Jim collapsed in a state of despondency upon the sofa. The impending celebration of the maternal anniversary, known as Mother's Day, was fast approaching, and he found himself devoid of any gift to bestow upon her. "What avenue is available to me for the procurement of a present when my financial resources are non-existent?" he pondered with a sense of urgency.
In a bid to alleviate his melancholy, Jim retrieved the daily journal of current events that was casually dispersed across the sofa. His attention was arrested by a prominent proclamation on the initial page. A nearby establishment for retail purposes was the progenitor of a competition. "Articulate the unique qualities that render your mother distinguished and stand a chance to acquire an uninhibited foray into our marketplace for her," the proclamation declared.
"This presents a serendipitous opportunity!" Jim exclaimed inwardly. With alacrity, he proceeded to his chamber, clasping the journal in his grasp. From his study desk, he selected a writing utensil and an unmarked sheet of paper, and commenced to inscribe his thoughts.
"Her maternal excellence surpasses that of all other mothers in the terrestrial sphere. She is perpetually in the act of preparing a repast for my scholastic sojourn, and never does she overlook the provision of a sweetmeat. She indulges my desire for tales by reading to me in the twilight hours, and with unwavering diligence, she ensures the sub-lethal inspection of my slumbering quarters for any lurking nocturnal visitants. Furthermore, she bestows the most affectionate embrace, yet with a considerate discretion when in the company of my comrades, who might ridicule such a display of familial affection."
Jim was well-pleased with his composition. He transcribed it with meticulous care and sought an envelope and the necessary postal insignia from his paternal figure. With haste, he made his way to the receptacle for outgoing correspondence, his entry in hand, "Mother will revel in the unrestrained exploration of the marketplace," he mused.
Jim dutifully monitored the mailbox for the arrival of his accolade. Time elapsed—a succession of days, then weeks. The eve of Mother's Day arrived, and still, there was no communication regarding the outcome of the contest.
"What am I to do at this juncture?" he questioned himself. A gift remained elusive, as did the prospect of a shopping extravaganza, and his financial status remained unchanged. He was compelled to devise an alternative. With his eyes tightly shut, his toes curled in concentration, and his mind racing, Jim exerted such intense effort in his contemplation that it induced a sensation of discomfort in his auditory organs.
注意:(1)所续短文的词数应为150左右;(2)续写部分分为两段,每段开头语已为你写好。
Suddenly he had an idea
……
The next morning Jim handed his present to his mom.
……