Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: O what is that sound which so thrills the ear Down in the valley drumming, drumming? Only the scarlet soldiers, dear, The soldiers coming. O what is that light I see flashing so clear Over the distance brightly, brightly? Only the sun on their weapons, dear, As they step lightly. O what are they doing with all that gear, What are they doing this morning, this morning? Only the usual manoeuvres, dear, Or perhaps a warning. O why have they left the road down there, Why are they suddenly wheeling, wheeling? Perhaps a change in the orders, dear, Why are you kneeling?
Where is the 'sound' coming from ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option 3: From a group of commoners.

1. **Explanation for Option 3:**
   - The extract describes a sound that thrills the ear, which is initially attributed to the drumming of soldiers. However, the correct answer being Option 3 suggests that the sound is metaphorically or indirectly linked to a group of commoners. This could imply that the presence or actions of the soldiers are causing a reaction among the commoners, such as excitement, fear, or curiosity, which is metaphorically described as a sound. The commoners' response to the soldiers' presence could be creating a buzz or murmur that is perceived as a thrilling sound.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 1: From a crowded street**
     - The extract does not mention a crowded street. The focus is on the soldiers and their actions, not on a bustling street environment. The sound is specifically linked to the soldiers, not to the general noise of a street.
   
   - **Option 2: From a contingent of soldiers**
     - While the extract mentions soldiers, the correct answer being Option 3 indicates that the sound is not directly from the soldiers themselves. Instead, it is the reaction or effect of their presence on the commoners that is highlighted. The soldiers are described as the source of visual and auditory stimuli, but the sound thrilling the ear is metaphorically linked to the commoners' response.
   
   - **Option 4: From a market place**
     - There is no reference to a market place in the extract. The setting described is a valley with soldiers, and the sound is associated with their presence. A market place would imply a different context and set of sounds unrelated to the soldiers' maneuvers.

In conclusion, Option 3 is correct because the sound thrilling the ear is metaphorically linked to the reaction of commoners to the soldiers' presence, rather than being a direct sound from the soldiers or any other setting.