peaks in the distance.

Explain the comparison suggested in the last
two lines. The mountain summits, with their
everlasting snows, resemble in the distance the
minarets, or lofty tapering towers, attached to
Mohammedan mosques.

Which is preferable, "minarets of snow", or
"snow-covered peaks"? The former, because it is
a more unusual expression and because of what
it suggests.

Stanza II

Why is the camp-fire represented as a rude
humorist? It causes faces and forms that are
haggard and care-worn to appear fresh and
healthy, thus playing a grim jest upon those
gathered round it.

Explain the significance of "fierce" in the
last line. In the mad rush for gold, all the
worst elements of man's nature are brought to
the surface--disregard for the rights of
others, contempt for law and order, and even
carelessness with regard to human life.

Consider the fitness of the words "rude",
"painted", "race", as used here.

Stanza III

What indicates the value that the owner places
upon this book? The words "treasure" and
"hoarded" suggest that it is one of his most
highly prized possessions.

What suggests that this is not the first time
the story has been read in camp? The word
"anew".

How does the poet indicate the absorbing
interest that the story has for these men? He
says the fascination is so great as to draw the
attention of these rough miners even from their
card-playing. Explain "listless leisure".

Stanza IV

Explain "the firelight fell". The fire
gradually died down, because, absorbed in their
interest in the story, the miners forgot to put
on fresh fuel.

Why is Dickens called the "Master"? A master is
one who attains the highest degree of skill in
some art. Dickens was master of the art of
story-telling, a master of vivid narration, a
master of pathos and humour.

Stanzas V and VI

Is there anything in these stanzas which might
throw light upon the identity of the reader? He
is probably the poet himself. His familiarity
with the fancies of the reader seem to indicate
this. Besides, the reader is kept very mu