Page 48 - Lavender-B-6

‘Oh, is that all? I thought something awful had happened,’

Akash was relieved. ‘Look, it’s just 9.30. Sir is sure to be up.
Let us go and see him. You can explain what’s wrong!’ Why do you think Just a Minute!
Nakul is so
‘You’re coming, too? Thanks!’ Nakul looked relieved as the pessimistic in life?
two boys crept out of the dorm and walked to the master’s
study. Mr Verghese was startled to see them and listened to
Nakul’s stammered explanation. He unlocked a drawer and went through the

answer scripts.
‘You have written your name and roll number, Nakul. You panicked unnecessarily.’ He

watched them leave his room.

Soon the exams were behind them and the next event the boys looked forward to was the
School’s Annual Day. As Nakul was tall and well-built for his age, the master chose him to
play an important role in the drama.

‘Help! I’ve got to learn so many lines!’ Nakul groaned.

‘I’ll help you to practise till you’re word-
perfect,’ Akash grinned.

Nakul was glad for his generous offer
and with Akash’s constant rehearsals,
soon learned his lines.

‘I hope I won’t forget the words,’ Nakul
looked tense before the curtains went up.

‘Don’t worry, the words will come to you
easily,’ Akash encouraged.

To his surprise, Nakul found that he
actually enjoyed his role!

‘Thanks, Akash! You’re a real gem!’ he
said, warmly.

‘I am glad I could help you,’
Akash replied.

The master decided to take the Junior and awful: very bad or unpleasant
relieved: happy that something unpleasant has
Middle School boys on a picnic. The boys not happened

wheedled the cooks into packing hampers of startled: slightly shocked
stammered: to speak with difficulty
their favourite eats. Just as they set out, the sun wheedled: persuaded
went behind the clouds. hamper: a large basket usually with a cover for
packing articles

48