Class 10 English - HARYANA
Supplementary: A Triumph of Surgery
A Triumph of Surgery by James Herriot is the first chapter of the Class 10 English Supplementary Reader (Footprints Without Feet) prescribed by the Haryana Board (BSEH). The story revolves around Tricki, a small, pampered dog who falls seriously ill due to overfeeding by his wealthy owner, Mrs. Pumphrey. Dr. Herriot, a veterinary surgeon, cures Tricki not through medicine, but by strictly controlling his diet and giving him plenty of physical exercise. This chapter emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle, discipline in pet care, and highlights how excessive affection can sometimes lead to harmful consequences.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Tricki's Condition
Tricki was a grossly overweight pet dog whose overindulgence by his mistress Mrs. Pumphrey led to lethargy and severe illness.
Mrs. Pumphrey's Over-pampering
Driven by excessive love and wealth, Mrs. Pumphrey fed Tricki rich foods like malt, cod-liver oil, and bowls of Horlicks, making him sick.
Dr. Herriot's Practical Treatment
The vet avoided medicines and surgery, instead placing Tricki on a strict water-only diet and making him run with other dogs for natural exercise.
Transformation and Recovery
Within a fortnight, Tricki transformed from a weak, wheezing, listless lump of flesh into a hard-muscled, agile animal.
The Triumph of Surgery
The title is ironic; the 'triumph' refers to the successful recovery of the dog through sensible care and control rather than any actual surgical procedure.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Haryana Board (BSEH) Class 10 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 3 to 5 marks. Questions usually include short-answer type questions based on Tricki's treatment, character sketches of Mrs. Pumphrey or Dr. Herriot, and extract-based MCQs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the story titled 'A Triumph of Surgery' when no surgery was performed?
It is ironic because Dr. Herriot cured Tricki without any operation or medicine, simply by altering his diet and exercise routine.
Why was Dr. Herriot tempted to keep Tricki as a permanent guest?
Because Mrs. Pumphrey sent fresh eggs, wine, and brandy for Tricki, which Herriot and his partners enjoyed consuming.
What was the real disease that Tricki suffered from?
Tricki was not suffering from any actual physical disease; he was simply ill because of overeating and lack of exercise.
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