English S.R. [Que - 2M]

Behrman’s dream is to paint a masterpiece before he dies. He finally achieves this by painting a realistic leaf on the wall during a stormy night to save Johnsy's life. She believes it’s a real leaf and gains the will to live. Though Behrman dies due to pneumonia after painting it, his dream comes true, and his painting becomes his masterpiece.

The author breaks down in tears after the fire because he feels he has lost everything—his house, his belongings, and especially his pet cat, who went missing during the chaos. He feels lonely, helpless, and overwhelmed by the disaster, and the emotional burden finally causes him to cry.

Lushkoff agrees to chop wood for Sergei because he is ashamed after being caught lying. Sergei finds out that Lushkoff is not a student as he claimed but a beggar. However, instead of scolding him, Sergei offers him work in a kind manner. Touched by Sergei’s kindness and feeling guilty about his lies, Lushkoff decides to work honestly and chop wood.