How did the father react when the papers were torn?

Correct answer: He punished Kezia

When the papers were found torn, Kezia’s father punished her. He was angry because the sheets contained his important speech, and he considered the destruction serious even though Kezia had acted innocently. His reaction increased her fear and strengthened her belief that he was harsh and unapproachable. He did not reward her with sweets, take her out, or remain silent. The episode illustrates how an adult may respond to the consequence of a child’s action without fully understanding the child’s intention. Later, the father’s kindness when Kezia is frightened at night gives the incident a more balanced meaning: his discipline is real, but it exists alongside concern and love. Therefore, option A is correct.