Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 2 Question Answer

Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 2 Question Answer | The Thief’s Story

Welcome to HSLC Guru. In this article, we provide a complete set of questions and answers for Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 2 – The Thief’s Story by Ruskin Bond. This chapter is an important part of the ASSEB (Assam State Board of Secondary Education) Class 10 English syllabus. Here you will find the summary, textbook solutions (Think about it and Talk about it), additional short and long answer questions, MCQs, extract-based questions, and value-based questions to help you prepare thoroughly for your HSLC examination.

Summary of The Thief’s Story

“The Thief’s Story” is a short story written by the famous Indian author Ruskin Bond. It is a heartwarming tale about trust, honesty, and the transformative power of kindness and education. The story is narrated by Hari Singh, a fifteen-year-old boy who is an experienced thief. He changes his name every month to avoid being caught by the police and his former employers.

Hari meets a young man named Anil at a wrestling match and decides to befriend him by flattering him. Anil is about twenty-five years old, a struggling writer who earns money irregularly by writing articles for magazines. Hari asks Anil for work, and though Anil cannot afford to pay him wages, he agrees to let Hari stay with him in exchange for cooking meals. However, the first meal Hari cooks is so terrible that Anil throws it away to a stray dog. Hari gives Anil his most appealing smile and manages to stay. Anil then teaches Hari how to cook properly and promises to teach him how to read and write.

Hari begins to enjoy his new life. He cooks meals, goes to the bazaar to buy daily supplies (making a small profit of about a rupee a day), and starts learning to write. Anil is aware of Hari’s small daily profits from the shopping but does not seem to mind. Hari learns to write his name and is excited when Anil promises to teach him to write whole sentences and add numbers. He begins to realise that education could make him a “big, clever, and respected man” someday.

One evening, Anil comes home with a bundle of money — six hundred rupees — that he earned by selling a book to a publisher. He puts the money under his mattress before going to sleep. That night, Hari’s old habit of stealing takes over. He sneaks out of his bed, slides his hand under the mattress, and steals the money. He then heads to the railway station to catch the 10:30 Lucknow Express and escape the city.

However, when the train arrives, Hari hesitates. He cannot bring himself to board the train. After the train leaves, he finds himself standing alone on the deserted platform. He walks slowly through the bazaar and sits on a bench in the park (maidan). It is a cold November night, and it starts raining heavily. As he sits there, getting drenched in the rain, he thinks about all the things he would lose if he ran away — the chance to learn to read and write, the ability to cook Anil’s meals, the warmth of a trusting relationship.

Hari also thinks about how different people react when they are robbed: a greedy man shows fear, a rich man shows anger, and a poor man shows acceptance. But Anil, he believes, would show only sadness — not for losing the money, but for losing the trust he had placed in Hari. This thought troubles Hari deeply.

Hari realises that education is far more valuable than the stolen money. He decides to go back to Anil. He returns to Anil’s room, quietly places the money back under the mattress, and goes to sleep. The next morning, Anil behaves as if nothing has happened. He gives Hari a fifty-rupee note, which is still damp from the previous night’s rain. This tells the reader that Anil knows about the theft — but he chooses not to say anything. Instead, Anil smiles and tells Hari that he will now start paying him regularly and that they will begin writing full sentences from that day. Hari smiles back — this time with a genuine, natural smile — and the story ends on a note of hope, trust, and transformation.

Think about it (NCERT Textbook Questions and Answers)

Read and Find Out (Page 8)

Q1. Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?

Ans: ‘I’ refers to Hari Singh, the narrator of the story. He is a fifteen-year-old boy who is an experienced thief. He changes his name every month to avoid being caught by the police and his previous employers.

Q2. What is he “a fairly successful hand” at?

Ans: He is “a fairly successful hand” at stealing. Despite being only fifteen years old, he is already an experienced thief. He is clean and swift in his work — he robs people without getting caught easily. He considers himself quite skilled at the art of theft.

Q3. What does he get from Anil in return for his work?

Ans: When Hari Singh asked Anil if he could work for him, Anil said that he could not pay him. The agreement was that if Hari would cook for him, Anil would feed him and provide him a place to stay. Later, Anil also taught Hari how to cook properly, how to write his name, and promised to teach him to write whole sentences and add numbers. Apart from this, Hari used to make a small profit of about a rupee a day when he went out to buy the day’s supplies from the market. So in return for his work, Hari received food, shelter, education, and some small daily earnings.

Read and Find Out (Page 10)

Q4. How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?

Ans: The thief thinks that when Anil discovers the theft, his face would show a touch of sadness. According to Hari, this sadness would not be for the loss of money, but for the loss of trust that Anil had placed in him. Hari believed that Anil’s reaction would be different from that of other people — he would not show anger, fear, or acceptance, but only disappointment at being betrayed by someone he had trusted and cared for.

Q5. What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?

Ans: In his short career as a thief, Hari Singh had observed that different people react differently when they discover they have been robbed. According to him:

A greedy man shows fear (because he is afraid of losing more).
A rich man shows anger (because he feels insulted).
A poor man shows acceptance (because he is used to hardship).

However, Hari believed that Anil would show none of these reactions. Instead, he would show sadness — a sadness born not out of losing money but out of losing faith in Hari.

Q6. Does Anil realise that he has been robbed?

Ans: Yes, Anil most likely realised that he had been robbed. The next morning, when he gave Hari a fifty-rupee note, the note was still damp from the previous night’s rain. This suggests that the money had been taken out of the house and exposed to rain before being put back. Anil probably understood what had happened but chose not to say anything about it. Instead of confronting Hari, he calmly told him that he would now start paying him regularly and would begin teaching him to write whole sentences. This showed Anil’s understanding, forgiving nature, and his desire to help Hari reform rather than punish him.

Think about it (Page 13)

Q1. What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time? (What makes him return to Anil?)

Ans: Hari Singh’s reactions to receiving an education change significantly over the course of the story. At first, when Hari learns to write his name, he feels very happy and grateful. He is excited when Anil promises to teach him to write whole sentences and add numbers. He realises that being an educated man will add to his abilities and help him achieve great things in life. He could become a truly “big, clever, and respected man” one day.

However, when he steals the money and leaves Anil’s house, his perspective shifts dramatically. Standing alone on the deserted platform after missing the train, he realises that stealing is just a petty crime that gives only temporary gain, but education is something that can change his entire life. He understands that the knowledge of reading, writing, and arithmetic would bring him respect, dignity, and endless opportunities — far more valuable than six hundred rupees. This realisation is what ultimately makes him return to Anil. Over time, Hari goes from seeing education as a nice bonus to recognising it as the most valuable thing in his life.

Q2. Why does Anil not hand the thief over to the police? Do you think most people would have done so? How does Anil make it possible for Hari Singh to lead an honest life?

Ans: Anil does not hand the thief over to the police because he is a kind, understanding, and compassionate person. He realises that Hari Singh has returned the money on his own, which means that Hari has already recognised his mistake. Anil understands that punishing Hari would destroy the chance of reforming him. Instead, Anil chooses to forgive silently — he does not even mention the theft. He simply gives Hari a damp fifty-rupee note (showing he knows what happened), promises to pay him regular wages, and offers to continue his education. This is Anil’s way of giving Hari a second chance.

Most people would probably not have reacted the way Anil did. Typically, people would feel angry, betrayed, and would either confront the thief, throw him out, or hand him over to the police. Anil’s response is exceptional because he values trust and human potential over material loss.

Anil makes it possible for Hari Singh to lead an honest life by providing him with education, regular income, and a trusting environment. He teaches Hari to read, write, and do basic arithmetic. He promises regular wages so that Hari does not need to steal. Most importantly, he shows Hari that he still believes in him, which inspires Hari to live up to that trust.

Talk about it (NCERT Textbook Questions and Answers)

Q1. Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?

Ans: While people like Anil and Hari Singh are more commonly found in fiction, they do exist in real life as well — though they may be rare. In the real world, there are kind and forgiving people like Anil who believe in giving second chances and who trust others unconditionally. There are also people like Hari Singh — individuals who may have taken the wrong path due to circumstances but are capable of change when they receive kindness, trust, and opportunities. Many social workers, teachers, and reformers in real life have helped transform the lives of young offenders by providing them with education and support. However, such instances are not very common. In today’s world, most people find it difficult to trust someone who has betrayed them. So, while such characters are possible in real life, they are certainly more idealised in fiction.

Q2. Do you think it a significant detail in the story that Anil is a struggling writer? Does this explain his behaviour in any way?

Ans: Yes, it is a very significant detail that Anil is a struggling writer. This detail explains several aspects of his behaviour. As a struggling writer, Anil earns money irregularly — “by fits and starts.” He leads a simple and modest lifestyle. He sometimes has plenty of money, and at other times he has very little. This means that Anil understands the value of money but is not overly attached to it. He is more concerned with knowledge, creativity, and human relationships than with material wealth. His simple lifestyle also explains why he agrees to let Hari stay with him without paying wages — he genuinely cannot afford to pay, but he is generous enough to share what he has. Being a writer also means he is a thoughtful and observant person, which is why he probably noticed the theft but chose to respond with understanding rather than anger. His struggle as a writer has made him empathetic and patient, qualities that ultimately help transform Hari Singh.

Q3. Have you met anyone like Hari Singh? Can you think of and imagine the circumstances that can turn a fifteen-year-old boy into a thief?

Ans: While most of us may not have personally met someone exactly like Hari Singh, the existence of such people in our society is undeniable. Many young children and teenagers are forced into a life of crime due to unfortunate circumstances. Some of the reasons that can turn a fifteen-year-old boy into a thief include:

Poverty and hunger: A child who has no food to eat may be forced to steal to survive.
Lack of family support: Orphaned or abandoned children who have no one to care for them often fall into criminal activities.
Lack of education: Without education, a child has very few options for earning a living and may turn to theft.
Bad company: Influence of criminal gangs or bad companions can lead a young boy astray.
Exploitation: Some children are exploited by adults who force them to steal or beg.

Hari Singh’s story shows that with the right guidance, trust, and education, even a young thief can be reformed and set on the path to an honest life.

Q4. Where is the story set? (What details are you given about the place where the events occur? Are they important in the story?)

Ans: The story appears to be set in a small town somewhere in Uttar Pradesh, near Lucknow. Several details in the story give us clues about the setting. Anil lives in a room above the Jumna Sweet Shop. There is a railway station nearby from where the Lucknow Express departs. The town has bazaars, sweet shops, a wrestling ground (maidan), and a clock tower. The presence of these details suggests a small but busy Indian town. The setting is important in the story because the railway station serves as a crucial turning point — it is at the station that Hari decides not to board the train and return to Anil. The maidan and the clock tower are where Hari sits in the rain, reflecting on his actions. The simple town setting reflects the modest lives of both Anil and Hari Singh.

Additional Short Answer Type Questions

Q1. Why did Hari Singh change his name every month?

Ans: Hari Singh changed his name every month as a strategy to stay ahead of the police and his former employers. Since he was a thief, changing his identity regularly helped him avoid detection. By using a new name, he could start fresh with new targets without any past connections coming back to haunt him. It was a calculated move to protect himself from getting caught.

Q2. How did Hari Singh meet Anil?

Ans: Hari Singh met Anil at a wrestling match. He observed that Anil looked easy-going, simple, and trusting — the kind of person who would be easy to deceive. Hari approached Anil and started a conversation by flattering him. He then asked Anil for work, and after some discussion, Anil agreed to let Hari cook for him in exchange for food and shelter.

Q3. Why did Hari Singh choose Anil as his next target?

Ans: Hari Singh chose Anil as his next target because Anil appeared to be easy-going, kind, and simple — an ideal person to deceive. Hari felt that Anil’s trusting and generous nature would make it easy for him to gain Anil’s confidence and eventually steal from him. Hari was confident that a person like Anil would not be too alert or suspicious.

Q4. What was the first meal Hari cooked for Anil? What happened to it?

Ans: The first meal that Hari Singh cooked for Anil was terrible. The food was so badly cooked that Anil could not eat it. He gave the entire meal to a stray dog instead. Hari had actually lied about knowing how to cook just to get a place to stay with Anil. When Anil was about to dismiss him, Hari gave him his most appealing smile and managed to stay on.

Q5. Why did Hari Singh lie about knowing how to cook?

Ans: Hari Singh lied about knowing how to cook because he knew that Anil would only keep him if he could be of some use. Anil had already said that he could not afford to pay wages. Cooking was the only job available, and Hari wanted to get into Anil’s house to eventually steal from him. So he lied about his cooking skills to gain entry.

Q6. How did Hari Singh earn a rupee a day?

Ans: Hari Singh earned about a rupee a day by making a small profit from the daily grocery shopping. When Anil gave him money to buy the day’s supplies from the bazaar, Hari would buy things at a slightly lower price and keep the difference for himself. Anil was aware of this small cheating but did not seem to mind, as he could not afford to pay Hari regular wages anyway.

Q7. What was Anil’s occupation? How did he earn money?

Ans: Anil was a struggling writer. He earned his living by writing articles for magazines and publishers. However, his income was irregular — he made money “by fits and starts.” Sometimes he would earn a good sum when a piece was published or when he sold a manuscript, and at other times he would have very little. Despite his uncertain income, he was generous and kind-hearted.

Q8. How much money did Hari Singh steal from Anil? Where was it kept?

Ans: Hari Singh stole six hundred rupees from Anil. The money was kept under Anil’s mattress. Anil had earned this amount by selling a book to a publisher. That night, while Anil was sleeping, Hari crawled to the bed, slid his hand under the mattress, and quietly pulled out the notes.

Q9. Why was it difficult for Hari Singh to rob Anil?

Ans: It was difficult for Hari Singh to rob Anil because Anil was the most trusting person he had ever met. Hari had observed that robbing a greedy man was easy because he can afford to be robbed, and a careless man does not even notice he has been robbed. But robbing a trusting and kind person like Anil removed the thrill and excitement from the act. Anil’s genuine kindness and trust created a sense of guilt in Hari rather than the usual satisfaction he felt while stealing.

Q10. Why did Hari Singh not board the Lucknow Express?

Ans: Hari Singh did not board the Lucknow Express because he hesitated at the last moment. When the train arrived, something held him back. He could not bring himself to leave. After the train departed, he found himself standing alone on the deserted platform. He was torn between his old life of stealing and the new life of education and honest living that Anil had offered him. His conscience would not allow him to run away from the only person who had shown him genuine trust and kindness.

Q11. What did Hari Singh do after missing the train?

Ans: After missing the train, Hari Singh walked slowly through the bazaar and eventually sat down on a bench in the maidan (open ground) near the clock tower. It was a cold November night, and it started raining heavily. He sat there getting drenched in the rain, thinking about his life and the choice he had to make. The stolen money in his pocket got wet from the rain. He spent hours reflecting on what he was losing by running away — the chance to learn, to read, to write, and to become a better person.

Q12. What made Hari Singh realise the importance of education?

Ans: As Hari Singh sat alone in the rain after missing the train, he thought deeply about his future. He realised that if he ran away with the stolen money, he would always remain just a thief — a small-time criminal with no respect or dignity. But if he returned to Anil, he could continue learning to read, write, and do arithmetic. Education could make him a “big, clever, and respected man” someday. He understood that the six hundred rupees would be spent quickly, but education would last a lifetime and open doors to far greater opportunities.

Q13. How did Hari Singh return the stolen money?

Ans: After spending hours in the rain, Hari Singh decided to go back to Anil’s room. He quietly entered the room and carefully slipped the money back under Anil’s mattress. He was very nervous while doing this because returning the money undetected was actually more difficult than stealing it. He then went to sleep on his bed on the balcony, hoping that Anil would not find out about the theft.

Q14. How did Hari Singh know that Anil had discovered the theft?

Ans: The next morning, Anil gave Hari a fifty-rupee note as payment. This note was still damp from the previous night’s rain. Since the money had been under the mattress all along (as far as Anil should have known), it should have been dry. The fact that it was damp told Hari that Anil knew the money had been taken out during the rain and then put back. Anil’s knowing smile and his promise to continue teaching Hari further confirmed that he was aware of what had happened.

Q15. Why did Anil not confront Hari about the theft?

Ans: Anil did not confront Hari about the theft because he was a kind, understanding, and forgiving person. He realised that Hari had already recognised his mistake and had returned the money on his own. Anil understood that confronting Hari would humiliate him and possibly push him back towards a life of crime. Instead, Anil chose to show his trust and give Hari another chance. He believed that compassion and patience would be more effective than punishment in transforming Hari’s character.

Q16. Why did Hari Singh not have many friends?

Ans: Hari Singh did not have many friends because he believed that friends were more trouble than help. As a thief who constantly changed his name and identity, having friends would have been risky. Friends might become curious about his activities and could potentially expose him. Additionally, the people he knew were equally poor and could not offer him any help. Maintaining friendships would have been an inconvenience in his line of work.

Q17. Describe Anil’s character as revealed in the story.

Ans: Anil is portrayed as a kind, trusting, generous, and understanding young man. He is about twenty-five years old and lives a simple life as a struggling writer. Despite his irregular income, he is willing to share his food and home with Hari Singh. He is patient — he teaches Hari to cook instead of throwing him out after the terrible first meal. He is observant — he notices Hari’s daily small profits but does not mind. He values education and generously teaches Hari to read and write. Most importantly, he is forgiving — even after discovering the theft, he does not punish or confront Hari. Instead, he gives him a second chance.

Q18. How did Hari’s final smile differ from his earlier smiles?

Ans: Throughout the story, Hari Singh’s earlier smiles were artificial, calculated, and full of flattery. He used his “most appealing smile” as a tool to manipulate people and gain their trust for his own selfish purposes. However, at the end of the story, when Anil shows him kindness and forgiveness, Hari smiles with a genuine, natural, and heartfelt smile. This final smile reflects his inner transformation — it is the smile of a boy who has been touched by trust and kindness, not the smile of a thief trying to deceive someone.

Long Answer Type Questions (100-120 words)

Q1. Describe Hari Singh’s character transformation in “The Thief’s Story.” What factors led to his change of heart?

Ans: At the beginning of the story, Hari Singh is a hardened young thief who views people merely as targets. He approaches Anil with the sole intention of robbing him. He flatters Anil, lies about his cooking skills, and plans to steal from him at the first opportunity. He is cunning, manipulative, and devoid of any moral concerns.

However, his time with Anil gradually begins to change him. Anil’s unconditional kindness, trust, and generosity awaken something in Hari that he had never experienced before. Anil does not just give him food and shelter — he gives him something far more valuable: education and belief in his potential. When Hari learns to write his name, he experiences genuine pride and excitement. He begins to see a future for himself beyond stealing.

The turning point comes when Hari steals the six hundred rupees and goes to the railway station. Standing alone on the deserted platform, he realises that running away with the money would mean giving up everything Anil has offered him — the education, the trust, the warm relationship, and the chance to become a respected person. He understands that education is a lifelong treasure, while stolen money is temporary. This realisation, combined with the guilt of betraying someone who trusted him completely, makes Hari return the money and choose an honest life.

Q2. How does Anil’s response to the theft influence Hari Singh’s transformation? Discuss Anil’s role in reforming Hari.

Ans: Anil’s response to the theft is perhaps the most powerful and transformative element of the story. When most people would have reacted with anger, confrontation, or punishment, Anil chooses a completely different approach. He does not confront Hari about the theft. He does not throw him out or hand him over to the police. Instead, he silently acknowledges what happened (through the damp fifty-rupee note) and continues to trust Hari.

This response is profoundly significant for several reasons. First, it shows Hari that he is valued as a person, not just as a servant. Anil’s forgiveness tells Hari that people can believe in him despite his mistakes. Second, Anil’s promise to pay regular wages and continue teaching removes the practical reasons for stealing — Hari now has both income and education. Third, Anil’s calm and forgiving behaviour creates a sense of moral obligation in Hari. Having been shown such kindness, Hari feels a deep responsibility to live up to Anil’s trust.

Anil plays the role of a mentor and reformer. He demonstrates that kindness, trust, and patience can transform a person more effectively than punishment. By offering Hari education, livelihood, and a trusting environment, Anil provides the three essential ingredients for rehabilitation. His selfless behaviour proves that sometimes the best way to deal with wrongdoing is not through punishment but through compassion and second chances.

Q3. Discuss the role of education in Hari Singh’s decision to return the stolen money.

Ans: Education plays a central and decisive role in Hari Singh’s transformation and his decision to return the stolen money. Throughout the story, we see how the prospect of education gradually changes Hari’s priorities and values.

When Hari first comes to Anil, his only interest is in stealing. But when Anil teaches him to write his name, Hari experiences a new kind of satisfaction — the pride of learning something legitimate. When Anil promises to teach him whole sentences and arithmetic, Hari begins to dream of a different future. He realises that literacy and education could open doors that stealing never could. An educated person can earn respect, find legitimate employment, and live with dignity — things a thief can never achieve.

The critical moment comes at the railway station. As Hari stands alone with the stolen money, he weighs his options. On one side is six hundred rupees — a temporary gain that will be spent quickly and leave him where he started, still an uneducated thief. On the other side is the opportunity to learn — a permanent asset that could make him a “big, clever, and respected man.” Hari chooses education over money because he understands that knowledge is power. The stolen money represents his past — a life of crime, fear, and running. Education represents his future — a life of dignity, respect, and honest achievement. This understanding is what compels him to return the money and go back to Anil.

Q4. “It’s easy to rob a greedy man because he can afford to be robbed; but it’s difficult to rob a careless man — sometimes he doesn’t even notice he’s been robbed, and that takes all the pleasure out of the work.” Discuss the significance of this statement in the story.

Ans: This statement by Hari Singh is highly significant because it reveals his deep understanding of human psychology and also foreshadows his difficulty in robbing Anil. The statement shows that for Hari, stealing is not just about money — it is also about the thrill and satisfaction of outsmarting someone.

A greedy man is easy to rob because his greed makes him predictable and vulnerable. He accumulates wealth and is an obvious target. A rich man, when robbed, shows anger — which gives the thief a sense of power. A poor man shows acceptance — which at least gives the thief acknowledgement. But a careless man who does not even notice he has been robbed takes away the thief’s pleasure because there is no recognition of the thief’s skill.

Anil is worse than all of these categories from a thief’s perspective. He is trusting, not careless. He does not guard his money out of trust, not out of ignorance. This makes robbing him psychologically difficult because the thief knows he is betraying genuine faith, not just taking from someone who does not care. The statement ultimately reveals that Hari’s conscience is more active than he admits. He uses the language of professional assessment, but underneath, he is struggling with the moral dimension of stealing from someone who trusts him completely.

Q5. Discuss the theme of trust in “The Thief’s Story.” How does trust play a central role in the relationship between Anil and Hari Singh?

Ans: Trust is the central and most important theme of “The Thief’s Story.” The entire narrative revolves around the building, breaking, and rebuilding of trust between Anil and Hari Singh.

From the very beginning, Anil demonstrates remarkable trust. He takes in a complete stranger, gives him a place to live, and shares his food and knowledge. Even when he is aware of Hari’s small daily profits from shopping, he does not question it. This unconditional trust creates a bond that becomes the foundation for Hari’s eventual transformation.

When Hari steals the money, he breaks this trust. But what is significant is that the loss of trust troubles Hari more than anything else. He imagines Anil’s face showing sadness — not for the money but for the broken trust. This shows that Anil’s trust has already left a deep impression on Hari’s heart. Unlike fear of punishment, the thought of losing someone’s trust becomes a powerful moral force.

When Hari returns the money, Anil recognises this act as a sign of genuine remorse and chooses to rebuild the trust silently. He does not confront Hari or demand an explanation. Instead, he acts as if nothing happened, thereby preserving Hari’s dignity and giving him the chance to start fresh. The story powerfully demonstrates that trust can be more transformative than punishment. It suggests that when we place our trust in someone, we give them a reason to become worthy of that trust.

Q6. Compare and contrast the characters of Hari Singh and Anil in “The Thief’s Story.”

Ans: Hari Singh and Anil are contrasting characters whose differences highlight the story’s themes of trust, honesty, and transformation.

Hari Singh is a fifteen-year-old boy who has been living as a thief. He is cunning, manipulative, and streetwise. He changes his name every month to evade the police. He approaches people with calculated smiles and flattery. He is initially dishonest and views people as targets to be exploited. However, beneath his tough exterior, Hari has a conscience. He is capable of feeling guilt and recognising the value of kindness and education. By the end of the story, he transforms into someone who values honesty and learning.

Anil, on the other hand, is a twenty-five-year-old struggling writer. He is kind, trusting, generous, and patient. He lives a simple life and does not place excessive value on money. He is willing to share his home, food, and knowledge with a stranger. He is observant enough to notice things (like the daily profit and the theft) but wise enough to know when to overlook them. His forgiving nature and belief in human goodness make him the moral anchor of the story.

While Hari represents the possibility of change and redemption, Anil represents the power of kindness and trust to bring about that change. Together, they demonstrate that positive transformation is possible when someone is given the right environment, opportunities, and compassion.

Q7. “Money can’t make a man as much as education can.” How does “The Thief’s Story” illustrate this idea?

Ans: “The Thief’s Story” beautifully illustrates the idea that education is far more valuable than money in shaping a person’s life and character. Throughout the story, Hari Singh faces a clear choice between money and education, and his final decision powerfully supports this theme.

Hari steals six hundred rupees from Anil — a substantial amount of money. If money alone could make a man, Hari should have been satisfied with his theft and run away. But standing at the railway station with the money in his pocket, Hari realises something profound: the money will run out soon, and he will be back to where he started — an uneducated thief with no future. On the other hand, the education Anil is giving him — the ability to read, write, and do arithmetic — is something that no one can ever take away. It is a permanent asset that will grow and multiply throughout his life.

Hari understands that education can make him a “big, clever, and respected man.” It can give him dignity, legitimate employment, social respect, and the ability to help himself and others. Money gained through theft brings only temporary comfort along with constant fear and shame. Education, on the other hand, brings lasting empowerment. The story clearly shows that money is temporary while education is transformative. Hari’s decision to return the stolen money and continue his education is the strongest proof of this message.

Q8. Narrate the events of the night when Hari Singh stole the money from Anil. What happened from the time he stole the money to the time he returned it?

Ans: The night of the theft is the most dramatic and pivotal part of the story. That evening, Anil had come home with six hundred rupees that he earned from selling a book to a publisher. He counted the money and placed it under his mattress before going to sleep.

Late at night, Hari Singh made his move. He crept quietly to Anil’s bed in the dim moonlight that fell across the room. He carefully slid his hand under the mattress and pulled out the bundle of notes. He counted the money — six hundred rupees in fifties — and then slipped out of the room.

Hari headed straight to the railway station to catch the 10:30 Lucknow Express. When the train arrived, he could hear the sound of its engine and see the carriage doors opening. But at the last moment, something held him back. He could not bring himself to board the train. The train left without him, and he found himself standing alone on the deserted platform.

He then walked slowly through the bazaar and eventually reached the maidan. He sat on a bench near the clock tower. It was a cold November night, and soon it began to rain heavily. Hari sat there getting drenched, thinking about his decision. He thought about the different reactions people have when they are robbed and imagined Anil’s face showing sadness. He thought about all the things he would lose — the cooking, the writing lessons, the warm meals, and most importantly, the chance to become an educated and respected person.

By midnight, sitting under the clock tower, Hari made his decision. He walked back to Anil’s room, nervously slipped the money back under the mattress, and went to sleep on his bed on the balcony. The money was now wet from the rain, and this would become the silent evidence of the night’s events.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1. Who is the narrator of “The Thief’s Story”?

(a) Anil
(b) Hari Singh
(c) Ruskin Bond
(d) A police officer

Ans: (b) Hari Singh

Q2. How old was Hari Singh?

(a) 10 years
(b) 15 years
(c) 20 years
(d) 25 years

Ans: (b) 15 years

Q3. How often did Hari Singh change his name?

(a) Every day
(b) Every week
(c) Every month
(d) Every year

Ans: (c) Every month

Q4. Where did Hari Singh meet Anil?

(a) At a sweet shop
(b) At a wrestling match
(c) At the railway station
(d) At a tea stall

Ans: (b) At a wrestling match

Q5. What was the name of the sweet shop above which Anil lived?

(a) Laddu Sweet Shop
(b) Ganesh Sweet Shop
(c) Ganga Sweet Shop
(d) Jumna Sweet Shop

Ans: (d) Jumna Sweet Shop

Q6. What did Anil do for a living?

(a) He was a wrestler
(b) He wrote articles for magazines
(c) He ran a sweet shop
(d) He was a teacher

Ans: (b) He wrote articles for magazines

Q7. What happened to the first meal Hari Singh cooked for Anil?

(a) Anil ate it happily
(b) Anil stored it for later
(c) Anil gave it to a stray dog
(d) Hari Singh ate it himself

Ans: (c) Anil gave it to a stray dog

Q8. How much money did Hari Singh make daily from grocery shopping?

(a) Fifty paise
(b) One rupee
(c) Five rupees
(d) Ten rupees

Ans: (b) One rupee

Q9. How much money did Hari Singh steal from Anil?

(a) 500 rupees
(b) 600 rupees
(c) 700 rupees
(d) 800 rupees

Ans: (b) 600 rupees

Q10. Where did Anil keep the money?

(a) Inside a cupboard
(b) In a drawer
(c) Under the mattress
(d) In a locker

Ans: (c) Under the mattress

Q11. Which train did Hari Singh plan to catch after stealing the money?

(a) Delhi Mail
(b) Dhanbad Express
(c) Lucknow Express
(d) Shatabdi Express

Ans: (c) Lucknow Express

Q12. According to Hari Singh, how does a greedy man react when robbed?

(a) With anger
(b) With fear
(c) With acceptance
(d) With sadness

Ans: (b) With fear

Q13. How would Anil react to the theft, according to Hari?

(a) With anger
(b) With fear
(c) With acceptance
(d) With sadness

Ans: (d) With sadness

Q14. What did Hari Singh do with the stolen money?

(a) He ran away with it
(b) He spent it
(c) He returned it
(d) He threw it away

Ans: (c) He returned it

Q15. The story is set in the month of:

(a) January
(b) July
(c) November
(d) December

Ans: (c) November

Q16. ‘Anil made money by fits and starts.’ This means:

(a) He earned continuously
(b) He earned irregularly
(c) He suffered from fits
(d) He never earned money

Ans: (b) He earned irregularly

Q17. What does the word “unlined” mean in the context of Anil’s face?

(a) Having many lines
(b) Showing no sign of worry or anxiety
(c) Without underline
(d) In a straight line

Ans: (b) Showing no sign of worry or anxiety

Q18. How old was Anil?

(a) 15 years
(b) 20 years
(c) 25 years
(d) 30 years

Ans: (c) 25 years

Q19. Where did Hari Singh sleep at Anil’s house?

(a) On the bed
(b) On the floor
(c) On the balcony
(d) In the kitchen

Ans: (c) On the balcony

Q20. What is the meaning of “queer” in the phrase “a queer way to earn money”?

(a) Famous
(b) Strange
(c) Illegal
(d) Rare

Ans: (b) Strange

Extract-Based Questions

Extract 1:

“I was still a thief when I met Anil. And though only 15, I was an experienced and fairly successful hand. Anil was watching a wrestling match when I approached him. He was about 25 — a tall, lean fellow — and he looked easy-going, kind, and simple enough for my purpose. I hadn’t had much luck of late and thought I might be able to get into the young man’s confidence.”

(a) Who does ‘I’ refer to in this extract?

Ans: ‘I’ refers to Hari Singh, the narrator of the story. He is a fifteen-year-old experienced thief who is looking for his next target.

(b) Why did the narrator approach Anil?

Ans: The narrator approached Anil because he looked easy-going, kind, and simple — the kind of person who could be easily deceived. Hari had not had much luck recently and thought he could gain Anil’s confidence and then steal from him.

(c) What does “a fairly successful hand” mean?

Ans: “A fairly successful hand” means that Hari was quite skilled and experienced at stealing. Despite being only fifteen years old, he had already become proficient in the art of theft and could rob people without getting caught.

(d) What does the phrase “hadn’t had much luck of late” tell us about Hari?

Ans: The phrase tells us that Hari had not been able to steal successfully in recent times. He was going through a dry spell and was looking for a new victim to exploit. This is why he was eager to approach Anil and win his trust.

Extract 2:

“He made money by fits and starts. He would borrow one week, lend the next. He kept worrying about his income and whether or not the next cheque would arrive. Meanwhile, he filled in time by writing on his publisher’s advances, and taking me out to the bazaar.”

(a) Who is ‘he’ in this extract?

Ans: ‘He’ refers to Anil, the young man who employs Hari Singh and lives above the Jumna Sweet Shop.

(b) What does “by fits and starts” mean?

Ans: “By fits and starts” means irregularly or inconsistently. Anil did not have a steady, regular income. Sometimes he would earn well, and at other times he would have very little money.

(c) What was Anil’s profession?

Ans: Anil was a writer. He wrote articles for magazines and also worked on book manuscripts for publishers. Writing was his primary source of income, though it was not steady or reliable.

(d) What does this extract tell us about Anil’s financial condition?

Ans: This extract tells us that Anil’s financial condition was unstable and uncertain. He earned irregularly — borrowing one week and lending the next. He was always worried about his income and depended on cheques and advances from his publishers. Despite this, he was generous enough to share what he had with Hari Singh.

Extract 3:

“I had the notes at my waist, held them by the string of my pyjamas. I felt his hand searching for the notes. When his hand touched mine, I let go of the notes, and they fell into his lap.”

Wait — that is from a different story. The correct extract follows:

Extract 3:

“It’s easy to rob a greedy man, because he can afford to be robbed; but it’s difficult to rob a careless man — sometimes he doesn’t even notice he’s been robbed, and that takes all the pleasure out of the work.”

(a) Who makes this observation?

Ans: This observation is made by Hari Singh, the narrator and thief in the story.

(b) Why is it easy to rob a greedy man?

Ans: It is easy to rob a greedy man because he can afford to be robbed. A greedy man accumulates wealth and is an obvious target. His greed makes him predictable and vulnerable to theft.

(c) Why is it difficult to rob a careless man?

Ans: It is difficult to rob a careless man because he sometimes doesn’t even notice he has been robbed. For a thief like Hari, the satisfaction comes from knowing that the victim is aware of the theft but unable to catch the thief. When the victim does not notice, it takes away the thrill and pleasure of stealing.

(d) What does this tell us about Hari Singh’s attitude towards theft?

Ans: This tells us that for Hari Singh, theft is not just about money — it is also about the excitement and psychological satisfaction of outsmarting someone. He enjoys the challenge and the recognition (without being caught) that comes with a successful theft. This insight also hints at why robbing Anil — a trusting person — is emotionally difficult for him.

Extract 4:

“I couldn’t cook his meals, run to the bazaar, or learn to write whole sentences any more. I had forgotten all about them in the excitement of the theft. Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees.”

(a) Why could the narrator no longer cook meals or go to the bazaar?

Ans: The narrator could no longer cook Anil’s meals or go to the bazaar because he had stolen the money and was running away. By leaving Anil’s house with the stolen money, he was giving up everything that had become part of his daily life with Anil.

(b) What had the narrator forgotten in the excitement of the theft?

Ans: In the excitement of the theft, the narrator had forgotten about the importance of education — specifically, the opportunity to learn to write whole sentences and do arithmetic, which Anil had been teaching him.

(c) What does the narrator mean by “whole sentences could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees”?

Ans: The narrator means that education is more valuable than stolen money. If he learned to read and write properly, he could earn respect, find good employment, and make far more money through honest means than the six hundred rupees he had stolen. Education would be a lifelong asset.

(d) What does this extract reveal about Hari’s inner conflict?

Ans: This extract reveals that Hari is experiencing a deep inner conflict between his old life as a thief and his new aspirations. Part of him wanted the quick money from the theft, but another part — a growing, conscience-driven part — recognised that education offered something far more valuable: a future of dignity and respect. This conflict ultimately leads him to return the money.

Extract 5:

“When I got up, he was making tea. He gave me a fifty-rupee note. My heart sank. I thought I had been discovered. ‘I made some money yesterday,’ he explained. ‘Now I’ll be able to pay you regularly.’ My spirits rose. But when I took the note, I saw it was still wet from the night’s rain.”

(a) Who is ‘he’ and who is ‘I’ in this extract?

Ans: ‘He’ is Anil, and ‘I’ is Hari Singh, the narrator.

(b) Why did the narrator’s heart sink when he received the fifty-rupee note?

Ans: The narrator’s heart sank because he thought that Anil had discovered the theft. He feared that giving him money might be a way of confronting him or testing him. He was afraid of the consequences.

(c) What is the significance of the note being “still wet from the night’s rain”?

Ans: The wet note is significant because it proves that Anil knew about the theft. The money had been kept under the mattress and should have been dry. The fact that it was damp indicated that the notes had been taken out of the house during the rainy night and then returned. Anil understood what had happened but chose not to mention it.

(d) What does Anil’s behaviour in this extract tell us about his character?

Ans: Anil’s behaviour shows that he is an extremely kind, forgiving, and understanding person. Despite knowing that Hari had stolen his money, he chose not to confront him. Instead, he offered Hari regular payment and promised to continue his education. This shows that Anil valued Hari’s potential for transformation more than the temporary loss of money. He believed in giving second chances.

Value-Based Questions

Q1. What values does Anil’s character teach us about dealing with people who have made mistakes? How can trust and forgiveness transform a person’s life?

Ans: Anil’s character teaches us several important values about how to deal with people who have made mistakes:

Forgiveness: Anil forgives Hari’s theft without even mentioning it. He shows that forgiving someone does not mean you are weak — it means you are wise enough to understand that people can change.
Trust: Anil continues to trust Hari even after the theft. He understands that showing trust can inspire people to become trustworthy.
Compassion: Instead of punishing Hari, Anil offers him regular wages and continues to teach him. This compassionate response is far more effective than punishment in bringing about real change.
Patience: Anil is patient with Hari from the beginning — when the first meal is terrible, when he notices the small daily profits, and even when the money is stolen.
Belief in human potential: Anil believes that Hari can become a better person. This belief gives Hari the motivation to actually change.

The story teaches us that trust and forgiveness can transform a person’s life far more powerfully than anger and punishment. When we give someone a second chance and show that we believe in them, we give them a reason to become better. Hari’s transformation from a thief to someone who values honesty and education is a direct result of Anil’s compassionate approach. This is a lesson that applies not only to individuals but also to society as a whole — rehabilitation through kindness and education is more effective than punishment alone.

Q2. “The Thief’s Story” highlights the importance of education in transforming lives. What values related to education does the story convey? How can education help uplift underprivileged children in our society?

Ans: “The Thief’s Story” conveys several powerful values related to education:

Education is more valuable than money: Hari realises that six hundred stolen rupees will be spent quickly, but the ability to read, write, and do arithmetic will serve him for a lifetime. Education is a permanent investment in oneself.
Education provides dignity and self-respect: Through education, Hari can become a “big, clever, and respected man.” Education gives a person social standing, confidence, and the ability to live with dignity.
Education offers alternatives to crime: For Hari, education represents a way out of his life of crime. It opens doors to legitimate employment and honest living.
Education is empowering: Learning to read and write empowers Hari to take control of his own future rather than depending on theft and deception.

In our society, education can help uplift underprivileged children in many ways. It can break the cycle of poverty by providing children with skills and knowledge to earn honest livelihoods. It can keep children away from criminal activities by giving them constructive goals and aspirations. Educated individuals contribute positively to society and can help their families and communities rise out of poverty. Government initiatives, NGOs, and individuals — like Anil in the story — can all play a role in providing education to those who need it most. The story powerfully reminds us that investing in someone’s education is investing in their entire future.

Q3. What does “The Thief’s Story” teach us about the power of second chances? Relate it to real-life situations where giving someone a second chance has led to positive outcomes.

Ans: “The Thief’s Story” is a powerful narrative about the transformative potential of second chances. When Anil discovers that Hari has stolen his money and then returned it, he does not punish or confront him. Instead, he gives Hari a second chance — a fresh start with regular wages and continued education. This act of grace is what ultimately transforms Hari from a thief into someone who aspires to live honestly.

The story teaches us that everyone makes mistakes, but what matters is whether they are given the opportunity to learn from those mistakes and grow. Punishing someone for their errors may satisfy our sense of justice, but it rarely leads to genuine change. On the other hand, showing compassion and offering a second chance can inspire true transformation.

In real life, we can see similar examples. Many juvenile rehabilitation programmes around the world focus on educating young offenders and providing them with vocational skills rather than simply punishing them. Schools that adopt restorative justice practices — where students who have misbehaved are counselled and given a chance to make amends rather than being expelled — often see much better long-term outcomes. In our personal lives too, when we forgive a friend or family member and give them another chance, we strengthen our relationships and help them become better people. The key message of the story is that compassion, trust, and second chances have the power to bring out the best in people.

Character Sketches

Character Sketch of Hari Singh

Hari Singh is a fifteen-year-old boy who is the narrator and protagonist of the story. Despite his young age, he is already an experienced and fairly successful thief. He is cunning and streetwise — he knows how to use flattery to win people’s confidence, he changes his name every month to avoid detection, and he has a keen understanding of human psychology (knowing how different types of people react when robbed).

However, Hari is not entirely hardened. Beneath his tough exterior lies a boy who is capable of feeling guilt, gratitude, and the desire for self-improvement. His time with Anil awakens these suppressed qualities. When he steals the money and reaches the railway station, his conscience holds him back. He is unable to betray the trust of someone who has been genuinely kind to him.

Hari’s most important quality is his capacity for change. He recognises the value of education and understands that it can offer him a life far better than what stealing ever could. His decision to return the stolen money and go back to Anil shows courage, self-awareness, and a genuine desire to reform. By the end of the story, Hari’s smile has changed from a calculated, manipulative tool to a genuine expression of hope and gratitude. He represents the idea that no one is beyond redemption if given the right opportunity and support.

Character Sketch of Anil

Anil is a twenty-five-year-old struggling writer who represents the best qualities of human nature. He is kind, trusting, generous, patient, and forgiving. He lives a simple life above the Jumna Sweet Shop and earns his living by writing articles for magazines — though his income is irregular.

Anil’s most defining quality is his trust in people. He takes in Hari Singh — a complete stranger — without any suspicion. He shares his home, food, and knowledge with him. Even when he notices that Hari makes a small daily profit from grocery shopping, he does not object. He teaches Hari to cook, to write his name, and promises to teach him full sentences and arithmetic.

What makes Anil truly remarkable is his response to the theft. When he discovers that the money has been stolen and returned, he does not confront Hari or hand him over to the police. Instead, he silently forgives him, offers him regular wages, and continues his education. This response shows extraordinary wisdom, compassion, and belief in human potential. Anil understands that Hari has already recognised his mistake, and that punishment would only push him back towards crime. By giving Hari a second chance, Anil becomes the catalyst for Hari’s transformation from a thief to an honest person.

Anil’s character teaches us that kindness and trust are more powerful than anger and punishment, and that one person’s belief in another can change their entire life.

We hope this comprehensive set of questions and answers for Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 2 — The Thief’s Story by Ruskin Bond has been helpful for your HSLC examination preparation. For more chapter-wise solutions, visit hslcguru.com.