The next day everyone was ready. The Great One came. The air became soft and balmy. The streams tinkled as they tumbled over little rocks.

“Great One, here is my gift,” said each, laying gifts at her feet. After everyone had given their gifts, the Great One looked at the little grey squirrel, and asked “Little one, why are you quiet”?

“I have nothing grand to offer you. I don’t glow or sing, but what I have I give with my heart,” and he scampered away. He returned, dragging his dry branches. The Great One looked grave.

“I see beauty in form and sound...” all waited holding their breath. “But the prize goes to the grey squirrel, for I can use the seeds and sow them; new life will burst forth...trees will bear more fruit. It is a gift not only for today but also for all our tomorrows.”

The creatures then marvelled saying, “How foolish we were to think only of the present. Three cheers for the little squirrel!”

laburnum (n) : a small tree with groups of yellow flowers hanging down
palash (n) : a tree with red flowers, supposed to be sacred
turquoise (adj): a bluish green colour

1. “There was excitement in the air.” Why?
2. Who will sing a song?
3. How was the squirrel? Why?
4. Who was the winner of the contest?
5. Why did the Great One give prize to the squirrel?
6. you were the judge, who would get the prize? Why? Give reasons for your answer.