Read the excerpt from "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge." Excepting the group of four at the center of the bridge, not a man moved. The company faced the bridge, staring stonily, motionless. The sentinels, facing the banks of the stream, might have been statues to adorn the bridge. The captain stood with folded arms, silent, observing the work of his subordinates, but making no sign. Death is a dignitary who when he comes announced is to be received with formal manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him. In the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of deference. Which is the most reasonable prediction?
Answer
A
The four men will remain standing on the bridge.
B
The sentinels will not be able to remain motionless.
C
The crowd is waiting for a death to take place.
D
The captain will help his subordinates with their work.
Explanation
The passage describes soldiers standing silently and motionlessly while a group of four works at the center of the bridge. It explains that their stillness is a formal sign of respect because “Death” is about to arrive, so the most reasonable prediction is that they are waiting for someone to die. Choice A matches this; the passage does not suggest the captain will join the work or that the sentinels will move.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.