At her age one could never tell what could one not tell about whom why
(reference- The Potrait of a Lady
Answers
the grandmother was a very old lady. she was going to aboard for higher studies .those five years meant a terribly lot for an old woman like her.the narrator had a genuine doubt whether she would live for those five years to receive him again
Reference: "When I decided to go abroad for further studies . I was sure my grand mother would be upset . I would be away for five years and at her age one could never tell." Pg 5 para 3
Explanation:
The relationship between the narrator and his grandmother was very intimate. When the narrator decided to move abroad for higher education he was sure that his grandmother will be sad as he would be away for 5 years. No one could tell how a person of that age will be able to control emotions. But she could she didn't show any emotions or talk. She bids him a farewell with continuous prayers . Also he was not sure if he can see his grandmother after 5 years or not