Question

Which of these inferences about the soldiers is best supported by the passage below (paragraph 5)? A soldier, for example, enters a shop, buys some trifling object, and stays there leaning against the counter; he listens to the conversations, probably does not understand them, and yet gives the impression of understanding; he himself does not say a word, just stares blankly at the speaker, then back at the listeners, all the while keeping his hand on the hilt of the long knife in his belt. This is revolting, one loses the desire to talk, the customers start leaving the shop, and only when it is quite empty does the soldier also leave. Thus wherever the soldiers appear, our lively people grow silent. That's what happened this time, too. As on all solemn occasions the colonel stood upright, holding in front of him two poles of bamboo in his outstretched hands. This is an ancient custom implying more or less that he supports the law, and the law supports him. Answer choices for the above question A. The soldiers act as spies who bring back incriminating information to the capital. B. The presence of soldiers in the small town intimidates its inhabitants. C. The soldiers exercise violence on the citizens of the town. D. The soldiers enjoy a calm, welcoming relationship with the villagers.

Answer 1

Answer: B. The presence of soldiers in the small town intimidates its inhabitants.

Explanation:

The actions of the soldiers in the town made the townspeople less lively whenever they were around and these actions were deliberately done for that very reason.

The actions of the soldiers in the store where they would look at the customers whilst holding their weapons were deliberate attempts at intimidation and they worked as the customers would leave, less lively than when they came in.

The presence of the soldiers in the town therefore intimidated the inhabitants.