(1) 'Muttered' means spoke in a low or indistinct voice, often in complaint. In the story, Velu 'muttered to himself' when looking at the cloudless sky. (2) 'Forlorn' means sad, lonely, and abandoned. The story describes 'The barren land looked forlorn' meaning it appeared sad and neglected. (3) 'At a loss' means confused or uncertain about what to do. In the story, both Velu and the weather office staff were 'at a loss' about the lack of rain. (4) 'Sparkled' in this context means showed joy or excitement. The story describes the old woman whose 'eyes sparkled when she smiled.'