CBSE Class 9 English Chapter F.2 A Dog Named Duke NCERT Solutions

Solution:

1. The word 'they' refers to the neighbours of the new resident, Chuck Hooper.
2. Chuck Hooper walked like a struggling mechanical giant because he was recovering from a severe accident that affected his ability to walk steadily and maintain balance.
3. The word 'rampageous' means wild, violent, and uncontrolled. In this context, it describes the energetic and perhaps boisterous nature of the dog, Duke, as he pulled his owner.

Solution:

1. These lines reveal Duke's sensitivity and deep understanding of his master, Chuck Hooper's, condition. Duke sensed that Chuck was not well enough to engage in playful activities and showed his concern through his actions and expression.
2. Reproachful means expressing disapproval or disappointment. In this context, Duke's eye conveyed a sense of sadness or gentle chiding, indicating his awareness of Chuck's limitations.
3. Duke was unhappy with Hooper because he understood that his master's physical condition prevented him from playing or engaging in activities like running around the house. Duke's reaction showed his empathy and concern for Chuck's well-being.

Solution:

1. This statement accurately describes Duke's character. After witnessing Chuck's struggle to maintain balance when he accidentally jumped on him, Duke understood the severity of his master's condition. This realization made him more sensitive, loving, and caring, leading him to change his behavior to be more supportive.
2. This is a correct inference. Duke recognized that his master, Chuck, was undergoing a difficult recovery and required constant companionship and support. By staying beside Chuck's bed day and night, Duke provided emotional comfort and demonstrated his unwavering loyalty.

Solution:

1. The 'two fellows' referred to are Chuck Hooper and his dog, Duke. Chuck Hooper is the one who can't move freely due to his injuries, while Duke is the one who can't talk.
2. Duke tried to break the boredom. He did this by persistently nudging and encouraging Chuck to take him for his walks, thereby trying to introduce some activity and change into their monotonous routine.
3. The boredom could harm them in different ways. For Duke, it manifested as restlessness and unease, showing his need for activity. For Chuck, prolonged inactivity and boredom could have led to a complete confinement to his bed, potentially hindering his recovery and mental state.

Solution:

1. Duke is Chuck Hooper's pet dog. He had met with a serious accident, which resulted in severe injuries and ultimately his death.
2. The order announced that Chuck Hooper had been promoted to the position of Assistant National Sales Manager.
3. The promotion was considered a tribute to Duke because the company acknowledged that Duke's presence and the motivation he provided were instrumental in Chuck's recovery and his ability to return to work and achieve this success. The credit for Chuck's renewed vigor and subsequent promotion was, in a way, attributed to Duke.

Solution:

1. Chuck Hooper's strong determination, resilience, and his ability to overcome his physical limitations, significantly aided by Duke's support, helped him achieve this promotion. His dedication to working full days despite his past injuries was crucial.
2. Chuck's promotion revealed that the company's management was compassionate, fair, and recognized employees' potential and efforts, even after significant personal challenges. They believed in giving opportunities based on merit and perseverance.
3. Chuck owed his success to both himself and Duke. He was responsible for his hard work, determination, and perseverance. Duke was equally responsible as his unwavering presence and the motivation he provided were essential for Chuck's recovery and his ability to return to work with full vigor.

Solution:

1. Chuck's dog, Duke, has been described as a 'missile of joy'. This phrase captures Duke's energetic and enthusiastic nature when expressing happiness.
2. Duke hit Chuck above the belt when he jumped on him with immense excitement and force, as a way to express his joy upon meeting his master. This was a typical display of Duke's exuberant affection.
3. Chuck found it difficult to maintain his balance for two main reasons: Firstly, Duke's sudden and forceful jump was unexpected and applied significant impact. Secondly, Chuck's own physical disability, resulting from his accident, had weakened him and impaired his ability to quickly regain balance or withstand such a sudden impact.

Solution:

Duke met his end on the evening of October 12, 1957. The Hooper family had guests as Chuck had recovered significantly. Suddenly, the screech of brakes was heard outside. Upon looking, Chuck was shocked to see that Duke had been involved in a serious accident. Despite efforts, Duke's injuries were too severe, and he tragically died, bringing immense sorrow to the Hooper family.

Solution:

After his accident, Chuck remained hospitalized for a month in a critical condition. Following his hospital stay, it took him a considerable amount of time and effort, supported by Duke's presence, to regain his strength and eventually stand on his own feet again.