Get notes, line-by-line explanation, summary, questions and answers, critical analysis, word meanings, workbook solutions (Evergreen and Morning Star), extras, and pdf of the poem Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat by T. S. Eliot which is part of ICSE Class 9 English (Treasure Chest). However, the notes should only be treated for references and changes should be made according to the needs of the students.
Line-by-line explanation of the poem
There’s a whisper down the line at 11.39 / When the Night Mail’s ready to depart,
There are rumors or talks along the railway just before the night train is set to leave.
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble has he gone to hunt the thimble? / We must find him or the train can’t start.”
The people are searching for Skimbleshanks, the cat. The mention of “hunt the thimble” is playful, referencing a children’s game, and suggests he might be off on some trivial pursuit. Yet, his presence is crucial for the train to depart.
All the guards and all the porters and the stationmaster’s daughters / They are searching high and low, / Saying “Skimble where is Skimble for unless he’s very nimble / Then the Night Mail just can’t go.”
Everyone, from the guards to the stationmaster’s daughters, is looking for Skimbleshanks. They believe the train can’t proceed without him.
At 11.42 then the signal’s nearly due / And the passengers are frantic to a man / Then Skimble will appear and he’ll saunter to the rear: / He’s been busy in the luggage van!
At 11:42, just minutes before departure, and as the passengers are growing anxious, Skimbleshanks appears, having been occupied in the luggage compartment of the train.
He gives one flash of his glass-green eyes / And the signal goes “All Clear!” / And we’re off at last for the northern part / Of the Northern Hemisphere!
Skimbleshanks’s piercing green eyes signify everything is in order. Once he arrives, the train departs, heading north.
You may say that by and large it is Skimble who’s in charge / Of the Sleeping Car Express. / From the driver and the guards to the bagmen playing cards / He will supervise them all, more or less.
Skimbleshanks is effectively in control of the train, overseeing everything and everyone, including the staff.
Down the corridor he paces and examines all the faces / Of the travellers in the First and the Third; / He establishes control by a regular patrol / And he’d know at once if anything occurred.
He patrols the corridors, scrutinizing the passengers. He maintains order and instantly knows if something is amiss.
He will watch you without winking and he sees what you are thinking / And it’s certain that he doesn’t approve / Of hilarity and riot, so the folk are very quiet / When Skimble is about and on the move.
Skimbleshanks is observant, and his presence commands respect and quietness among the passengers.
You can play no pranks with Skimbleshanks! / He’s a Cat that cannot be ignored; / So nothing goes wrong on the Northern Mail / When Skimbleshanks is aboard.
No one dares to act out or play tricks when Skimbleshanks is on duty. His presence ensures everything runs smoothly.
Oh, it’s very pleasant when you have found your little den / With your name written up on the door. / And the berth is very neat with a newly folded sheet / And there’s not a speck of dust on the floor. / There is every sort of light-you can make it dark or bright; / There’s a handle that you turn to make a breeze. / There’s a funny little basin you’re supposed to wash your face in / And a crank to shut the window if you sneeze.
These lines depict the comfort and neatness of the train berths, highlighting the amenities available.
Then the guard looks in politely and will ask you very brightly / “Do you like your morning tea weak or strong?” / But Skimble’s just behind him and was ready to remind him, / For Skimble won’t let anything go wrong.
Even when other staff interacts with passengers, Skimbleshanks oversees them, ensuring quality service.
And when you creep into your cosy berth / And pull up the counterpane, / You ought to reflect that it’s very nice / To know that you won’t be bothered by mice / You can leave all that to the Railway Cat, / The Cat of the Railway Train!
Passengers can rest easy, knowing Skimbleshanks will handle any issues, like a mouse problem, for example.
In the watches of the night he is always fresh and bright; / Every now and then he has a cup of tea / With perhaps a drop of Scotch while he’s keeping on the watch, / Only stopping here and there to catch a flea.
Skimbleshanks remains vigilant at night, taking only short breaks for tea or to deal with minor nuisances like fleas.
You were fast asleep at Crewe and so you never knew / That he was walking up and down the station; / You were sleeping all the while he was busy at Carlisle, / Where he greets the stationmaster with elation.
The passengers, unaware of Skimbleshanks’s activities at various stations, sleep peacefully.
But you saw him at Dumfries, where he speaks to the police / If there’s anything they ought to know about: / When you get to Gallowgate there you do not have to wait / For Skimbleshanks will help you to get out!
He interacts with authorities like the police and assists passengers during stops.
He gives you a wave of his long brown tail / Which says: “I’ll see you again! / You’ll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail / The Cat of the Railway Train.”
Skimbleshanks offers a parting gesture with a flick of his tail, implying that he’ll always be present on the Midnight Mail train, ensuring passengers will meet him again the next time they travel.
Video tutorial
Word meanings
Skimbleshanks: The name of the cat, the main character of the poem.
Night Mail: Refers to a night train service, possibly one that carried mail as well as passengers.
Thimble: A small protective shield, usually made of metal or plastic, worn on a finger or thumb for sewing or stitching.
Stationmaster: An official in charge of a railway station.
Nimble: Quick and light in movement or action; agile.
Luggage van: A compartment or carriage on a train designed to store luggage.
Glass-green eyes: Refers to the unique eye color of the cat, Skimbleshanks.
Northern Hemisphere: The half of the Earth that lies north of the equator.
Sleeping Car Express: A train service where passengers can sleep in beds in specially designed compartments.
First and the Third: Refers to the first and third class compartments or sections of the train.
Hilarity and riot: Great enjoyment, excitement, or fun.
Counterpane: Another term for bedspread or quilt.
Watches of the night: Different periods or shifts during the night.
Crewe, Carlisle, Dumfries, Gallowgate: These are all places in the UK, suggesting that the poem’s train journey takes place across the UK.
Drop of Scotch: Referring to a small amount of Scotch whiskey.
Elation: Great happiness and exhilaration.
Summary of the poem
At a busy train station, just before midnight, everyone’s getting ready for the Night Mail’s trip. But there’s a problem – Skimbleshanks, the main cat, is missing! The train workers are super worried because they believe the train can’t go without him. Right when everyone’s getting super anxious, at 11:42 pm, Skimbleshanks pops out from the luggage area, signaling that it’s okay to start the trip.
As the train moves, Skimbleshanks is like the boss. He watches over everyone: the person driving the train and all the passengers. Whether you’re in the fancy seats or the regular ones, he’s there, making sure everyone’s okay and nothing crazy is happening. Everyone feels safe knowing he’s around.
It’s really cool to think of passengers getting comfy in their clean beds, all thanks to Skimbleshanks. He makes sure the little stuff, like getting morning tea ready or keeping annoying mice away, is taken care of. Even when it’s super late and everyone else is sleeping, he’s still up, maybe having a cup of tea or a small drink.
Every time the train stops at a station, Skimbleshanks says hello to the people in charge and talks a bit with the cops. And when the train finally gets to where it’s going, he says bye to everyone with a wave of his tail, as if saying “see you soon.”
So, Skimbleshanks is really important to the Night Mail. He’s not just a cat; he’s like a protector, a friend, and the one who makes sure every trip is fun and safe.
Critical analysis of the poem
T.S. Eliot’s “Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat” offers an engaging narrative set within the bustling world of the railway. At a cursory glance, it might seem like a whimsical portrayal of a cat’s adventures aboard the Night Mail train, but a deeper examination reveals a commentary on the omnipresence and control exerted by Skimbleshanks, evoking the image of an overlord who holds sway over his domain.
From the outset, the sense of urgency and importance surrounding Skimbleshanks’ presence is evident. The entire operation of the Night Mail train seems contingent upon him. This is not just a beloved pet missing but a crucial cog in the machinery. The frantic searches of the guards, porters, and even the stationmaster’s daughters underscore his importance.
As the narrative unfolds, Eliot artfully ascribes a host of almost superhuman qualities to Skimbleshanks. His punctuality, the flash of his glass-green eyes that signals an “All Clear,” and his vigilance in examining passengers all contribute to the aura of an all-seeing overseer. He’s not just a mere cat; he’s the force that keeps everything in order, ensuring the world (in this case, the train) runs as it should. His ability to “watch you without winking” and know “what you are thinking” further heightens this perception.
The passengers’ behaviors, characterized by their silence and respect when Skimbleshanks is “about and on the move,” resonate with the behaviors one might expect in the presence of a powerful ruler or overlord. The notion that “You can play no pranks with Skimbleshanks!” and that he’s a “Cat that cannot be ignored” reinforces his dominance.
Furthermore, the comforts and securities aboard the train, such as the absence of mice and the assurance of a neat berth, are attributed to Skimbleshanks’ influence. It’s as if, under his watchful eyes, everything falls into place, and any potential for disorder or discomfort is preemptively quashed.
Eliot’s choice of settings and scenes, ranging from the quiet hours of the night to the bustling stations of Crewe and Carlisle, paints Skimbleshanks as both omnipresent and omnipotent. He’s everywhere, ensuring everything is as it should be, from the smallest detail to the grand operation of the train itself.
Themes of the poem
Absolute Control: Skimbleshanks’s presence is essential for the train’s departure, indicating his absolute control over the train’s operations. The train cannot move without his approval.
Surveillance: Skimbleshanks constantly monitors everyone, from the staff to the passengers. “He will watch you without winking and he sees what you are thinking.” This line suggests an omnipresent, omniscient figure who observes everything, reminiscent of a surveillance state.
Suppression of Dissent: The passengers and crew are “very quiet” when Skimbleshanks is around, and there is no “hilarity or riot.” This might suggest an environment where freedom of expression and joy is stifled in favor of order and discipline.
Inescapable Presence: No matter where one goes or what time it is, Skimbleshanks is there. His omnipresence can be comforting to some but also oppressive to others, as he is always watching and supervising.
Fear and Respect: The phrase “You can play no pranks with Skimbleshanks! He’s a Cat that cannot be ignored” indicates that he commands a mix of respect and fear. There’s a sense that one shouldn’t cross him.
Anthropomorphism as a Tool of Power: By attributing human characteristics to Skimbleshanks, such as drinking tea and supervising, he is elevated from a mere cat to a figure of authority and dominance.
About the author
Born in Missouri on 26 September 1888, Thomas Stearns Eliot later moved to England when he was 25 and eventually became a British citizen. In his early years, Eliot suffered from a congenital double inguinal hernia, which restricted his ability to engage in many physical activities. Consequently, he often found himself detached from his peers.
This isolation, however, nurtured his affinity for literature. Once he discovered the joy of reading, he was soon captivated by tales of wild adventures, stories from the Wild West, and the exciting escapades in Mark Twain’s Tom Sawyer. His friend, Robert Sencourt, remarked about how a young Eliot would frequently immerse himself in massive books, often choosing a cozy spot in the window-seat.
From 1898 to 1905, Eliot pursued his studies at Smith Academy, the preparatory division for boys of Washington University. Here, he delved into languages such as Latin, Ancient Greek, French, and German. The world of poetry beckoned him at the age of 14, significantly influenced by Edward Fitzgerald’s rendition of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam.
Eliot’s literary prowess is renowned, particularly for his works like The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock and The Waste Land. Additionally, he penned seven notable plays, with Murder in the Cathedral standing out. His exemplary contributions to literature were recognized with the Nobel Prize in 1948.
In the 1930s, under the pseudonym “Old Possum”, Eliot composed delightful cat poems, often sending them as letters to his godchildren. A known cat enthusiast, Eliot had several cats, endearingly naming them with whimsical tags such as Jellylorum, Pettipaws, Wiscus, and George Pushdragon. These poems inspired Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 1981 musical, Cats, in which the character Skimbleshanks, derived from Eliot’s work, is depicted as a spirited and lively figure.
Evergreen workbook answers/solutions
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Who is the speaker in the poem?
(a) the poet (b) one of the passengers on the train (c) all the passengers (d) the cat
Answer: (b) one of the passengers on the train
2. What kind of situation is presented in the poem?
(a) realistic (b) absurd but amusing (c) amusing (d) serious
Answer: (b) absurd but amusing
3. Select the option that correctly displays the characteristics of Skimble.
1. Silly 2. Intelligent 3. Lively 4. Alert 5. Dull 6. revengeful
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 4, 5 and 6 (c) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 5 and 6
Answer: (c) 2, 3 and 4
4. Which of these statements is NOT true?
(a) The cat offers morning tea to the passengers. (b) The cat watches all the passengers and their actions and thoughts. (c) The cat is the most important one on the train. (d) The train is heading towards the far North.
Answer: (d) The train is heading towards the far North
5. The cat has been treated like a human being.’ Which figure of speech is involved in it?
(a) alliteration (b) metaphor (c) personification (d) none of the above
Answer: (c) personification
6. What kind of tone is adopted by the speaker?
(a) light and colloquial (b) solemn (c) serious (d) sarcastic
Answer: (a) light and colloquial
7. Select the option which does not have internal rhyme.
(a) You’ll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail. (b) When you get to Gallowgate there you do not have to wait. (c) And it’s certain that he doesn’t approve. (d) And the berth is very neat with a newly folded sheet.
Answer: (c) And it’s certain that he doesn’t approve
8. The destination of the train is towards
(a) The South (b) The North (c) The West (d) The East
Answer: (b) The North
9. Which of the cat’s acts is most amusing?
(a) its remaining busy in the luggage van (b) its having a drop of Scotch to fresh himself (c) its watching all the faces carefully (d) its going on regular patrol
Answer: (b) its having a drop of Scotch to fresh himself
10. Which of these would you associate with Skimble?
(a) duty-conscious (b) silly (c) intruding (d) dictatorial
Answer: (a) duty-conscious
Comprehension Passages
Passage – 1
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
There’s a whisper down the line at 11.39
When the Night Mail’s ready to depart,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble has he gone to hunt the thimble?
We must find him or the train can’t start.”
All the guards and all the porters and the stationmaster’s daughters
They are searching high and low,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble for unless he’s very nimble
Then the Night Mail just can’t go.”
At 11.42 then the signal’s nearly due
And the passengers are frantic to a man
Then Skimble will appear and he’ll saunter to the rear:
He’s been busy in the luggage van!
(i) Who is the speaker? What does he observe? Is it normal?
Answer: The speaker is one of the passengers on the Night Mail train. He observes the strange situation where a cat named Skimble seems to be in charge of the train’s departure, which is not a normal thing.
(ii) What is surprising about Skimble?
Answer: It is quite surprising and amusing that a cat is treated as the most important creature without whose presence the Night Mail train cannot depart on time. This ascribes human-like importance to a cat.
(iii) What tells you that Skimble is duty-conscious?
Answer: Skimble’s timely appearance just before 11.42 when the signal is due shows that he is very dutiful and conscious of his responsibility for the train’s smooth functioning.
(iv) What causes commotion among all the passengers and the railway crew?
Answer: Skimble’s sudden absence and the urgency shown by the railway staff and passengers to find him creates a mood of anxiety, confusion and commotion, highlighting the cat’s perceived significance.
(v) What duties are performed by the cat during the journey?
Answer: Skimble dons multiple roles during the train’s journey – he supervises the crew members like the driver, guards, porters etc, he patrols the passenger compartments, he keeps a watchful eye over the passengers’ conduct, he ensures everything functions orderly and smoothly on the moving train.
Passage – 2
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
He gives one flash of his glass-green eyes
And the signal goes “All Clear!”
And we’re off at last for the northern part
Of the Northern Hemisphere!
(i) Why was there restlessness among the passengers early in the context?
Answer: There was anxiety and restlessness among the passengers early on due to the absence of Skimble the cat who is regarded as essential for the train’s departure.
(ii) What tells you about the importance of the cat?
Answer: When Skimble gives the green signal with his eyes, the train whistles and departs, indicating the cat holds authority over the train’s movement, underscoring his importance.
(iii) Where is the train heading towards? Why has no particular city of its destination been mentioned?
Answer: The train is heading northwards but no particular station or city name is mentioned about its destination. This is because the whole situation cannot be real and adds to the absurdity and mystery surrounding the cat’s railway network.
(iv) Which of the actions of the cat are quite amusing?
Answer: Skimble’s various anthropomorphic actions like providing signals for the train, consuming scotch drink, catching fleas, etc are quite unrealistic and amusing, adding a comic tone.
(v) Do you think the cat represents some dictator of the Post World War II? Why/Why not?
Answer: Yes, Skimble’s controlling nature, constant vigilance over the crew and passengers, and maintenance of order and discipline remind one of a dictatorial figure or the strict Big Brother who oversees everything in an authoritarian regime.
Passage-3
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
You may say that by and large it is Skimble who’s in charge
Of the Sleeping Car Express.
From the driver and the guards to the bagmen playing cards
He will supervise them all, more or less.
Down the corridor he paces and examines all the faces
Of the travellers in the First and the Third;
He establishes control by a regular patrol
And he’d know at once if anything occurred.
He will watch you without winking and he sees what you are thinking
And it’s certain that he doesn’t approve
Of hilarity and riot, so the folk are very quiet
When Skimble is about and on the move.
You can play no pranks with Skimbleshanks!
He’s a Cat that cannot be ignored;
So nothing goes wrong on the Northern Mail
When Skimbleshanks is aboard.
(i) Who is most important on the Northern Mail, and why?
Answer: Skimble the cat is shown as the most important living being on the Northern Mail train, being completely in charge of its functioning.
(ii) Which actions of the cat remind you of the image of the Big Brother in a dictatorial regime?
Answer: Skimble’s activities like regularly patrolling the compartments, examining the passenger’s faces, keeping a watch on their thoughts and actions are reminiscent of the surveillance and control by Big Brother in a totalitarian dictatorship.
(iii) Why does nothing go wrong on the Northern Mail?
Answer: When Skimble is aboard, he ensures everything runs smoothly on the train and does not allow anything to go wrong due to his supervision.
(iv) What does the cat do when the train reaches its destination?
Answer: When the train reaches its destination, Skimble bids goodbye to the passengers by waving his long brown tail in a friendly manner.
(v) Why does the cat dislike sense of ‘hilarity’ and noisy merriment?
Answer: He dislikes any kind of unruly behavior, noise or disturbances. He wants to maintain orderly conduct on the train, so is averse to any sense of uncontrolled merriment or riotous behavior among passengers.
Passage -4
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Oh, it’s very pleasant when you have found your little den
With your name written up on the door.
And the berth is very neat with a newly folded sheet
And there’s not a speck of dust on the floor.
There is every sort of light – you can make it dark or bright;
There’s funny little basin you’re supposed to wash your face in
And a crank to shut the window if you sneeze.
(i) What does ‘little den’ signify? How is it made cosy?
Answer: The ‘little den’ refers to the individual sleeping berths allotted to passengers. With clean sheets, no dust, and the passenger’s name tags, these compartments are made quite cosy.
(ii) What facilities are available in the ‘little den’?
Answer: Facilities like lights to adjust brightness, wash basins for freshening up, window knobs to close them if needed are available in the berths for passenger convenience.
(iii) How does Skimble ensure that the passengers have no trouble during the journey?
Answer: Skimble takes care to ensure there are no mice or other issues to bother the passengers during the overnight journey. He tries to provide a smooth travel experience.
(iv) What impression do you form of Skimble?
Answer: Skimble comes across as an efficient, polite and caring cat who is mindful of the passengers’ needs and comforts.
(v) In what way does the poet make the cat a hilarious creature?
Answer: Skimble’s very human-like actions of supervising the train staff, ensuring the berths are well-maintained, reminding the guard about tea, etc make him a very amusing and hilarious creature.
Passage-5
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Then the guard looks in politely and will ask you very brightly
“Do you like your morning tea weak or strong?”
But Skimble’s just behind him and was ready to remind him,
For Skimble won’t let anything go wrong.
And when you creep into your cosy berth
And pull up the counterpane,
You ought to reflect that it’s very nice
To know that you won’t be bothered by mice
You can leave all that to the Railway Cat,
The Cat of the Railway Train!
(i) What has made the passengers and the crew of the Night Mail restless earlier in the context?
Answer: Earlier, Skimble’s sudden disappearance had caused anxiety and restlessness among the passengers and rail staff, highlighting the cat’s importance.
(ii) How does the cat perform as a supervisor?
Answer: Skimble keeps a close eye on the guards and other staff, reprimanding or reminding them just like a train manager if something goes amiss.
(iii) ‘…Skimble won’t let anything go wrong.’ Comment.
Answer: Skimble ensures that everything functions properly on the running train and does not allow even the smallest mishap to occur due to his continual supervision.
(iv) How does the cat provide all comforts to the passengers?
Answer: He takes care that the passenger berths are cozy for a peaceful sleep, free of mice or disturbances.
(v) Which of the cat’s actions could cause suspicion in our mind that it is conceived as more than a feline creature?
Answer: Skimble’s strict vigilance in monitoring everyone’s actions seems beyond the role of an ordinary cat, making us suspicious of some deeper motive or allegory.
Passage -6
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
In the watches of the night he is always fresh and bright;
Every now and then he has a cup of tea
With perhaps a drop of Scotch while he’s keeping on the watch,
Only stopping here and there to catch a flea.
You were fast asleep at Crewe and so you never knew
That he was walking up and down the station;
You were sleeping all the while he was busy at Carlisle,
Where he greets the stationmaster with elation.
But you saw him at Dumfries, where he speaks to the police
If there’s anything they ought to know about:
When you get to Gallowgate there you do not have to wait
For Skimbleshanks will help you to get out!
He gives you a wave of his long brown tail
Which says: “I’ll see you again!
You’ll meet without fail on the midnight Mail
The Cat of the Railway Train.”
(i) What role is played by the Cat on the Night Mail? Describe briefly.
Answer: Skimble effectively plays the role of manager, supervisor and overseer on the Night Mail train. He remains awake and alert at night, interacts with station masters at stops, and monitors staff and passengers.
(ii) How does the speaker view the role of the cat?
Answer: The speaker presents Skimble as an important and efficient cat who carries out his duties politely and in an amusing manner.
(iii) What does the cat do to keep all the passengers comfortable?
Answer: Skimble provides help, guidance and assistance to passengers whenever needed. He ensures orderly, peaceful conduct for passenger comfort.
(iv) What does the cat not allow anyone to do?
Answer: He does not permit any kind of unruly behaviour, pranks, noisy merriment or disturbances that could disrupt train discipline.
(v) How would you view the last gesture of the ‘Cat of the Railway Train’? Is it benevolent or sinister?
Answer: Though Skimble’s waving goodbye seems like a benevolent gesture, it also subtly underscores his position of authority and control over the train’s world that the passengers inhabit during the journey.
Morning Star workbook answers/solutions
Multiple Choice Questions II
1. What was the cause of confusion at 11.39 pm?
(a) The signal was not working.
(b) The train was late.
(c) The train was not ready.
(d) Skimble was no where to be found.
Answer: (d) Skimble was no where to be found.
2. The word “nimble’ means.
(a) quick
(b) short
(c) eat
(d) sleep
Answer: (a) quick
3. “He gives one flash of his glass-green eyes” and what happens?
(a) The stationmaster gives the signal
(b) The train begins its journey
(c) Skimbleshanks drives the train
(d) Ticket Collector checks the tickets.
Answer: (b) The train begins its journey
4. How does Skimble establish his absolute control?
(a) By speaking to the stationmaster
(b) By a regular patrol
(c) By following the guard
(d) By talking to the passengers
Answer: (b) By a regular patrol
5. When Skimbleshanks is aboard
(a) no one could play pranks.
(b) all the passengers are tense.
(c) he drinks tea.
(d) he creates a havoc.
Answer: (a) no one could play pranks.
6. Which of the following is pleasant for the passengers?
(a) The berth is neat and clean
(b) There’s not a speck of dust on the floor
(c) The light and fan are operative
(d) All of the above.
Answer: (d) All of the above.
7. What does Skimble remind the guards?
(a) The passengers choice of morning tea
(b) To wake up the passengers
(c) That he won’t let anything go wrong
(d) That the station would arrive soon.
Answer: (a) The passengers choice of morning tea
8. The Railway Cat is
(a) bright and energetic.
(b) lazy.
(c) bored.
(d) loving.
Answer: (a) bright and energetic.
9. The whispering started at ____ and Skimbleshanks appeared at___
(a) 11:39 pm, 11:47 pm.
(b) 11:49 pm, 11:52 pm.
(c) 11:39 pm, 11:42 pm.
(d) 11:49 pm, 11:50 pm.
Answer: (a) 11:39 pm, 11:47 pm
10. When everyone was looking for Skimbleshanks where was he?
(a) Eating
(b) In the luggage van
(c) Sleeping
(d) Playing games
Answer: (b) In the luggage van
11. The Railway Cat speaks to _____ at the Dumfries station.
(a) his friend
(b) a passenger
(c) the guards
(d) the police
Answer: (d) the police
12. How did Skimble bid goodbye to the passengers?
(a) By shaking hands
(b) By waving his tail
(c) By making loud noises
(d) By hugging the passengers
Answer: (b) By waving his tail
Context Questions
Extract 1
There’s a whisper down the line at 11.39
When the Night Mail’s ready to depart,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble has he gone to hunt the
thimble?
We must find him or the train can’t start
(i) What’s the whisper down the line who all are whispering?
Answer: The whisper down the line is that the Night Mail is ready to depart, but Skimbleshanks is missing. The guards, porters, and the stationmaster’s daughters are the ones whispering, searching for him.
(ii) Who is the Skimble? what work does he do?
Answer: Skimbleshanks, also known as the Railway Cat, is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the Night Mail train. He supervises the train, maintaining order and ensuring everything is in place before the train can depart.
(iii) What does “hunt the thimble” mean? What was Skimble doing at this time?
Answer: “Hunt the thimble” is a phrase suggesting that Skimble is difficult to find, as if playing a game of hide-and-seek. At this time, Skimble was likely busy in the luggage van, attending to his duties.
(iv) Why can’t the train start without Skimbleshanks? How did the tray finally start?
Answer: The train cannot start without Skimbleshanks because he is essential for the operation and supervision of the train. The train finally started when Skimbleshanks appeared from the luggage van, signalling that everything was in order.
(v) Did it depend on time? How did the scene at the train change after Skimble appeared?
Answer: Yes, the train was on a schedule, but it could not leave until Skimbleshanks ensured everything was in place. Once Skimble appeared, the passengers calmed down, and the train departed smoothly.
Extract 2
All the guards and all the porters and the stationmaster’s daughters
They are searching high and low,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble for unless he’s very nimble
Then the Night Mail just can’t go
(i) Identify and name two figures of speech used in this extract?
Answer: The figures of speech are:
- Alliteration: “Skimble where is Skimble” (repetition of the ‘S’ sound).
- Hyperbole: “The Night Mail just can’t go” (exaggeration of the importance of Skimbleshanks).
(ii) Why is it important for Skimbleshanks to be on the train?
Answer: It is important because Skimbleshanks ensures that everything runs smoothly, from supervising the staff to keeping order among the passengers. Without him, the train cannot depart.
(iii) Why would Skimble need to be very nimble?
Answer: Skimbleshanks needs to be nimble to quickly attend to his various duties, ensuring the train’s timely departure and smooth operation.
(iv) Who are ‘They in the second line? Why are they frantic? Did they calm down? How?
Answer: “They” refers to the guards, porters, and the stationmaster’s daughters. They are frantic because the train cannot leave without Skimbleshanks. They calm down once Skimbleshanks appears and takes charge.
(v) Imagine you are onboard this train, describe the manhunt for Skimble.
Answer: The manhunt for Skimbleshanks would involve everyone searching the train, looking in every compartment and luggage van, asking passengers and staff, with increasing anxiety as the departure time approached.
Extract 3
You may say that by and large, it is Skamble who’s in charge
Of the Sleeping Car Express
From the driver and the guards to the bagmen playing cards
He will supervise them all, more or less.
Down the corridor, he paces and examines all the faces
Of the travellers in the First and the Third;
He establishes control by a regular patrol
And he’d know at once if anything occurred.
(i) Who will supervise them all (the staff)? Who are they who need supervision?
Answer: Skimbleshanks supervises everyone on the train, including the driver, guards, and even the bagmen playing cards.
(ii) Whose faces does the supervisor examine? What can he gauge from their faces?
Answer: Skimbleshanks examines the faces of the passengers in the First and Third classes. He can gauge if anything is amiss or if passengers are causing trouble.
(iii) Briefly describe how he establishes control. Why does he pace the corridor?
Answer: Skimbleshanks establishes control by regularly patrolling the train, checking on passengers and staff. He paces the corridor to maintain order and to quickly respond if anything goes wrong.
(iv) Do you think the supervisor can do the same in other modes of transport plane, bus, metro? State how
Answer: In other modes of transport, a supervisor could play a similar role, though it would vary. On a plane, for example, the supervisor would ensure safety protocols are followed, while on a bus or metro, they might ensure punctuality and passenger behavior.
(v) Why do you think the train is called Sleeping Car Express? How does the supervisor ensure that the name holds true?
Answer: The train is called the Sleeping Car Express because it carries sleeping passengers. Skimbleshanks ensures that everything runs smoothly, allowing passengers to sleep peacefully without disruptions.
Extract 4
Oh, it’s very pleasant when you have found your little den
With your name written up on the door.
And the berth is very neat with a newly folded sheet
And there’s not a speck of dust on the floor.
There is every sort of light-you can make it dark or bright;
There’s a handle that you turn to make a breeze.
There’s a funny little basin you’re supposed to wash your face in
And a crank to shut the window if you sneeze.
(i) Why is the cabin called your little den? What kind of security does it offer the passengers?
Answer: The cabin is called “your little den” because it is a personal, cozy space for each passenger. It offers security by providing a private, neat, and well-maintained place for rest.
(ii) Describe the little den, as mentioned in the extract.
Answer: The den is described as neat, with a freshly folded sheet, a dust-free floor, adjustable lighting, a small basin for washing, and a crank to close the window.
(iii) Were the passengers scared of Skimbleshanke? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer: No, the passengers were not scared of Skimbleshanks. They respected him because of his control and efficiency in ensuring a smooth journey.
(iv) What were the arrangements made for the comfortable journey of the passengers?
Answer: The passengers had neat berths, clean sheets, adjustable lighting, a small basin, and a crank for the window, ensuring comfort throughout the journey.
(v) Compare the facilities of the train cabin with the facilities of a cabin in today’s train. Would you find a Skimbleshanks today? Why?
Answer: Modern train cabins might have more advanced amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets, but cleanliness, privacy, and adjustable lighting remain essential. However, finding a “Skimbleshanks” today is rare, as technology now handles many tasks Skimbleshanks did manually.
Extract 5
But you saw him at Dumfries, where he speaks to the police
If there’s anything they ought to know about
When you get to Gallowgate there you do not have to wait-
For Skimbleshanks will help you to get out!
He gives you a wave of his long brown tail
Which says: “I’ll see you again!
You’ll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail
The Cat of the Railway Train”
(I) What does Skimble do at Dumfries station? Why?
Answer: At Dumfries station, Skimbleshanks speaks to the police, likely providing important information to ensure the journey continues smoothly.
(ii) When do you think the train reaches its destination? Name the first and last stations of the Midnight Mail.
Answer: The Midnight Mail likely reaches its destination in the early hours. The poem doesn’t specify the exact stations, but Dumfries and Gallowgate are mentioned as stops.
(iii) Why do the passengers not have to wait to get down at Gallowgate?
Answer: The passengers don’t have to wait at Gallowgate because Skimbleshanks efficiently manages everything, ensuring they can disembark promptly.
(iv) How does Skimble bid goodbye to the passengers? What does the wave of long brown tail mean?
Answer: Skimbleshanks bids goodbye by waving his long brown tail, which suggests that he will see the passengers again, likely on another journey.
(v) Once the passengers fall asleep, what does the railway cat do?
Answer: After the passengers fall asleep, Skimbleshanks continues his duties, staying alert and occasionally having tea or interacting with the staff to ensure everything remains in order.
Extras/additional
Questions and answers
Extract 1
There’s a whisper down the line at 11.39
When the Night Mail’s ready to depart,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble has he gone to hunt the
thimble?
We must find him or the train can’t start.”
All the guards and all the porters and the stationmaster’s
daughters
They are searching high and low,
Saying “Skimble where is Skimble for unless he’s very nimble
Then the Night Mail just can’t go.”
(i) Why is there a sense of urgency surrounding Skimble’s disappearance?
Answer: The urgency stems from the fact that the Night Mail is scheduled to depart at 11.39, and according to the poem, the train cannot leave without Skimble. This implies that he plays a crucial role in the train’s operation, creating a time-sensitive situation.
(ii) What does the phrase “hunt the thimble” suggest about the possible reasons for Skimble’s absence?
Answer: The phrase suggests that Skimble may have wandered off due to his playful and inquisitive nature, possibly chasing after a small object like a thimble. It implies that his disappearance is not likely due to any serious issue but rather his curious personality.
(iii) How does the involvement of various railway staff in the search for Skimble emphasize his importance?
Answer: The fact that guards, porters, and even the stationmaster’s daughters are involved in the search demonstrates Skimble’s significance within the railway system. Their participation highlights that he is not just a pet but a valued member of the team whose presence is essential for the train’s departure.
(iv) What can be inferred about the potential consequences if Skimble is not found in time?
Answer: If Skimble is not found before 11.39, the Night Mail will be delayed, potentially causing inconvenience to passengers and disrupting the train schedule. This underscores the importance of Skimble’s role and the potential repercussions of his absence.
(v) How does the repetition of the phrase “Skimble where is Skimble” contribute to the overall atmosphere of the extract?
Answer: The repetition of “Skimble where is Skimble” creates a sense of anxiety and urgency, mirroring the frantic search for the missing cat. It reinforces the importance of finding him quickly and adds to the suspenseful atmosphere of the scene.
Extract 5
He gives you a wave of his long brown tail
Which says: “I’ll see you again!
You’ll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail
The Cat of the Railway Train.
(i) What message is conveyed by Skimble’s “wave of his long brown tail” at the end of the journey?
Answer: The wave of his tail serves as a friendly farewell gesture, acknowledging the passengers and assuring them that he will be there for their next journey on the Midnight Mail. It reinforces his constant presence and role as a guardian of the train.
(ii) What does the phrase “You’ll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail” suggest about the reliability of the train service and Skimble’s presence?
Answer: The phrase emphasizes the dependability of both the Midnight Mail service and Skimble’s presence. It implies that the train runs consistently and that Skimble can always be found on board, ensuring a sense of familiarity and security for regular passengers.
(iii) How does the tone of this final extract contribute to the overall feeling of satisfaction at the end of the poem?
Answer: The final extract has a warm and reassuring tone, leaving the reader with a positive impression of Skimble and the Midnight Mail experience. It suggests a successful and enjoyable journey, with the promise of future encounters with the beloved railway cat.
(iv) How does the repetition of “The Cat of the Railway Train” in the final line emphasize Skimble’s unique identity?
Answer: The repetition reinforces Skimble’s unique identity and solidifies his association with the Midnight Mail. It emphasizes that he is not just any cat but “The” Cat of the Railway Train, a special and integral part of the train’s identity.
(v) What qualities of Skimble are highlighted in this final extract that solidify his status as a beloved figure on the railway?
Answer: The final extract highlights Skimble’s friendliness, reliability, and reassuring presence. His farewell wave and the promise of future encounters solidify his status as a beloved figure on the railway, appreciated by both passengers and staff for his dedication and charm.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What time is mentioned when Skimble is missing initially?
A. 11.29 B. 11.39 C. 11.49 D. 11.59
Answer: B. 11.39
24. Which train will passengers see Skimble again on?
A. Morning Mail B. Day Mail C. Midnight Mail D. Evening Mail
Answer: C. Midnight Mail
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger who manages Online Free Notes. An avid reader of Victorian literature, his favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. He dreams of travelling the world. You can connect with him on social media. He does personal writing on ronism.
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