Premise:
"Chithirai Vishu (Hindu New Year) is a more religious affair than the Chinese, with worship and prayers."
Hypothesis: The Hindu new year is more devout in celebration than the Chinese new year..

yes

Premise:
"But many people much wiser than I am have thought that at a much earlier age than mine."
Hypothesis: Many people wiser than me have thought that later than me.

no

Premise:
"Rydal Water, the smallest of the lakes in the entire Lake District, sits beside it; thousands of rushes line its banks."
Hypothesis: There are no lakes at the Lake District, the name of the area is a joke.
no