Day 8-2021年中考英语考前抢分练之阅读理解专练（苏州专用）

Day 8 A The evening arrived; the boys took their places. The master, in his cook's uniform, stood at the table; his poor helpers were behind him; the gruel(稀粥) was served out; and after they spoke to God to give thanks, there was little time left to eat. The gruel disappeared in no time; the boys whispered to each other, and encouraged Oliver to ask for more. Oliver was very hungry and decided to take a risk. He rose from the table; and went to the master, plate and spoon in hand, said: "Please, sir. I want some more." ① The master was a fat, healthy man, but his face became very pale. He looked at the small boy in great surprise for some seconds, and nearly fell but for the support to the table. The helpers were frozen with wonder; the boys with fear. "What!" said the master at last, in a weak voice. "Please, sir," replied Oliver, "I want some more." The master hit Oliver's head with the ladle(长勺) and screamed for Mr. Bumble. ② Some people were sitting in talking abou