Will Derry get back to his old seclusion or will Mr Lamb’s brief association effect a change in the kind of life he will lead in the future?

The question is about the future of a character named Derry from the story "On the Face of It" by Susan Hill. Derry is a young boy with a burnt face who isolates himself from society due to his physical appearance. He meets Mr. Lamb, an elderly man with a tin leg who doesn't let his disability affect his outlook on life.

1. Understanding Derry's Past: Derry has been living in seclusion due to his physical appearance. He is self-conscious and has a negative outlook on life. He believes that people judge him for his burnt face and thus, prefers to stay alone.

2. Mr. Lamb's Influence: Mr. Lamb is a positive and accepting individual who doesn't let his physical disability (a tin leg) affect his life. He befriends Derry and shows him that physical appearances don't define a person's worth or capabilities. He encourages Derry to embrace his differences and not let them hinder his life.

3. Predicting Derry's Future: The story doesn't explicitly state what Derry will do. However, it is suggested that Mr. Lamb's influence might help Derry change his perspective towards life. Derry, who was once afraid of society's judgment, might learn to accept himself and lead a more open and less secluded life.

4. Conclusion: While it's not certain if Derry will completely stop living in seclusion, it's likely that Mr. Lamb's brief association will effect a change in Derry. He might start leading a life less dominated by his physical appearance and more by his capabilities and self-acceptance.