drive a hard bargain (idiom) : work hard to negotiate agreements in one's own
favour
daft (adj) : stupid / silly
pinch (v) : steal
mantelpiece (n) : a shelf projecting from the wall over the
fireplace
usher (v) : lead / show the way / welcome
complacent (adj) : self-satisfied / unconcerned
chirpily (adv) : cheerfully and actively
snug (adj) : warm and comfortable
overdue (adj) : not paid by the expected time
swindling (n) : cheating somebody for property or money
transfixed (v) : became motionless in fear
chuckling (v) : laughing quietly out of mild amusement or satisfaction
clad (adj) : wearing a particular type of clothing
malicious (adj) : harmful
comprehension
Answer the following questions.
1. What qualities of Mrs. Slater have you noticed?it?'?
2. Why does Mrs. Slater decide to shift the bureau from her father's room before the
arrival of the Jordans? How does Henry react to the suggestion?it?'?
3. Why do the Jordans take a long time to get to the house of the Slaters? What does it
show about the two sisters' attitude towards each other?it?'?
4. Ben appreciates his father-in-law saying, 'It's a good thing he did'. Later, he calls him a
'drunken old beggar'. Why does he change his opinion about his father-in-law?it?'?
5. What made Mr.Henry feel shocked to hear Victoria saying 'Are you planning to pinch
it?'?