NCERT Class 10 English Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader: Chapter 3 — The Midnight Visitor
This chapter from NCERT's Class 10 English, 'Foot Prints Without Feet', introduces 'The Midnight Visitor'. It focuses on Ausable, a secret agent who doesn't fit the typical spy mold. He's described as fat with a persistent American accent, unlike the mysterious figures author Fowler expected. Fowler, a writer seeking adventure, is initially disappointed by Ausable's mundane life and a simple phone call. However, his first real thrill comes when a man named Max, holding a pistol, appears in Ausable's room. Max, a rival agent, demands an important report concerning new missiles, which is expected to reach Ausable that night. The chapter sets up a suspenseful encounter, highlighting the contrast between Ausable's appearance and his potential for drama, and exploring the unexpected nature of espionage. This chapter helps students understand characterization and suspense in storytelling.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — The Midnight Visitor |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 385 |
Learning outcomes
- Identify the characteristics of a secret agent.
- Analyze the contrast between appearance and reality.
- Understand the elements of suspense and plot development.
- Recognize the role of dialogue in revealing character and advancing the story.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| espionage | the practice of spying or of using spies, typically by governments to obtain political and military information. |
| passably | adequately; well enough. |
| wheezily | in a way that involves breathing with a whistling or rattling sound in the chest. |
| prosaic | commonplace and ordinary, without imagination. |
| disillusioned | disappointed in someone or something that one discovers to be less good than one had believed. |
| presently | soon. |
| authentic | of undisputed origin; genuine. |
| slender | gracefully thin. |
| crafty | clever at achieving one's aims by indirect or deceitful methods. |
| countenance | a person's face or facial expression. |
| menacing | suggesting the presence of a hazard or danger. |
| murmured | said something in a low, indistinct voice. |
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Practice questions
- How did Ausable differ from other secret agents? Answer: Ausable was fat and spoke with an American accent, unlike the typical descriptions of secret agents as mysterious and romantic figures.
- Who was Fowler and what was his initial reaction to Ausable? Answer: Fowler was a writer who wished to meet Ausable, expecting a romantic adventure. He felt let down and disillusioned upon meeting Ausable, finding him to be a 'sloppy fat man'.
- What was the 'authentic thrill' Fowler experienced? Answer: Fowler's authentic thrill came when he saw a man, Max, standing in Ausable's room with a pistol.
- Who was Max and what did he want? Answer: Max was another secret agent who had entered Ausable's room. He wanted the important report concerning new missiles that was expected to be delivered to Ausable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of 'The Midnight Visitor'?
The main theme revolves around deception, suspense, and the unexpected nature of secret agents, contrasting appearance with reality.
Who are the main characters in 'The Midnight Visitor'?
The main characters are Ausable, a secret agent, and Max, another agent who confronts him. Fowler, a writer, is also a significant character.
Why was Fowler disappointed with Ausable initially?
Fowler was disappointed because Ausable did not fit his romanticized image of a secret agent; he was fat and his evening was mundane.
What was Max looking for in Ausable's room?
Max was looking for a very important report concerning new missiles that was expected to be delivered to Ausable.
What does the chapter suggest about Ausable's true abilities?
Despite his appearance, the chapter hints that Ausable is clever and capable of handling dangerous situations, possibly outwitting Max.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 10 English — Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader — Chapter 3 — The Midnight Visitor. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.