Step 1: Understanding the reference.
This question is based on the short story "An Astrologer’s Day" by R.K. Narayan, where Benjy’s age and educational background are briefly mentioned. He left school when he was still young, before adulthood.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
The age of fourteen is considered the correct answer as it marks early adolescence — a common age at which a character like Benjy would leave school to face life’s challenges or begin work, reflecting the story’s social and economic background.
Step 3: Contextual conclusion.
Benjy’s early departure from school emphasizes the limited educational opportunities of the time and his need to mature early.