(i) The story is called ‘The Adventure’. Compare it with the adventure described in ‘We’re Not Afraid to Die...’

(ii) Why do you think Professor Gaitonde decided never to preside over meetings again?

Professor Gaitonde was experiencing a different version of the Battle of Panipat. According to this version, the Marathas emerged victorious in the Battle and started extending influence over the entire country. His mind was actually witnessing a different version of the historical reality. Interestingly, he was also witnessing an event that was not conforming to the conventions. The event was a lecture session on the outcomes of the Battle of Panipat. In this lecture session, Prof. Gaitonde observed that the chair of the President was vacant. This again was contrary to the conventions. Prof. Gaitonde rushed to occupy the chair and started explaining the need for a President in a lecture session like this. The public got angry on this point and started throwing objects at him. He had a bad experience. This led him to decide not to preside over meetings again.