Read the passage from Alexander's Bridge. Then answer the
questions.
from Alexander's Bridge
by Willa Cather
1 When the servant admitted him, Mrs. Alexander was still
standing in the hallway She heard him give his name, and
came forward holding out her hand.
2 "Is it you, indeed,Professor Wilson? I was afraid that you
might get here before I did. I was detained at a concert, and
Bartley telephoned that he would be late. Thomas will show
you your room. Had you rather have your tea brought to you
there, or will you have it down here with me, while we wait for
Bartley?
3 Wison was pleased to find that he had been the cause of
her rapid walk, and with her he was even more vastly pleased
than before. He followed her through the drawing-room into
the library, where the wide back windows looked out upon the
garden and the sunset and a fine stretch of silver-colored
river. A harp-shaped elm stood stripped against the pale.
colored evening sky, with ragged last year's birds'nests in its
forks, and through the bare branches the evening star
quivered in the misty air. The long brown room breathed the
peace of a rich and amply guarded quiet.Tea was brought in
immediately and placed in front of the wood fire. Mrs.
Asexander sat down in a high-backed chair and began to pour
it, while Wison sank into a low seat opposite her and took his
Part A
How does the author of the passage develop the idea that one
person may begin to quickly develop fondness for another?
through Mrs. Alexander's courtesy to Wilson
through Wilson's appreciation of Mrs. Alexander
through Wilson's information about Bartley's
childhood
through Mrs. Alexander's admission that she is
confused about Bartley's past
Part B
Which evidence from the passage supports the answer to Part
A?
"...after showing gracious concern about his
tea." (paragraph 4)
- this quick, frank glance brought about an
understanding..." (paragraph 9)
- Professor Wison,would seem that he grew up
among the strangest people " (paragraph 11)
he dropped his chin on the back of his long hand
and looked at her admiringly..." (paragraph 14)