Craft and StructureVery hardTwo authors on the interpretation of a letter
Craft and Structure practice question
Text 1
The general's letter of 1815 shows him confident of victory on the eve of the battle, argues historian Ned Kale, quoting its closing line: 'We shall do very well tomorrow.'
Text 2
The letter was to the general's wife, who was ill, and the same phrase closes every letter he wrote her that year, including three sent after defeats. It is a formula of reassurance, not a forecast. What he thought of tomorrow is in the order he issued that night, which moved the baggage to the rear.
Which choice best describes how the author of Text 2 responds to Kale's reading?
- A. By arguing that the quoted phrase is a habitual comfort to the general's wife, and that his real expectations are shown by his actions.Correct
- B. By denying that the general wrote the letter.
- C. By agreeing that the general expected victory.
- D. By claiming the letter was written after the battle.
Answer: A. By arguing that the quoted phrase is a habitual comfort to the general's wife, and that his real expectations are shown by his actions.
The same line after defeats; the baggage sent to the rear.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. By denying that the general wrote the letter.
- Not disputed.
- C. By agreeing that the general expected victory.
- The reverse.
- D. By claiming the letter was written after the battle.
- 'On the eve' is accepted.
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