English Language & Literature — CBSE Class 10 board question

Valli displays remarkable boldness for an eight-year-old — she plans her bus journey independently, saves sixty paise secretly, handles adult passengers confidently, and firmly refuses help from the conductor. This shows maturity beyond her age.

However, when she sees the same playful cow lying dead by the roadside, she is overcome with sadness and can no longer enjoy the journey. The memory "haunted her, dampening her enthusiasm."

This contrast reveals that Valli is mature enough to act independently but still a child emotionally — her innocence makes death's reality deeply unsettling, showing she is caught between childhood and growing up.

Source: 'Madam Rides the Bus', Sections III and IV

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• The examiner wants contrast — boldness vs. emotional response — so both sides must be addressed.
• Quote or closely paraphrase the text: "haunted her, dampening her enthusiasm" is the key phrase.
• The conclusion should link both points to the idea of in-between maturity — she is bold but not yet emotionally equipped to process death. This is the thematic insight examiners reward.
• Avoid over-explaining; keep it within ~80 words for 3 marks.