page Width WD 1-65
To Check Spelling and Grammar To Insert Text in an Existing Document WD 1-65
as You Work in a Document WD 1-16 Cutting, Copying, and Pasting WD 1-66
To Insert a Blank Line WD 1-18 To Delete or Cut Text WD 1-66
To Enter More Text WD 1-19 To Copy and Paste WD 1-67
Navigating a Document WD 1-20 To Display the Paste Options Menu WD 1-68
To Save a Document for the First Time WD 1-21 To Move Text WD 1-69
Formatting Paragraphs and Characters WD 1-23 To Switch to Read Mode WD 1-70
Font, Font Sizes, and Themes WD 1-24 To Switch to Print Layout View WD 1-71
To Change the Document Theme WD 1-25 To Save a Document with the Same File Name WD 1-71
To Center a Paragraph WD 1-27 To Print a Document WD 1-71
To Center Another Paragraph WD 1-28 Using Word Help WD 1-72
Formatting Single versus Multiple To Use the Search Box WD 1-73
Paragraphs and Characters WD 1-28 To Use the Help Pane WD 1-74
To Select a Line WD 1-28 Obtaining Help while Working in Word WD 1-75
To Change the Font Size of Selected Text WD 1-29 To Sign Out of a Microsoft Account WD 1-75
To Change the Font of Selected Text WD 1-30 To Exit Word WD 1-76
To Change the Case of Selected Text WD 1-31 Summary WD 1-77
To Apply a Preset Text Effect to Selected Text WD 1-32 Apply Your Knowledge WD 1-78
To Shade a Paragraph WD 1-33 Extend Your Knowledge WD 1-80
To Select a Paragraph WD 1-34 Expand Your World WD 1-82
To Change the Font Color of Selected Text WD 1-35 In the Lab WD 1-84
To Change the Font Size of Selected Text WD 1-35
To Change the Zoom Percentage WD 1-36 Module two
To Select Multiple Lines WD 1-37 Creating a Research Paper
To Change the Font Size of Selected Text WD 1-38 Introduction WD 2-1
To Number a List of Paragraphs WD 1-38 Project: Research Paper WD 2-1
To Undo and Redo an Action WD 1-40 MLA Documentation Style WD 2-2
To Bullet a List of Paragraphs WD 1-40 Changing Document Settings WD 2-4
AutoFormat As You Type WD 1-42 To Start Word and Specify Settings WD 2-4
To Remove a Hyperlink WD 1-42 Styles WD 2-4
To Center Another Paragraph WD 1-43 To Modify a Style WD 2-5
To Use the Mini Toolbar to Format Text WD 1-43 Adjusting Line and Paragraph Spacing WD 2-6
To Select a Group of Words WD 1-45 To Change Line Spacing WD 2-6
To Underline Text WD 1-45 To Remove Space after a Paragraph WD 2-7
To Italicize Text WD 1-46 To Update a Style to Match a Selection WD 2-8
To Select Nonadjacent Text WD 1-47 Creating a Header WD 2-8
To Bold Text WD 1-48 To Insert a Header WD 2-9

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
viii Contents Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021

To Right-Align a Paragraph WD 2-10 To Insert Another Comment WD 2-59


To Enter Text in a Header WD 2-10 To Go To a Comment WD 2-59
To Insert Page Numbers WD 2-10 To Edit a Comment in a Comment Box WD 2-60
To Close the Header WD 2-12 To Go to a Comment WD 2-60
Typing the Research Paper Text WD 2-12 To Reply to a Comment WD 2-61
To Enter Name and Course Information WD 2-13 To Hide and Show Comments WD 2-61
To Click and Type WD 2-14 To Delete a Comment WD 2-62
Keyboard Shortcuts for Formatting Text WD 2-15 To Delete All Comments WD 2-62
To Format Text Using a Keyboard Shortcut WD 2-15 To Exit Word WD 2-63
To Display the Rulers WD 2-16 Summary WD 2-63
To First-Line Indent Paragraphs WD 2-16 Apply Your Knowledge WD 2-64
To AutoCorrect as You Type WD 2-18 Extend Your Knowledge WD 2-65
To Use the AutoCorrect Options Button WD 2-18 Expand Your World WD 2-68
To Create an AutoCorrect Entry WD 2-19 In the Lab WD 2-69
The AutoCorrect Dialog Box WD 2-20
To Enter More Text WD 2-21 Module three
Citations WD 2-22 Creating a Business Letter
To Change the Bibliography Style WD 2-22 Introduction WD 3-1
To Insert a Citation for a New Source WD 2-23 Project: Business Letter WD 3-1
To Enter More Text WD 2-25 To Start Word and Change Word Settings WD 3-3
Footnotes WD 2-25 Creating a Letterhead WD 3-4
To Insert a Footnote WD 2-26 To Insert a Shape WD 3-5
To Insert a Citation Placeholder WD 2-27 Floating versus Inline Objects WD 3-6
Footnote Text Style WD 2-28 To Change an Object’s Position WD 3-7
To Modify a Style Using a Shortcut Menu WD 2-28 To Change an Object’s Text Wrapping WD 3-8
To Edit a Source WD 2-30 To Apply a Shape Style WD 3-8
To Edit a Citation WD 2-32 To Change the Shape Outline WD 3-9
Working with Footnotes and Endnotes WD 2-33 To Apply a Shape Effect WD 3-10
To Enter More Text WD 2-34 To Add Text to a Shape WD 3-10
To Count Words WD 2-34 To Use the ‘Increase Font Size’ Button WD 3-11
Automatic Page Breaks WD 2-35 To Bold Selected Text and Save the
To Enter More Text and Insert a Letterhead Document WD 3-12
Citation Placeholder WD 2-35 To Insert an Online Picture WD 3-12
To Hide and Show White Space WD 2-35 To Resize a Picture to a Percent of the
To Edit a Source WD 2-37 Original Size WD 3-14
To Enter More Text WD 2-38 To Change the Color of a Picture WD 3-15
Creating an Alphabetical Works Cited Page WD 2-38 To Adjust the Brightness and Contrast
To Insert a Page Break WD 2-39 of a Picture WD 3-16
To Apply a Style WD 2-39 To Add a Picture Border  WD 3-16
To Center Text WD 2-40 To Change an Object’s Text Wrapping WD 3-17
To Create a Bibliographical Reference List WD 2-40 To Move an Object  WD 3-18
Proofreading and Revising the Research Paper WD 2-42 To Copy an Object WD 3-18
To Edit a Source Using the Source To Use Paste Options to Paste an Object  WD 3-18
Manager Dialog Box WD 2-43 To Move an Object WD 3-19
To Update a Field (the Bibliography) WD 2-43 To Flip an Object WD 3-19
To Open the Navigation Pane WD 2-45 To Format and Enter Text WD 3-20
To Go to a Page WD 2-45 To Insert a Symbol from the Symbol
To Insert a Citation Using an Existing Source WD 2-46 Gallery  WD 3-20
To Move a Citation WD 2-47 To Enter Text WD 3-21
To Find Text WD 2-47 To Add a Paragraph Border WD 3-21
To Replace Text WD 2-48 To Clear Formatting  WD 3-22
Find and Replace Dialog Box WD 2-49 Creating a Business Letter WD 3-23
To Use the Thesaurus WD 2-49 To Save a Document with a New
To Check Spelling and Grammar at Once WD 2-50 File Name WD 3-24
The Main and Custom Dictionaries WD 2-52 To Apply a Style  WD 3-24
To Save and Print the Document WD 2-53 Using Tab Stops to Align Text WD 3-25
To Look Up Information WD 2-54 To Display the Ruler WD 3-26
To Use Researcher WD 2-54 To Set Custom Tab Stops WD 3-26
To Change the Zoom to Multiple Pages WD 2-55 To Insert the Current Date in a Document WD 3-27
To Change Read Mode Color WD 2-56 To Enter the Inside Address and Salutation WD 3-28
Working with Comments in a Document WD 2-57 Tables WD 3-29
To Insert a Comment WD 2-57 To Insert an Empty Table WD 3-30

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021 Contents ix

To Enter Data in a Table WD 3-31 Formatting Characters PPT 1-16


To Enter More Data in a Table WD 3-32 Fonts and Font Styles PPT 1-16
To Apply a Table Style WD 3-32 To Select a Paragraph PPT 1-16
To Select a Column WD 3-34 To Italicize Text PPT 1-17
Selecting Table Contents WD 3-35 To Increase Font Size PPT 1-17
To Insert a Row in a Table WD 3-35 To Select a Word PPT 1-17
Deleting Table Data WD 3-37 To Change the Text Color PPT 1-18
To Add More Text WD 3-37 To Zoom a Slide PPT 1-19
To Bullet a List as You Type WD 3-38 To Save a Presentation for the First Time PPT 1-19
To Enter More Text and then Save the Letter WD 3-39 Adding a Slide with a Bulleted List PPT 1-22
Working with SmartArt Graphics WD 3-39 To Add a New Title and Content Slide PPT 1-22
To Insert a Page Break WD 3-39 Creating a Multilevel Bulleted List PPT 1-23
To Enter and Format Text WD 3-40 To Enter a Slide Title PPT 1-23
To Add and Format a Paragraph Border WD 3-41 To Select a Text Placeholder PPT 1-24
To Clear Formatting WD 3-43 To Type a Multilevel Bulleted List PPT 1-24
To Apply a Style and Enter More Text WD 3-43 To Type the Remaining Text PPT 1-26
To Change the Underline Style WD 3-44 To Select a Group of Words PPT 1-26
To Use the Format Painter Button WD 3-45 To Bold Text PPT 1-27
SmartArt Graphics WD 3-46 To Increase Font Size PPT 1-27
To Insert a SmartArt Graphic WD 3-47 To Underline Text PPT 1-27
To Delete Shapes from a SmartArt Graphic WD 3-49 Adding Slides, Changing Slide Layouts, and
To Add Text to Shapes in a SmartArt Graphic WD 3-50 Changing the Theme PPT 1-28
To Add a Shape to a SmartArt Graphic WD 3-51 To Add a New Slide and Enter a Slide Title
To Add More Shapes and Text to a and Headings PPT 1-28
SmartArt Graphic WD 3-52 To Change the Font PPT 1-30
To Change Colors of a SmartArt Graphic WD 3-54 To Add a Slide with the Title Only Layout PPT 1-31
To Apply a SmartArt Style WD 3-55 To Enter a Slide Title PPT 1-32
To Resize the SmartArt Graphic WD 3-55 To Change the Theme PPT 1-32
To Save and Print the Letter WD 3-56 PowerPoint Views PPT 1-34
Enhancing a Document’s Accessibility WD 3-56 To Move to Another Slide in Normal View PPT 1-34
Addressing and Printing Envelopes and Inserting, Resizing, and Moving Pictures PPT 1-36
Mailing Labels WD 3-57 To Insert a Picture into a Slide without a
To Address and Print an Envelope WD 3-57 Content Placeholder PPT 1-36
Envelopes and Labels WD 3-58 To Insert another Picture into a Slide without
Summary WD 3-59 a Content Placeholder PPT 1-38
Apply Your Knowledge WD 3-60 To Insert Another Picture into a Slide without
Extend Your Knowledge WD 3-62 a Content Placeholder PPT 1-38
Expand Your World WD 3-64 To Insert a Picture into a Content
In the Lab WD 3-65 Placeholder PPT 1-39
Resizing Photos and Illustrations PPT 1-39
To Proportionally Resize Pictures PPT 1-40
To Resize the Picture on Slide 2 PPT 1-41
Microsoft PowerPoint 2021 To Resize the Picture on Slide 4 PPT 1-41
To Move Pictures PPT 1-42
Module ONE To Insert Another Picture into a Slide
Creating and Editing Presentations without a Content Placeholder PPT 1-43
with Pictures To Rotate a Picture PPT 1-43
What Is PowerPoint? PPT 1-1 To Nonproportionally Resize the Picture
Project: Presentation with a Bulleted List on Slide 2 PPT 1-44
and Pictures PPT 1-2 To Move a Slide in Normal View PPT 1-46
Starting and Using PowerPoint PPT 1-3 To Save a Presentation with the
To Start PowerPoint and Create a Blank Same File Name PPT 1-46
Presentation PPT 1-3 To Close a File Using Backstage View PPT 1-47
The PowerPoint Window PPT 1-5 To Open a Recent File Using Backstage View PPT 1-47
To Display a Different Tab on the Ribbon PPT 1-10 Making Changes to Slide Text Content PPT 1-48
Creating a Title Slide PPT 1-11 Replacing Text in an Existing Slide PPT 1-49
To Choose a Presentation Theme PPT 1-11 Deleting Text PPT 1-49
To Enter the Presentation Title PPT 1-13 To Delete Text in a Placeholder PPT 1-49
Correcting a Mistake When Typing PPT 1-14 To Change the Theme Colors PPT 1-50
Paragraphs PPT 1-14 To Add Notes PPT 1-51
To Enter the Presentation Subtitle Paragraph PPT 1-14 Checking Spelling PPT 1-52
To Zoom a Slide PPT 1-15 To Check Spelling PPT 1-53

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
x Contents Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021

Document Properties PPT 1-54 To Select Shapes PPT 2-34


Changing Views PPT 1-55 To Format Shape Text PPT 2-34
To Change Views PPT 1-55 To Change a Shape Fill Color PPT 2-35
Viewing the Presentation in Slide Show View PPT 1-56 Positioning Slide Elements PPT 2-36
To Start Slide Show View PPT 1-56 Aligning and Distributing Objects PPT 2-37
To Move Manually through Slides in a To Display the Drawing Guides PPT 2-38
Slide Show PPT 1-58 To Display the Ruler PPT 2-38
Saving and Printing Files PPT 1-59 To Display the Gridlines PPT 2-39
To Save a File with a Different File Name PPT 1-59 To Position a Shape Using Guides, Gridlines,
To Print Full Page Slides PPT 1-59 and the Ruler PPT 2-40
To Preview and Print a Handout PPT 1-61 To Position the Remaining Shapes PPT 2-41
To Print Speaker Notes PPT 1-62 To Distribute Shapes PPT 2-41
To Change the Print Color PPT 1-63 To Align a Shape PPT 2-42
Using PowerPoint Help PPT 1-64 To Position the Arrow Shape PPT 2-43
To Obtain Help Using the Help Pane PPT 1-64 To Flip a Shape PPT 2-44
Obtaining Help while Working in PowerPoint PPT 1-66 To Change the Stacking Order PPT 2-44
To Obtain Help Using the Search Box PPT 1-67 To Group Objects PPT 2-45
To Sign Out of a Microsoft Account PPT 1-67 To Insert Additional Shapes PPT 2-46
Summary PPT 1-68 To Merge Shapes PPT 2-47
Apply Your Knowledge PPT 1-69 To Hide the Grid and Guides PPT 2-48
Extend Your Knowledge PPT 1-71 To Hide Rulers PPT 2-48
Expand Your World PPT 1-72 To Apply a Picture Fill to a Shape PPT 2-49
In the Lab PPT 1-73 To Change a Shape Outline Weight PPT 2-50
To Change a Shape Outline Color PPT 2-51
Module two To Change a Shape Outline Style PPT 2-52
Enhancing Presentations with Shapes To Apply an Effect to a Shape PPT 2-52
and SmartArt To Rotate a Shape to an Exact Value PPT 2-53
Introduction PPT 2-1 To Add a Slide Title PPT 2-54
Project—Presentation with SmartArt and Shapes PPT 2-1 To Add and Format a Shape PPT 2-54
Downloading a Theme and Editing Slides PPT 2-3 Adding a Footer PPT 2-55
To Search for and Download an To Add a Footer with Fixed Information PPT 2-55
Online Theme PPT 2-3 Adding a Transition PPT 2-56
To Save the Presentation PPT 2-5 To Add a Transition between Slides PPT 2-57
To Delete a Slide PPT 2-5 To Save and Print the Presentation PPT 2-59
To Create a Title Slide PPT 2-7 Summary PPT 2-59
To Align a Paragraph PPT 2-7 Apply Your Knowledge PPT 2-60
To Create the First Text Slide PPT 2-8 Extend Your Knowledge PPT 2-63
To Insert a Symbol PPT 2-9 Expand Your World PPT 2-64
To Copy a Symbol PPT 2-11 In the Lab PPT 2-66
To Add a Hyperlink to a Paragraph PPT 2-12
Creating and Formatting a SmartArt Graphic PPT 2-13 Module three
To Convert Text to a SmartArt Graphic PPT 2-14 Inserting WordArt, Charts, and Tables
To Edit SmartArt Shape Text PPT 2-15 Introduction PPT 3-1
Text Pane PPT 2-16 Project—Presentation with WordArt, a Chart,
To Edit SmartArt Bulleted Text PPT 2-17 and a Table PPT 3-1
To Format Text Pane Characters PPT 2-18 Adding a Chart to a Slide and Formatting PPT 3-3
To Change the SmartArt Layout PPT 2-19 To Run PowerPoint, Apply a Theme, and
To Edit the Title Text PPT 2-21 Save the Presentation PPT 3-3
To Duplicate a Slide PPT 2-21 To Delete a Placeholder PPT 3-4
To Insert a SmartArt Graphic PPT 2-22 To Insert a Chart PPT 3-5
To Add Text to the SmartArt Graphic PPT 2-23 To Replace Sample Data PPT 3-6
To Apply a SmartArt Style PPT 2-24 To Resize a Chart PPT 3-8
Inserting and Formatting a Shape PPT 2-25 To Align a Chart PPT 3-9
To Insert a Shape PPT 2-25 To Change a Chart Style PPT 3-10
Resizing Shapes PPT 2-27 To Change the Shape Outline Color PPT 3-11
To Resize a Shape Proportionally PPT 2-28 To Change the Shape Outline Weight PPT 3-12
To Resize a Shape Nonproportionally by To Change the Title and Legend Font and
Entering an Exact Measurement PPT 2-28 Font Size PPT 3-13
To Select All Slide Content PPT 2-30 Adding a Table to a Slide and Formatting PPT 3-13
To Apply a Shape Style PPT 2-31 Tables PPT 3-14
To Copy and Paste a Shape PPT 2-32 To Insert an Empty Table PPT 3-14
To Add Text to a Shape PPT 2-33 To Enter Data in a Table PPT 3-15

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021 Contents xi

To Apply a Table Style PPT 3-16


To Add Borders to a Table
To Add an Effect to a Table
PPT 3-17
PPT 3-18
Microsoft Excel 2021
To Insert a Table Row PPT 3-19
Module ONE
To Insert a Table Column PPT 3-20
To Resize a Table PPT 3-21
Creating a Worksheet and a Chart
Objectives EX 1-1
To Align a Table PPT 3-22
Introduction EX 1-1
To Add a Slide Title PPT 3-23
Project: Real Estate Budget Worksheet and Chart EX 1-1
Inserting and Formatting a Text Box PPT 3-23
Starting and Using Excel EX 1-4
To Insert a Text Box and Format Text PPT 3-23
What Is Excel? EX 1-4
To Format Text Box Characters PPT 3-24
To Start Excel and Create a Blank Workbook EX 1-5
Inserting and Moving Slides PPT 3-26
The Excel Window EX 1-7
To Reuse Slides from an
To Display a Different Tab on the Ribbon EX 1-12
Existing Presentation PPT 3-27
Selecting a Cell EX 1-12
To Move a Slide in Slide Sorter View PPT 3-29
Entering Text EX 1-12
Inserting Pictures and Adding Effects PPT 3-30
To Enter the Worksheet Titles EX 1-13
To Delete a Picture PPT 3-30
AutoCorrect EX 1-15
To Insert and Resize a Picture into a Slide
To Enter Column Titles EX 1-15
without Content Placeholders PPT 3-31
To Enter Row Titles EX 1-17
To Crop a Picture PPT 3-31
Entering Numbers EX 1-18
Adjusting Picture Colors PPT 3-33
To Enter Numbers EX 1-18
To Color a Picture PPT 3-34
Calculating Sums and Using Formulas EX 1-20
To Add an Artistic Effect to a Picture PPT 3-35
To Sum a Column of Numbers EX 1-20
To Change the Picture Softness PPT 3-36
Using the Fill Handle to Copy
To Apply a Picture Style PPT 3-37
a Cell to Adjacent Cells EX 1-21
To Size a Picture PPT 3-37
To Copy a Cell to Adjacent Cells in a Row EX 1-22
To Move a Picture PPT 3-38
To Calculate Multiple Totals at the Same Time EX 1-24
To Align Pictures PPT 3-39
Calculating Average, Maximum, and
Creating and Formatting WordArt PPT 3-40
Minimum Values EX 1-25
To Insert WordArt PPT 3-40
To Enter a Formula Using the Keyboard EX 1-26
To Change the WordArt Shape PPT 3-41
To Copy a Cell to Adjacent Cells in a Row
To Change the WordArt 3-D Rotation Effect PPT 3-43
Using the Fill Handle EX 1-27
To Change the WordArt Text Fill Color PPT 3-44
Saving the Project EX 1-27
To Change the WordArt Text Outline Color PPT 3-44
To Save a Workbook EX 1-28
To Convert Text to WordArt PPT 3-45
Formatting the Worksheet EX 1-30
To Resize WordArt Proportionally PPT 3-45
Font Style, Size, and Color EX 1-32
Animating Slide Content PPT 3-46
To Change a Cell Style EX 1-32
Custom Animations PPT 3-46
To Change the Font EX 1-34
To Animate an Object Using
To Apply Bold Style to a Cell EX 1-35
an Entrance Effect PPT 3-47
To Increase the Font Size of a Cell Entry EX 1-36
To Change Animation Direction PPT 3-47
To Change the Font Color of a Cell Entry EX 1-37
To Change the Animation Start Option PPT 3-48
To Center Cell Entries across Columns
To Preview an Animation Sequence PPT 3-49
by Merging Cells EX 1-38
To Change the Animation Duration PPT 3-49
To Format Rows Using Cell Styles EX 1-39
To Animate Text PPT 3-50
To Format Numbers in the Worksheet EX 1-41
To Change the Animation Sequence
To Adjust the Column Width EX 1-42
Effect Option PPT 3-50
To Use the Name Box to Select a Cell EX 1-44
Adding Media to Slides PPT 3-51
Other Ways to Select Cells EX 1-44
To Insert a Video File PPT 3-52
Adding a Pie Chart to the Worksheet EX 1-45
To Resize a Video Clip PPT 3-53
To Add a Pie Chart EX 1-46
To Move a Video Clip PPT 3-54
To Apply a Style to a Chart EX 1-48
To Change Video Contrast PPT 3-54
Changing the Sheet Tab Names and Colors EX 1-49
To Play a Video File Automatically PPT 3-55
To Move a Chart to a New Sheet EX 1-49
To Add a Transition between Slides PPT 3-56
To Change the Sheet Tab Name and Color EX 1-50
To Run a Slide Show with Animations
Document Properties EX 1-51
and Video PPT 3-56
Printing a Worksheet EX 1-52
To Save and Print the Presentation PPT 3-57
To Preview and Print a Worksheet in
Summary PPT 3-57
Landscape Orientation EX 1-53
Apply Your Knowledge PPT 3-58
Viewing Automatic Calculations EX 1-56
Extend Your Knowledge PPT 3-60
To Use the AutoCalculate Area to
Expand Your World PPT 3-61
Determine a Maximum EX 1-56
In the Lab PPT 3-62

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
xii Contents Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021

Correcting Errors EX 1-57 To Change the Background Color and


Correcting Errors while Entering Data Apply a Box Border to the Worksheet
into a Cell EX 1-57 Title and Subtitle EX 2-26
Correcting Errors after Entering Data into a Cell EX 1-57 To Apply a Cell Style to the Column Headings
Undoing the Last Cell Entry EX 1-59 and Format the Total Rows EX 2-27
Clearing a Cell or Range of Cells EX 1-59 To Format Dates and Center Data in Cells EX 2-28
Clearing the Entire Worksheet EX 1-60 To Apply an Accounting Number Format
Using Excel Help EX 1-60 and Comma Style Format Using
To Obtain Help Using the Search Text Box EX 1-61 the Ribbon EX 2-29
Obtaining Help while Working in an To Apply a Currency Style Format with a
Office App EX 1-63 Floating Dollar Sign Using the
To Obtain Help Using the Search Box EX 1-63 Format Cells Dialog Box EX 2-30
To Save a Workbook with a To Apply a Percent Style Format and Use the
Different File Name EX 1-64 Increase Decimal Button EX 2-31
To Sign Out of a Microsoft Account EX 1-64 Conditional Formatting EX 2-31
Summary EX 1-65 To Apply Conditional Formatting EX 2-32
Apply Your Knowledge EX 1-66 Conditional Formatting Operators EX 2-34
Extend Your Knowledge EX 1-68 Changing Column Width and Row Height EX 2-35
Expand Your World EX 1-69 To Change Column Width EX 2-35
In the Lab EX 1-69 To Change Row Height EX 2-38
Checking Spelling EX 2-39
Module TWO To Check Spelling on the Worksheet EX 2-40
Formulas, Functions, and Formatting Additional Spelling Checker Considerations EX 2-41
Objectives EX 2-1 Printing the Worksheet EX 2-41
Introduction EX 2-1 To Change the Worksheet’s Margins, Header,
Project: Worksheet with Formulas and Functions EX 2-2 and Orientation in Page Layout View EX 2-42
Entering the Titles and Numbers into To Print a Worksheet EX 2-44
the Worksheet EX 2-4 To Print a Section of the Worksheet EX 2-45
To Enter the Worksheet Title and Subtitle EX 2-4 Displaying and Printing the Formulas Version
To Enter the Column Titles EX 2-5 of the Worksheet EX 2-46
To Enter the Salary Data EX 2-5 To Display the Formulas in the Worksheet
Flash Fill EX 2-6 and Fit the Printout on One Page EX 2-47
To Use Flash Fill EX 2-7 To Change the Print Scaling Option Back
To Enter the Row Titles EX 2-8 to 100% EX 2-48
To Change the Sheet Tab Name and Color EX 2-8 Summary EX 2-49
Entering Formulas EX 2-9 Apply Your Knowledge EX 2-50
To Enter a Formula Using the Keyboard EX 2-9 Extend Your Knowledge EX 2-51
Arithmetic Operations EX 2-10 Expand Your World EX 2-52
Order of Operations EX 2-10 In the Lab EX 2-53
To Enter Formulas Using Point Mode EX 2-11
To Copy Formulas Using the Fill Handle EX 2-13 Module THREE
Option Buttons EX 2-14 Working with Large Worksheets,
To Determine Totals Using the Charting, and What-If Analysis
AutoSum Button EX 2-14 Objectives EX 3-1
To Determine the Total Tax Percentage EX 2-15 Introduction EX 3-1
Using the AVERAGE, MAX, MIN, and Project: Financial Projection Worksheet with
Other Statistical Functions EX 2-16 What-If Analysis and Chart EX 3-2
To Determine the Highest Number in a To Enter the Worksheet Titles and
Range of Numbers Using the Apply a Theme EX 3-5
Insert Function Dialog Box EX 2-16 Rotating Text and Using the Fill Handle
To Determine the Lowest Number in a to Create a Series EX 3-5
Range of Numbers Using the To Rotate Text in a Cell EX 3-5
Sum Menu EX 2-18 To Use the Fill Handle to Create a
To Determine the Average of a Range of Series of Month Names EX 3-7
Numbers Using the Keyboard EX 2-20 Using the Auto Fill Options Menu EX 3-8
To Copy a Range of Cells across Columns to To Increase Column Widths EX 3-9
an Adjacent Range Using the Fill Handle EX 2-21 To Enter and Indent Row Titles EX 3-10
Verifying Formulas Using Range Finder EX 2-22 Copying a Range of Cells to a Nonadjacent
To Verify a Formula Using Range Finder EX 2-22 Destination Area EX 3-10
Formatting the Worksheet EX 2-23 To Copy a Range of Cells to a
To Change the Workbook Theme EX 2-24 Nonadjacent Destination Area EX 3-11
To Format the Worksheet Titles EX 2-25 Using the Paste Options Menu EX 3-12

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
Technology for Success and The Shelly Cashman Series Microsoft® 365 & Office 2021 Contents xiii

Using Drag and Drop to Move or Copy Cells EX 3-12 Goal Seeking EX 3-56
Using Cut and Paste to Move Cells EX 3-13 To Goal Seek EX 3-56
Inserting and Deleting Cells in a Worksheet EX 3-13 Insights EX 3-58
To Insert a Row EX 3-14 To Use the Smart Lookup Insight EX 3-58
Inserting Columns EX 3-15 Accessibility Features EX 3-59
Inserting Single Cells or a Range of Cells EX 3-15 Summary EX 3-60
Deleting Columns and Rows EX 3-16 Apply Your Knowledge EX 3-61
To Enter Numbers with Format Symbols EX 3-16 Extend Your Knowledge EX 3-62
To Enter the Projected Monthly Sales EX 3-17 Expand Your World EX 3-64
To Enter and Format the System Date EX 3-18 In the Lab EX 3-65
Absolute versus Relative Addressing EX 3-20
To Enter a Formula Containing Absolute
Cell References EX 3-22 Microsoft Access 2021
Making Decisions—The IF Function EX 3-24
To Enter an IF Function EX 3-25 Module one
To Enter the Remaining Formulas for January EX 3-26 Databases and Database Objects:
To Copy Formulas with Absolute Cell An Introduction
References Using the Fill Handle EX 3-27 Objectives AC 1-1
To Determine Row Totals in Nonadjacent Cells EX 3-28 Introduction AC 1-1
Nested Forms of the IF Function EX 3-29 Project—Database Creation AC 1-1
Adding and Formatting Sparkline Charts EX 3-30 Creating a Database AC 1-4
To Add a Sparkline Chart to the Worksheet EX 3-30 To Create a Database  AC 1-5
To Change the Sparkline Style and Copy To Create a Database Using a Template  AC 1-6
the Sparkline Chart EX 3-31 The Access Window AC 1-6
To Change the Sparkline Type EX 3-32 Navigation Pane and Access Work Area AC 1-6
Customizing Sparkline Charts EX 3-33 Determining Tables and Fields AC 1-7
Formatting the Worksheet EX 3-33 Naming Tables and Fields AC 1-7
To Assign Formats to Nonadjacent Ranges EX 3-34 Determining the Primary Key AC 1-7
To Format the Worksheet Titles EX 3-36 Determining Data Types for the Fields AC 1-7
To Assign Cell Styles to Nonadjacent Creating a Table in Datasheet View AC 1-9
Rows and Colors to a Cell EX 3-37 To Modify the Primary Key AC 1-10
To Copy a Cell’s Format Using the Format To Define the Remaining Fields in a Table AC 1-12
Painter Button EX 3-38 Making Changes to the Structure AC 1-13
To Format the What-If Assumptions Table EX 3-39 To Save a Table AC 1-14
Adding a Clustered Column Chart to To View the Table in Design View AC 1-15
the Workbook EX 3-39 Checking the Structure in Design View AC 1-16
To Draw a Clustered Column Chart on a To Close the Table AC 1-16
Separate Chart Sheet Using the To Add Records to a Table AC 1-17
Recommended Charts Feature EX 3-40 Making Changes to the Data AC 1-20
To Insert a Chart Title EX 3-42 Navigation Buttons AC 1-21
To Add Data Labels EX 3-42 To Resize Columns in a Datasheet AC 1-21
To Apply Chart Filters EX 3-43 To Create a Table in Design View AC 1-24
To Add an Axis Title to the Chart EX 3-44 Correcting Errors in the Structure AC 1-25
To Change the Chart Style EX 3-45 Populating the Patients Table AC 1-25
To Modify the Chart Axis Number Format EX 3-46 To Close the Table AC 1-26
To Remove Filters and Data Labels EX 3-47 To Resize Columns in a Datasheet AC 1-26
Organizing the Workbook EX 3-48 Importing Additional Access Database
To Rename and Color Sheet Tabs EX 3-48 Tables into an Existing Database AC 1-26
To Reorder the Sheet Tabs EX 3-48 Additional Database Objects AC 1-29
To Check Spelling in Multiple Sheets EX 3-49 Creating Queries AC 1-29
To Preview and Print the Worksheet EX 3-49 To Use the Simple Query Wizard to
Changing the View of the Worksheet EX 3-50 Create a Query AC 1-29
To Shrink and Magnify the View of a Using Queries AC 1-31
Worksheet or Chart EX 3-50 Creating Forms AC 1-31
To Split a Window into Panes EX 3-52 To Create a Form  AC 1-31
To Remove the Panes from the Window EX 3-53 Using a Form AC 1-34
To Freeze Worksheet Columns and Rows EX 3-53 To Create a Report Using the Report Wizard AC 1-34
To Unfreeze the Worksheet Using Layout View in a Report AC 1-36
Columns and Rows EX 3-55 Database Properties AC 1-37
What-If Analysis EX 3-55 Special Database Operations AC 1-37
To Analyze Data in a Worksheet by Backup and Recovery AC 1-37
Changing Values EX 3-55 Compacting and Repairing a Database AC 1-38

Copyright 2023 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.
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The Project Gutenberg eBook of L'escanya-
pobres
This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States
and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no
restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it
under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this
ebook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the
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you are located before using this eBook.

Title: L'escanya-pobres

Author: Narcís Oller

Release date: February 2, 2024 [eBook #72856]

Language: Catalan

Original publication: Barcelona: Estampa La Renaixensa, 1884

Credits: Joan Queralt Gil

*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK L'ESCANYA-


POBRES ***
L’escanya-pobres
Narcís Oller

1884
I.
Los mercats de Pratbell, d’antiga nomenada, arribaren á son més
gran esplendor pe’ls encontorns del any 50 de la present centuria.
Acabava d’estrenarse’l tros de carretera de Madrid á la Granada
qu’atravessa á Pratbell, y essent aquesta vila cap de jornada ó de
rellevo,‘n tocá’ls resultats ben prompte. Los blats d’Urgell y d’Aragó
hi abocavan á torrentadas los carros, y era negoci gras no deixarlos
passar endevant, provehit com estava’l país de salts d’aygua y bons
molíns. Aixis fou qu’, en un sancti amen, l’esperit especulador dels de
Pratbell, comprengué la jugada y plantá arreu per tota la vila
magatzéms de grans, cavant sitjas al costat meteix dels cups.

Un dels magatzéms que cridá la atenció desde primera hora, fou lo


qu’al carrer de la Roca, vora’l portal Nou y á vint passas del Pallol,
obrí l’Olaguer. Perqué ¿quí era l’Olaguer? ¿ab quíns poders contava?
Heus aquí las preguntas que’s feya tothom, l’enigma que capficava
als de Pratbell al passar pe’l carrer de la Roca. ¿L’Olaguer, aquell
minyó traginer, fill de qui sab hónt, que fins are ha menat matxos?
¡Si es més pelat qu’una rata! ¡Si encara du pe’l cabell rastre de las
pallissas hont dormia! ¿D’hónt ha tret los diners?

Era verament estrany que mentres los altres traginers, fills de la vila,
havían d’emigrar ó junyirse á oficis més grossers, aquell foraster
sense nomenada tingués forsas y pit per’obrir magatzém. Tal hi havia
que, pera explicar lo misteri, recordava’l nom de coquí qu’entre’ls del
ofici disfrutava l’Olaguer, y’l senyalava á sos fills com exemple de
previsió y estalvi digne d’imitarse. D’altres, mal pensats com may ne
faltan, atribuhían sa riquesa á una malifeta; recordavan á cau d’orella
que, temps enrera, un senyor que l’Olaguer acompanyava al Remey
mori estimbat, y’l matxo ni una rascada… ¿m’entén? No mancava qui
mirés al nou graner com testaferro d’algun gat vell que qui sab per
quins fins no volía treure la cara. Per fi, los que’s creyan més
espavilats, tot s’ho explicavan ab la omnipotencia momentánea de
l’ambició, confiant per aixó al temps los mals pronóstichs que, com
qui no ho vol, deixavan caure.

Passaren mesos, passaren anys y’l magatzém seguía obrint y tancant


sas portas ab lo sol y encare sens eclipses ni nuvoladas. De bon matí,
se plantificava ja l’Olaguer al brancal de la porta, y recolzat en las
sacas de mostra, esperava compradors, vestit de blauhet al estiu, de
pana al hivern, sempre ab la mateixa roba de quan era traginer,
sempre ab lo mateix mocador de seda virolat, entortolligat al front, ó
ab la barretina musca ja més descolorida y suhada que la de cap
pobre. Saludava als vehins ab un “bon día” ó “Deu vos guard,” y si’ls
compradors no matinejavan, ben prompte s’encauhava per las
fosquedats del magatzém, desde hont, tot tirant plans, vigilava, sense
esser vist, las copsadas sacas que’l sol acalentava de biaix. S’aturavan
pagesos, prenían una mostra de blat dins lo palmell, la sospesavan, la
gronxavan, la bufavan, se la passavan á raig fet d’una má á l’altra
com rajolí d’or, y, si agradats de la mercadería, llansavan la vista
enlluhernada al interior, no trigava un segón á eixir l’amo, de son
amagatall, dreturer y cautelós com l’aranya del albench.
Era altot y ossut, peró magre y cap-petit. Com bon moreno, tenía
negre’l cabell, sempre arranat, y negras eran també las ninas de sos
ulls, fredas y escorcolladoras mentres ascoltava; guspirejants ó
dolsas quan sa paraula ho requería. Quasi be barbamech, tenía no
obstant groixudas cellas; unidas sobre son nas llarguet y cantellut.
Peró lo que més caracterisava aquella figura, era la boca, tirada
endevant com la del furó, ab sos llabis tan prims y cenyits al os, que
no podia badarlos sense fer l’efecte de qu’ensenyava las dents pera
mossegar. Disposava així meteix en contra d’éll, una oposició,
evident al primer cop d’ull, entre sos moviments reposats y son
temperament nerviós. Al véurel tan esprimatxat y rebegut, un
pressentía l’agilitat traydora del gat y estava com pensant: ¿quán
traurá las unglas? ¿quán me botará á demunt? Y no obstant, jamay
las treya, may se barallava y enardia; ningú li havía vist perdre aquell
pas de gat emperesit ni sas costums metódicas de sempre.

Peró ab aixó y tot, disfrutava molt pocas simpatías. Lo veynat


l’espiava dia y nit, y per un efecte més sentimental qu’enrahonat,
odiava la vida d’aquell home. Ningú li sabia cap mal pas, llevat del
estimbament d’aquell senyor qu’anava al Remey, del que sóls
problemáticament n’era responsable; peró res, á las afeccións no’ls hi
cerqueu rahó d’existencia. L’un las enfilava en lo posat de mosca
morta, l’altre en son parlar de nyau-nyau, lo de més enllá perque no
podia contemplar sens frisansa lo sistema de vida raquítich y puntual
d’aquell home.

Y realment son modo de viure era miserable y misteriós, tot á l’hora.


Ni una mala criada, ni un mosso, pera las feynas més grosseras de sa
industria. Ell meteix ajudava á carregar y descarregar las sacas de gra
y farina qu’entravan en son magatzém; ell meteix escombrava ab una
mala granera lo boll del enrejolat, passava la rasadora á las mesuras
y omplía ó buydava’ls cassals y la sitja. Espitregat y afanyós, quan
convenía, travallava fins á perdre l’alé, y, si havia d’eixir de casa,
tancava la porta y s’enduya la clau á la butxaca.

Tota s’habitació era l’estreta y fosca rebotiga que hi havia al fons del
magatzém, aclarida no més per un cel obert esquifit y reumátich, ple
de trastos vells, ollas fumadas y una ratera hont, boy cada dia,
acabavan sa existencia un parell de ratas com conills. Cada dissabte,
á la tarde, omplia de fum aquell cel-obert. Los vehins esbrinaren
qu’allavors bullia una calderada de farinetas y que l’endemá las
escudellava en set plats de terrissa, consumintne un cada vespre. “Se
menja las sopas fredas”, deyan. Y aquest era l’únich sopar del
Olaguer.

Pera dinar, estava aconduhit al hostal de Sant Roch. Allí concorrian


los pagesos més enderrerits, los carreters més jugadors, y’l Olaguer
hi anava pera bestraure’ls hi diners á ral per duro. En quant al
dormir, donchs que ningú havia traspassat lo llindar de sa fosca
habitació, era impossible saber com lo miserable graner se las
arreglava. Sols imputantli un luxo exagerat, s’atrevian algúns á
suposar que jeya en una márfega; dalt d’un catre; d’altres, presumian
que ho feya demunt de sachs vells; los més, s’inclinavan á creure
qu’en un jas de palla ó en los munts de boll arrambats ab l’escombra.

Ni saraus, ni aplechs, ni fontadas, ni funcions d’iglesia trencavan la


marxa matemática d’aquell rellotje; sempre á dins del magatzém,
senyalant lo mitjdia ab s’anada al hostal, la posta del sol ab lo grinyol
de las pesantas portas que restavan sols tancadas fins que’l dia
esqueixa la boyra de la nit. L’única casa que freqüentava era la del
notari Xirinach, un notari que li extenia’ls debitoris ab qu’endogalava
als enderrerits y als jugadors, en sa taula de bayeta despintada y
sembrada de papers polsosos, serraduras y plomas d’oca.

També passava’l Sr. Xirinach plassa d’avaro, no essentho sinó per


reflexo de sa muller. En altras mans, D. Magí Xirinach, hauria sigut
senzillament un home previsor, ó si’s vól, un home interessat com
tants ne corren; incapás peró de viure ab la mesquinesa á que’l
reduhia aquella dona, vera encarnació de l’avarícia més crudel y
refinada. La flaca del notari no era’l diner pe’l diner; sinó la cobdicia
de la propietat. Fluix de complexió y de natural esporugit era
d’aquells que pensan sempre en las contingencias de la sórt y en la
vellesa, de la qual estava ja frech á frech. Pera assegurar aquésta
contra las inclemencias de la miseria, hauria estat continuament
fincantse; peró sotpeditat per Da. Tuyas, qu’era de génit dominant y
porfidiós y s’havia posat las calsas, lo pobre home havia de arribar á
sos fins per altre camí molt més tort y llargarut. Deixava’l diner á
interés pujat, perque ella ho volia, y ell somniava sempre en l’hora
d’entaular judici y embestir l’hipoteca. La possessió d’aquésta li
hauria agradat més que’l diner. Da. Tuyas tot al revés; d’aquí
contínuas disputas dins d’aquell matrimoni. No obstant los esforsos
del notari, la sórt se mostrava sempre més favorable á Da. Tuyas y als
deutors: finia’l plasso y aquestos pagavan bitllo-bitllo;’l capital se li
havia aumentat; l’hipoteca se li havia escorregut una vegada més dels
dits. Germana de sa fluixedat de génit era la desconfiansa que tenia
de sa propia válua. Era dels que cridan sempre á primer hora,
qu’arrian velas aviat y qu’acaban per admirar sempre la forsa de
voluntat del contrincant. Per aixó, víctima y tot de Da. Tuyas, tenia
per ella especial adoració. L’avaricia d’aquesta dona, ab tot y esser
supina, als ulls d’aquell marit ofuscat no traspassava la ratlla d’una
economia molt prudent. Da. Tuyas, per ell, era modelo
d’estalviadoras, de dona de sa casa.

Per lo que toca al graner, D. Magí l’estimava com lo pagés estima al


arbre que creix ab sas regadas. Ell li havia dat la má, lo veya creixer, y
posantlo en camí d’adquirir, se feya l’ilusió de que s’hi posava ell
mateix ó quan menys n’assaboria las dolcesas.

Durant molts anys, passá l’Olaguer las tardes dels diumenges en


aquell despaig folrat per una doble paret de protocols y pergamins
polsosos.

—Quánta de moneda déu representar tot aixó? Quánts de testaments


y contractes plens de números, eh?

Lo Sr. Xirinach, se llepava’l mostatxo de serrell, se fregava la galta


brianosa, arrufava’l nas, y llansant una mirada ideal per l’escletxa de
sas ulleras blavas, responía ab melancólica veu:

—Ja ho podeu dir, ja! Si aquí, tinguessem tot lo diner de qu’aixó


parla, ja fora amo de mitj Catalunya.

Més de quatre y més de vuyt vegadas havia repetit aquesta conversa,


com si’s passessen un confitet per la boca, mentres Da. Tuyas, tot
bellugant lo cap ab menyspreu, desembrassava la tauleta del
escribent.
Fora papers y tinter, l’espolsava ab lo mocador d’herbas qu’arrancava
de la bata de son marit, mal qu’aquest rondinés y cada diumenje’n
rondinava; treya un jóch de cartas ja ronyosas y corvas com teulas, y
¡apa! ja hi som! Lo notari, ab son casquet mitj desbrodat y suhós, sas
ulleras blavas y son mostatxo de serrell, s’asseya devant per devant
de sa costella. Aquesta, ab sa cara de pergamí arrugat, comprimida
fins dessota las orellas, pe’ls bandós de sa perruca, comensava
invariablement una disputa sobre si’l jòch seria un solo, una
bescambrilla ó un truch y flor. Com qu’era tan repatania (paraulas
del notari) se feya la seva santa voluntat, qu’en aquest cas volia dir la
bescambrilla, y la pau regnava entre’ls dos contendents, fins á l’hora
de pagar, que, segons sembla, era la en que,’l vencedor d’aquella
tarde, comensava á rondinar, pera no rebrer com trofeus de la
victoria, xavos llisos per quartos y cabotas de clau per xavos. Hi havia
un moment en que’ls tres jugadors, tot d’un plegat, s’aixecavan de la
cadira, aferrant cadascú, ab lo puny clos sobre la taula, lo
corresponent muntet de calderilla; peró devant del conflicte de tanta
merma, lo guanyador solia capitular, admetent cabotas y xavos llisos.
Qui aygua atura, blat mesura, solía dir cadascú interiorment. Y l’un
se mofava de l’altre á qui creya haver explotat.

Mentrestant la claror mimvava, enfosquint l’estret escriptori.


L’Olaguer cuytava á despedirse pera poder arribar encare entre dos
llustros á casa seva, y’ls vehins, al véurel entrar, ab ironia més
ignoscent que fundada, solian exclamar entre dents:

—Ja va á menjarse las sopas fredas.


II.
Lo carril, aquell carril tan desitjat, que’l 15 de Juny del 65 s’estrená á
Pratbell á só de campanas y terrabastall de músicas, acabá arreu ab
los antichs mercats. Las feixugas galeras d’Urgell y d’Aragó no hi
comparegueren més, lo bestiá de Verdú tampoch, los graners
hagueren de tancar los magatzéms, los ramblers emigraren, aquell
burgit d’invasións forasteras no trencá ja periódicament lo repós dels
carrers de Pratbell. Un somni etern semblá apoderarse de la vila, lo
somni que pesa sobre las poblacións pagesas. Al mitj d’aquella
quietut, ressonava ab certa tristesa l’espignet potent de la
locomotora, crit d’alerta d’una nova civilisació sorollosa y atrafegada.

Llavors l’estació s’animava un xich, los vehins del Arrabal guaytavan


per las finestras, los pochs pagesos, escampats per la plana com
figuretas perdudas, se redressavan y restavan embadalits, las mans
plegadas demunt l’eyna del travall. De sota terra, del túnel de
Malgual, apareixia, envolcallat en fum, lo tren, indecís, negre,
empetitit, com joguina de fira per la distancia y per la magnitut de las
montanyas que li servian de fondo. Ell corria, corria, y sols
imposantli metas, coneixía l’espectador que guanyava camí. Mes
aixís y tot, duyá en sí certa magestat totduna atractívola é imponent
qu’obligava á mirarlo. En son curs era capritxós y enjogassat. Tantost
mostrava á lo llarch sa trencada siluheta en camp ras, devant lo
lluminós horitzó; tantost se presentava de pit, blanca cimera
esblenada al cap, sos ulls rodóns llampeguejant; tantost
s’embarhumava ab canyars y arbredas, ó s’encauhava per un tallat
serradet, demunt del qual, arreu s’arrossegavan fantásticas
fumerolas. A estonas se’l sentia cridar adolorit, á estonas pantejar ab
afany, y á mesura que s’acostava, la terra trontollava sota’ls peus, la
máquina s’engrandia, sa branzida’s feya imponent. De sobte, eixía
d’un altre tallat, llansava al ayre un xisclet més viu y durader al que
responía la campana de l’estació, enfrenava la branzida, y, dalt del
geométrich talús, desfilava sobre frévol rodatje l’intermenable corrua
de wagons, embalumats de sacas, botas, carbó, fustas, ferro y
maquinaria. Los wagons topavan uns ab altres com marejats, llur
rodám grinyolava al pes de tanta abundó. Ne duyan més ells en un
viatje que no’n trafiquejava la vila en deu mercats, y, sols algun dia,
mentres la máquina feya aygua, s’enganxavan á la cua dos ó tres
wagons més que tancavan las sobrallas de Pratbell. Pochs minuts
després, fugia tot aquell convoy de riquesa ab un crit salvatje
d’ergull, deixant espalmada la vida, buyda y solitaria l’estació, com
capsa abandonada al mitj del camp.

Los pratbellins de las finestras sentian quelcom d’imponent y trist


alhora, fins quan lo tren era de passatjers. Veure tot aquell aixám de
desconeguts que s’abocava á las finestretas indiferent, damas ab
trajos rebuscats, quintos que cantavan cansons estranyas, jovent
desvergonyit que saludava en to de burla, senyors que corrian del
tren á l’estació y de l’estació al tren, empenyentse, atropellantse;
contemplar com tot aquell mon tornava á entrar en caixa als cops
sorts de las portellas y ab quin desdeny partía tot joyós sense veure
Pratbell sinó d’esquitllébit; era fantasmagoría antipática qu’ofenía’l
patriotisme y amargava’l sentiment de germanó. ¿D’hont venia,
ahont anava aquell tros d’Humanitat tan indiferent per l’altre tros?
S’hauria dit qu’era un somni pesat que’s repetia cada tres horas pera
interrompre la pau dels pratbellins, passántloshi pe’ls ulls rassas y
més rassas d’un mon nou y esbojarrat que vivia viatjant eternament.

—Aquí ho tenen, ja ho veyeu Olaguer, —deya una tarde’l notari


Xirinach pe’l camí de l’estació, quan encare brunzia en l’espay lo
clam del tren de carga que s’allunyava via amunt— ¡Y tan criticats
com vam ser per no contribuir á las festas!

—Sempre me n’he rigut.

Lo notari aturá’l pas, y apuntant la mangala dret á la via, afegí


sentenciosament:

—Sempre’l peix gros se menja al xich. Aixó es peste pe’ls pobles.


Teniuho per máxima: sempre’l peix gros se menja’l xich… ¿Ahont vá
aqueix tren? A atipar las ciutats grans… ¿Qué creix avuy? Las ciutats
grans… ¿Veyeu créixer cap vila, cap llogaret? Nó; sempre’l peix gros
s’menja al xich. Ben aviat aixó será un mas robat. La tendencia de la
civilisació nova es de concentració. Ja ho heu vist… los vostres
companys: qui no s’ha’n es anat al cel, se’n ha anat á Barcelona.

—Es lo que jo’ls hi deya, don Magí; féu veni’l carril, lo blat se os
tornará órb.

Y tornaren á caminar, lo notari llepant lo capsó de plata de sa


mangala, l’Olaguer ab las mans encreuhadas al darrera, estrenyent
un grapat de redoltas.

Lo camí estava solitari, cobert d’un fanch roig y envidriat que cruixía
sota las sabatas. Al cap de munt, destacava la vila sa foradada
siluheta ab son castell enmarletat y son campanar románich, sobre
un cel rohent de tardor qu’anava esblaymantse per moments. La
vehina serra, campida de blau negrós, batia sobre la plana misteriosa
ombra. Un taro bastant viu feya saltironar las fullas secas com
aucells ferits y, en sas alenadas fortas, omplia la terra de remors
d’esgarrapadas. Llavors, los pelats sarments qu’aguaytavan al camí,
cruixian, se revinclavan convulsivament y semblavan vergassar als
pochs pámpols morts que conservavan encare. Un pressentiment
d’hivern; prenyat de melangía y cruesas, s’apoderava dels cors. Lo
Sr. Xirinach s’aixecá’l coll de sa levita color de pansa, s’assegurá las
ulleras blavas y encasquetá bé’l barret d’copa: l’Olaguer, d’un blinco,
s’ficá tercera vegada á la vinya del costat y n’eixí arreu ab nou grapat
de redoltas.

—Aquesta afició á la rapinya! —esclamá’l notari, somrisent.

—Res d’aixó; es lo temps d’aixarmentar. Quí sab d’hont venen?

—Ja n’hi ha pera encendre fóch, eh? —afegi’l notari, ab fruició ben
manifesta.— Aixís se fan las casas, Olaguer, los animals nos ho
ensenyan: mirau la formiga. No més recullint lo que’ls esvalotats
deixan ¡quin gavadal!… Sembla que’l vent s’encalma, podriam seure
una mica.

L’Olaguer, primer qu’ell, arribá á un pedrís de prop del poble, y tot


lligant en garbó las redoltas cullidas, sentí ab sorpresa la següent
pregunta del notari:

—Per qué no us caseu?


—Ja may hi só pensat.

—Comprench que no hi pensessiu mentres feyau lo fonament de


vostra casa; peró avuy que teniu La Coma, l’Hort dels Mínims, las
paradas de Dalt, en una paraula, lo ronyó cubert, avuy qu’héu de
plegar la botiga, qu’os en aneu á la quarentena y voleu esser pagés,
héu de pensarhi.

—Que no hi ha més que casarse? En bonas firas que’m vol bé!

—Home jo vos proposo un casament de Deu nos dó. Busqueu las


vostras conveniencias: una dona estalviadora es un gran puntal.

—Aquí’s casa la bossa se li torna rasa.

—Trieu bé la dona y encare la tindreu més plena. Ah!, si es del puny


estret! cap home l’avansa. Mireu la meva.

Y aquí, D. Magí comensá á fer tal elogi y relació de las virtuts


domésticas de la Tuyas, que no hi havia sinó ascoltar. En vint anys no
havia espatllat una dotzena de camisas, ni comprat un llensol; ja no
parlém de la roba de demunt. “Aquesta levita de panyet, aquesta
armilla de quadros, aquestos pantalons d’esca, se conservan del
nubiatje ensá, per la seva endressa y condicia. A casa no hi há un
raspall; los raspalls tot s’ho menjan, Olaguer; uns bons espolsadors, y
per la derrera má, such de munyeca, ab un mocador ó un tros de
panyo. Roba qu’os trayeu, roba’l calaix, ben estirada y neta; aixó cada
nit. Que plou ó hi ha fanch, no eixiu de casa sens una gran necessitat,
y si teniu alfombreta al peu del sofá y venen visitas, enretireula. Al
llit, coxineras de pisana ab una tira de tela que’s treu cada matí. La
taula, de marbre, y, demunt dels estalvis, ja podeu posarhi las
cassolas. En fí, no acabaria may… Y per la pitansa? May á la plassa
cap criada, que totas sisan; sempre la Tuyas y sempre tart, quan ja
las revenadoras no pensan sinó en tornar descarregadas á casa. Pero
perque veyeu fins ahont arriba la previsió de la Tuyas. ¿Sabeu com
compra’ls ous? ¿Si van cars, n’enmanlleva duas, tres dotzenas á son
nebot l’adroguer; un cop s’han abaixat, los hi torna. Moltas
candeletas fan un ciri pascual… Una dona aixís vos apedassa y
agombola com ningú. Y ademés aquell instint del negoci que té, la
dona de sa casa, ¡aquell cop d’ull! Quan ella vos dona una sortida ó
consell, ascolteula; son grans inspiracions que no més tenen ellas.
Verbigracia, quan se’m va presentar aquell beneyt de D. Guillem, lo
Baró, á demanar que li bestragués trescents duros; coneixent jo, com
de fet, que’l volia no més que pera fer lo fatxenda en la suscripció de
las festas del carril, de poch l’envio enhoramala. Per sórt meva, vaig
demanarli que m’hi deixés pensar. Ho dich á’n ella, y sabeu qué va
preveure? Que’l Castell seria meu, com d’efecte no crech que trigui
gayre á esserho. Tenen grans inspiracions, grans inspiracions…!
Després, si vos moriu ¿á qui ho deixaréu? Val més saber que no ho ha
de fer malbè. Ja vos dich; cerqueu una dona aixís y caseuvos; á la fí
es lo camí qu’hem de fer tots.”

L’Olaguer s’aixecá y, dant un copet amistós á l’espatlla del notari, va


dir:

—De tot lo que vosté m’ha contat y molt més, me’n passo, jo.

—Vos sou un miserable, vos no viviu com un senyor, —replicá’l


notari, tot amoscat.
Y com lo taro tornava á bufar y la nit era ja bruna, emprengueren
silenciosos la costa de la vila, l’un ab las ulleras al front y tantejant la
terra ab la mangala, l’altre ab lo garbonet sota l’aixella. Mes, á mitja
vila, cadescú tirá per son cantó, fent dret á casa.

Quan l’Olaguer, havent barrat la porta,’s dirigía magatzém en dins á


la feble calor d’una candela que duya estenallada entre dos dits, un
xicot del carrer cridá pel forat del pany: ¡Escanya-pobres! Y aquest
crit que retrunyí ab veu aspre y desvergonyida per las tenebrosas
voltas del magatzém, glassá las sangs del avaro. ¡Escanya-pobres!
renóm que li aplicavan fa un quant de temps, qu’anava
popularisantse y que duya en sí tota los ayres d’una persecució
rabiosa, qu’era una estigma ab que li escupía á la cara tot un poble!
Aixis ho entenia l’Olaguer, y al pensarhi, éll, que per propia voluntat
s’havía apartat sempre de tothom, s’esferahía.

Sa naturalesa era la del arrel ó del táup, viure en l’obscuritat, créixer


en ella y en ella desplegar sa forsa; may eixir afora, esser senyalat ab
lo dit, esser l’enveja ó’l sach dels cops de ningú. Lo crit d’escanya-
pobres, era un crit de venjansa, l’alerta d’un regiment de foners
preparats á apedregarlo. En aquell moment, dintre sa casa, lo crit
prenía ja’l tó d’un desafío. Se sentí acorralat y, en son semblant, se
llegí tota la sobtada desesperació de la bestia sorpresa en lo cau, l’ira
salvatje d’aquella naturalesa grossera. Mes, la vida ensopida que
tants anys mená dintre la foscuria de son magatzém l’havia tornat
esglayadís com una rata. Del coratjós traginer no’n servava sinó la
primera embestida y la confiansa absoluta en tota la naturalesa,
esceptuantne l’home que tenia per la pitjor de las feras. Tota sa vida,
de l’Humanitat n’havia dit una colla de lladres; cada home era
donchs un lladre de qui calía guardarse, y en la confusió d’ideas de
son cervell escanyolit per la ignorancia, havia cregut sempre honrada
tota cobdicia que no anés armada fins á las dents. L’usura que las
modernas lleys no persegueixen, tampoch la condemnava lo sentit
moral de l’Olaguer. Mes aviat la considerava com una caritat molt
semblant á la de tirar una soga á qui s’ofega. Si l’auxiliat no s’en
aixecava, era que, ja avans, havia engolit massa aygua. Ell no n’era
corresponsable, y en premi d’haver eixit á la platja, se carregava á
coll totas las despullas del naufragi, que be s’ho valían los perills
passats.

Un cop rich y motejat d’Escanya-pobres, sa conducta, tot essent la


meteixa, obehía á altres móvils: al odi feréstech que cova tot
foragitat. Amollit per sa passió, acobardit pe’ls anys y pel temor de
perdre, tenía pera’l diner veritables tendresas, lo disputava á tot altre
ab las astucias més crudels. Entre ell y’ls demés hi havia guerra
oberta. Si un dia’ls lladres l’aixampavan, ningú podría robarli ja’ls
goigs passats. Y víctima d’aquesta obseció, ja no estimava’l diner com
riquesa, sinó com font de plahers inesplicables. Si l’hagués pogut
deixatar com aygua, no hauria tastat altre aliment son cos. Li dolian
ja la pesseta del hostal, los quartos del oli, la llenya y la farina; sols
vensudas veritables crísis en que lluytavan de crudel modo l’esperit
de conservació y l’amor á la dobleta, pogué’l senyor Xirinach
resoldre’l á fincarse. “¡Un cop de má! ¡un cop de má!” Sense aixó, ni
hauria comprat l’hort, per barato que li dessen, ni un cop
adjudicadas, hauría conservat dos dias Las paradas de dalt y La
Coma, que’l tribunal li entregava per sentencia executiva. “¡Terras!
Dèu ne dó á qui’n vulga! No portan sinò mals de cap y gastos. Diner,
diner, que se’l veu creixer, qu’ocupa poch lloch y un se’l pòt guardar.
Pero un cop de má, un cop demá!” Sempre aquell cop de má sospés
sobre son cap, lo feya somniar ab lladres y l’omplía de una basarda
més consemblant á la dels gelosos qu’á la dels poruchs; perque, com
á tot amant cego, no li dolía la vida, sino’l ser estimat. Es per aixó
que, del motiu d’escanya-pobres, lo que menys l’ofenía era l’intenció
insultant; lo que més l’amenassa, la llum que li jitava sobre’l rostre
pera traure’l de la foscor en que vivia y ferlo objecte de la rapinya
humana. Per aixó l’ascoltá estamordit, ressonar dintre de sa propia
casa, prop, prop del diner.

Una estona restá espalmat, la candela tremolant entre’ls dits, los


peus clavats á la mateixa rajola, y una barreja de por, d’ira, d’odi, que
passá per demunt del insolent y abarcava á tot Pratbell, bambollejá
per dintre aquell cor. Un silenci absolut lo refé; torná enrera, repassá
las baldas, la barra, lo pany, tapá ben be’l forat d’aquest, y com si
encare no sabés que’l crit havia entrat de fòra, resseguí,’l meteix que
dona poruca, fins los més petits recons de son rónech magatzém.

Ja amo de sí mateix, un somrís amargant lluhí en son rostre:


l’expressió de la venjansa, per no dirne la claror. May tan obcecat
com aquell dia. La conversa del notari, portantli’ls ulls envers la
dona, criatura de qui’ls havia apartat l’Olaguer passats sos vint anys,
lo crit ab que’l món s’havia per primera volta atrevít á perseguirlo
fins aquell recó, li remogueren fondament totas las tendresas que per
l’or sentía. Alló eran amenassas, amenassas contra l’objecte estimat:
may, donchs, l’havia estimat tant. Y sentí per ell la frisansa d’una sort
de lascivia extranya, una aberració bestial que no cap en rahó
humana. Ja que no podía fondre l’or y portarlo á la corrent de sas
venas, volía besarlo, glopejarlo, refrescarsen la boca y ab son alé
cubrirlo amorosament d’un vel. En las depravacións y baixesas de sa
grossera passió, may havía arribat tan avall: estava foll.

En tota la nit no pogué aclucar l’ull, y com la febre li exagerés los


perills que corría á Pratbell, prengué’l determini d’anarsen. Quasi bé
buyt lo magatzém, amo de La Coma y resolt á fer de pagés, com més
prompte abandonaría la vila, mellor. Terra entre mitj y no pensarían
en ell. Una llenca de terra d’un parell d’horas ja sería prou
per’aquells avalotats; quan aniría á la vila, no veuría sinó al notari.
III.
Tres dias després, l’Olaguer arribá á La Coma, disposat á viurehi.
S’esqueya La Coma á sol ponent, dins d’una fondalada tranquila y
apacible, encar qu’un xich tristota per lo tó negrós que dava á las
vessants l’espés alzinar que las coronava. Pel galze de las vessants,
corría una riera sens nom, que regava l’horta de l’hisenda y algunas
pollancras d’estremada alsaria. La vessant de ponent, ans d’arribar á
l’aygua, s’aplanava, formant dalt de la riera com un grahó esgayat,
que tindría ben be una trentena de jornals. Al mitj hi havia la masía,
una casa de pagés, de teulada á dos vessants, l’era á sos peus, dins del
barri, qu’una esberlada porta de fusta tancava; un balcó tan llarch
com lo devanter dalt del primer pis y, sens orde ni concert, unas
quantas construccións miserables, arrapadas al entorn del edifici per
l’allotjament de las bestias y per altres serveys secundaris. Lo primer
pis era ben bé l’aposento del senyor: per la part del devant dominava
tota l’horta, extesa á sos peus com expléndit tapís moradench, llistat
de vert en oposats sentits; més amunt, los camps, y més amunt
encare, la vinya, cobrint ab ayre desmayat los primers geps de la
montanya. Per la part del darrera, la costa s’accentuava rápidament,
y, de la carena abaix, l’amo podia ovirar las ombrívolas interioritats
d’aquell bosch farreny, que semblava lliscar á pleret y cautelós cap á
la plana. A sos peus, y bé á sos peus, hi tenía l’amo’l servey, lo bestiá
y la virám, qu’escatenyava tot lo dia pe’ls pallers, arreus y llenya de
dins del barri.
Hi havia dèu anys qu’habitava aquest mas en Pere de las Borjas ab sa
dona y maynadeta, una cunyada, dos mossos y un baylet. En Pere,
que’l tenía á mitjas, no havia dat un quedir al amo, y ab tota sa
familia plorá de debó la mort d’aquest, primer, després l’adjudicació
feta pe’l tribunal á favor de l’Escanya pobres. Arrancar aquell be de
Dèu de las mans d’una pobre viuda y d’uns angelets com un fil d’or,
abatuts per la llarga malaltía de D. Joseph, li semblá una crudeltat
tremenda: esser lo substitut de tot un senyor un ex-traginer que, per
juheu, tenía tan mal nom, una imposició insoportable. Pero sobre’l
amor qu’en Pere duya á aquells terrossos regats ab sa suhor, hi havia
de més á més una cláusula d’escriptura que’l tenía amarrat á La
Coma per dos anys encare. Se carregaría de paciencia y cumpliría
com un home.

A la masía, coneixía tothom lo motiu del nou amo, perque l’Olaguer


s’havia fet més popular qu’ell no’s creya. La Pona, la masovera, y la
Sileta, sa germana, anant á mercat, havian guipat ja de cua d’ull,
dintre la fosquedat del magatzém, al improvisat graner; peró si de la
figura ningú’n tenía una imatje prou clara, llevat d’en Pere; de
l’ánima ne tenía potser una idea més esgarrifosa que la mateixa
realitat, ennegrida per un renom que feya feresa y desfigurada per las
llegendas románticas que d’ell formava la pública murmuració.

Fet determini de carregarse de paciencia, en Pere cridá, donchs, á


capítol á tothom, recomanant calma, bon seny y la major prudencia.
Hi anava la sòrt de tots: altrement, se veuría obligat á satisfer una
indemnisació que, ni venentse la camisa, podría reunir. La nova
caygué demunt d’aquells esperits com una gran disort, peró
prometeren ajudar al de casa ab tota la fé de qu’eran capassos. Y altre
no podía esperarse d’aquella familia, veritable tribu qu’en Pere regía
com un patriarca. Alt, fornit y de serio posat, fins ho semblava.
L’afable Pona, engroixida ja pe’ls anys y per son génit de bona pasta,
com l’endressada Sileta, alegre escarrás d’aquella masía, lo volían y
respectavan ab amor. En quant al servey, no hi havia que temer del
pacífich Llorens, ni del enjogassat baylet; l’Aloy, geperut, qu’al dir de
la gent, tenía mal sangro, temía massa l’atlética forsa de son amo
pera propassarse.

Un dia, se presentá allí l’escanya-pobres á pendre possesió, seguí


l’hisenda molt amorosit, tingué una bona paraula pera cadahú, y com
no parlá d’aposentars’hi, tothom respirá, ab tot y que sa presencia
esborrá, en gran part, las tintas negras del retrato. Altras voltas hi
torná en poch temps y, mostrantse més y més afable, aná conquerint
los cors. Mes, quan manifestá’l determini de mudars’hi, quedaren
tots tan glassats com si se’ls hagués dit qu’arribava la peste.

Calgué fer cor fort y avant. En Pere, obehint mansament, arribá que
tot just clarejava á la vila y meresqué la proba de confiansa de
carregar, en los corns de la sárria, unas talegas que pesavan com d’or
qu’eran. Aixó’l reconfortá bona cosa. Si tant dolent fós, no’s refiaría
de mí, pensá interiorment.

Un cop á La Coma, l’escanya-pobres fou allotjat pe’ls meteixos


masovers en la cambra bona del primer pis, única per aixó que
quedava parada ab un llit de pots y banchs, un canterano y mitja
dotzena de cadiras que hi havia deixat la viuda de D. Joseph. Lo nou
estandart, fora de las talegas que hi muntá dissimuladament ab en
Pere, hi portá, per tot equipatje, un farsell fet ab un mocador de cotó.
Jamay s’havia vist tan ben aposentat. Las parets eran blancas,
l’enrejolat net, lluhentas las fustas, y’l llit parat ab llensols de bugada
per la Sileta que’n sabía la prima. La blavor del cel, la pau del camp,
l’explendidesa d’aquell sol qu’ho daurava tot, qu’acalentava fins un
bon esgay del llit, esponjaren bon xich lo cor de l’Olaguer, més
reverdintli’ls recorts de l’infantesa, que no pas fentli aborrir per
contrast lo fosch magatzém. Pera contemplar lo sol y glopejar aquella
atmósfera de sana pau, l’Olagueret; l’escanya-pobres, l’home gastat y
sotmés á la passió del diner, hauría donat tot alló pera glopejar un
grapat de dobletas, anch que fos dins de la carbonera: no eran pera
son gust depravat las magnificencias de la naturalesa; sa pell colrada
y endurida ja no sentía la frescor del llí ab que’s refregava delitós lo
tendre Olagueret, ans de somniar ab los ángels.

Mes, aixís y tot, aquella pau escaygué be uns quants dias al


esporucatescanya-pobres. Sota aquell ample cel amarat de claror,
trobá altra volta l’obscuritat desitjada: los árbres, las plantas, lo
rodejavan d’un mon nou hont l’escanya-pobres havia d’esser
desconegut; la fondalada en qu’estava enclotada La Coma no li
permetia veure Pratbell, y aixís s’hi creya cent horas lluny.

Son esperit, avesat al travall, no li consentí ni un dia de vaga. Se


llevava de bon matí y conrehava las terras barrejat ab sos masovers,
dinava,’s passava la vida al costat d’aquestos com un senzill pagés
qu’era; y la distracció del travall y aquell caliu de familia apaygavaren
per uns dias lo fòch de sa passió, adormiren la bestia y deixondiren al
home.
Altras circunstancias lo posaren á punt de transfigurarse del tot: los
nens d’en Pere, empujántseli á la falda, plens de manyaguería,
mostrantli candorosament los encisos de l’ignocencia, y la Sileta que,
fresca, sanota y riallera, li passejava pe’ls ulls los atractius de la
hermosura. Quan ell la veya trastejar per casa ó sembrar pe’ls camps,
sempre neteta y alegra, ostentant ab natural desenfado sas formas
arrodonidas y ben proporcionadas, s’abundosa cabellera daurada al
foch, sa testa riolera y expresiva, de la que cert ayre inesplicable
d’honestitat escampava’ls desitjos carnals qu’haurian pogut
despertar sos ulls atrayents, sa boca de magrana del pinyol blanch y
son coll blincadís y molsut; sentia vibrar en l’esperit l’alenada del
amor, certa déu de tendresa y poesía que l’atreya tot sumís y feble.
Després, en sas soletats, repassant los serveys que feya á la casa, los
discrets consells qu’esmersava durant lo dia, lo modo ab que’l
tractava, lo bé que l’agombolava y li tenia la cambra, tot de sobte,
l’asaltava’l pensament de casarshi, sentia reviscolar l’instint de
familia; pero, son génit esquerp li enfrenava la branzida del cor, y
d’aquesta lluyta li quedava una tristesa misteriosa, una barreja
extranya de voler y aborrir alhora á la Sileta.

Aquella tristesa li engendrá ben prompte certa lassitut y


emperesiment que, retenintlo en la cambra, lo portaren de nou á
contemplar son tresor. Sa passió renasqué ab tot l’esclat d’una
bojería mal curada; la pau dels camps s’esvahí com per encantament,
y per primera volta rondá per allí l’escanya-pobres, malmirós, aspre
y garnéu, omplint La Coma d’insofrible malestar, quan més penadits
estavan sos habitants d’haver cregut un jorn á la murmuració
pública.
En los primers dias, que foren d’espectació, l’Olaguer era mirat per
masovers y mossos ab un esglay que semblava respecte. Un cop se
convenceren de que no hi havia tal fera, sinó un home, com ells
travallador y senzill, s’abandonaren á la confiansa y habituaren á
tractarlo d’igual á igual com á llurs ulls requeria qui vestia com ells,
com ells travallava y cap condició personal tenia que l’aixequés
sobre’ls altres. En Pere cregué llavors, ab certa satisfacció, haver
baratat l’amo ab un soci, y si la Pona li feya notar que’l mantenian y li
deixavan fins la roba del llit setmanas há, sens qu’ell respirés per la
ferida, lo masover arronsava las espatllas confiat, responent que ja
ho arreglarian per cap d’any al passar comptes. Lo cas era anar tirant
per aquell camí que li semblava majorment desbrossat, després que
l’havia cregut ple de esbarzers y argelagas. Per aixó, quan
desaparegué’l soci, suplantat per un amo grosser, surrut y sens
entranyas, l’etzarament fou deu vegadas pitjor, puig duya en sí tota la
brutalitat de la sorpresa, tots los visos d’una trahició. De més á més,
lo tracte de tu á tu qu’havia precedit al cambi, feya impossible’l
respecte. La por, en aquest cas, havia de revestirse de defensa
encarnissada; oberta y brusca com de pagesos havia d’esser la lluyta.

Qui de primer notá’l cambi fou la Sileta. Un matí pujá á dalt á fer lo
llit del Olaguer. Contra la costum, trobá tancada á pany y clau la
porta de la cambra. Si atravessá per son pensament lo recel de
desconfiansa, no l’entretingué, esperansant explicació més
satisfactoria. En havent dinat, demaná al interesat la clau, qui li
entregá ab cert roséch evident, acompanyat d’una ullada
escorcolladora qu’arribá á l’ánima de la noya. Dos minuts després, ja
tenía al Olaguer dalt de la cambra, ronsejant com qui no vol la cosa.
La Sileta acabá son fet, mudant déu cops los colors de la cara, y eixí
mossegantse’ls llabis, per no descloure’ls. Aquella tarde’l dormitori
restá altre cop tancat á pany y clau, y aixís estava’l matí següent. Mes,
ab tot, la Sileta, ans de sacrificar sas virtuts domésticas ab un
determini que no podía pendre sens gran esfors, volgué esbrinar si
havían sigut impresió falsa ó realitat, los ofensius recels d’ahir.
Reclamá també la clau, y com l’Olaguer tornés á mortificarla ab sa
presencia, pará la noya en séch sa feyna y, roja com una brasa, se li
encará dihentli:

—Que’us ha faltat alguna cosa d’aquí?

—No res.

—Ah, no res, y teniu la poca vergonya d’afrontarme!

—Jo?

—Vos. Per que ho sapigueu: jo, y tots los d’aquesta casa, som
incapassos de tocar una agulla de ningú. No necessitém centinellas
¿ho enteneu? D’are en avant, ja us lo fereu vos lo llit. Aquí, que fins
los llensols vos posavam de franch ¡poca pena!

L’Olaguer feu acció d’acostarshi y retenirla per un bras á fi de


qu’ascoltés.

—Si’m toqueu, vos vento bofetada —digué valerosament la noya


ofesa. Y abandoná’l primer pis pera no atansarshi més.

Lo fet s’esbombá arreu per tota la familia, que’s feu solidaria de


l’ofensa, y per si no bastessen las prevencións ab que d’aquell’hora en
avant miraren al Olaguer, com pressentint ja qu’á la fi n’eixiría la
fera, comensá aquést á mostrarse farreny y dur ab tothom. Ja
trobava que ningú travallava prou, cridava perque matinejessen més,
volía escursar y reduhir las vinyetas: ¡qué tant pa y veure! Y tot lo día
anava frisós per la travallada, matantse ell meteix pera dar exemple,
rondinant als mossos, maltractant las bestias, donant clatelladas al
baylet. En arribant á casa, barallava á las donas si veya vessat per
l’era lo morésch de las gallinas, ó escampat algún brotim de llenya,
reptava al gos á puntadas de peu y esferahía’l gat ensopit á la vora del
foch: ¡ala, gandul, á cassar ratas!

Avesat pe’l comers al broll contínuo de diner, no li bastava ja la llarga


contemplació que cada nit dedicava á sas talegas, ni podía avenirse
ab la cansonera producció de la terra qu’en aquells mesos d’hivern
semblava morta. Sentía afany d’arreplegar, una anyoransa mortal de
tráfech de diner lo consumía. Al veure que sas talegas no creixían,
l’assaltá’l temor de que mimvessen y llevors la retirada de la Sileta li
proporcioná’l goig de ficarlas dins la márfega pera guardarlas mellor
durant la nit.

En mitj de sas tristesas, un jorn brúfol y ventós, fugint la presencia


de sos companys, s’en pujá serrat amunt, internantse en la garriga.
Per sos peus, per son cap, tot eran cruixits de fusta. Grat sía á Deu, la
terra donchs també dava alguna cosa en aquells días curts ¡Y sentí
pessigolleig de goig, y desafiant lo vent que xisclava y tallava la cara,
se passá tot lo matí arreplegant llenya com un desaforat. Muntant,
muntant, arribá al cim que dominava la conca. Ni may qu’ho hagués
fet! Allá, entre la negror d’arbres que clapejavan la rojenca plana,
vejé destacar la grisa silueta de la vila ab son castell y campanar. Lo
cel de plom que demunt d’ella pesava, cobríala d’un vel melancólich

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