The answer is A also known as the Tasmanian tiger
As we do not know which words are in bold, we cannot fully answer this question. However, we can still try to look at the meaning of phrases, dependent clauses and independent clauses.
Phrases are groups of words that do not form a complete sentence. Phrases usually lack an essential part of a sentence, such as a verb. On the other hand, clauses have both subjects and verbs. Nevertheless, clauses can be further divided into dependent and independent. Dependent clauses are those that do not express a complete thought, nor can they stand on their own. On the other hand, independent clauses are those that express a complete thought and can stand on their own.
The english distress call mayday is derived from a similar word from France.
The correct answer is the last one. Kilpatrick's article shares how White House staff feels about Nixon's resignation.
In the article, numerous aides and officials are quoted. Each gives his thoughts and/or opinions on Nixon's resignation. Many are sorry to see him go. Therefore the second option -- that the staff is unaffected -- is not correct.
The article does not say much about who will become president after Nixon. Furthermore, the staff itself is not changing; only Nixon is leaving. Therefore, the final answer is the correct one.
