Read the excerpt from "Tools of the Spymaster."General Gates' troops held their ground. Benedict Arnold, one of Gates' generals, argued for a counterattack that would smash the British force. Gates, outraged that Arnold would challenge his order, took away his command. But the rash Arnold saw a chance to strike a crucial blow. He galloped through the crossfire of both armies, inspiring his men. A bullet struck his leg, but he rode on, leading the final assault that shattered the British fortifications. If he had died of his wounds that day, Arnold would be remembered as one of the great heroes of the Revolutionary War.
Answer
A
describe to the reader a brave act by a historical figure.
B
illustrate to the reader the dangers of questioning orders.
C
persuade the reader that challenging orders is heroic.
D
show the reader how violent the Revolutionary War was.
Explanation
The excerpt recounts Arnold’s actions during the battle: he rode through crossfire, continued after being wounded, and led an assault that broke the British fortifications. These details describe a brave act by a historical figure. Although he defied Gates, the passage focuses on Arnold’s courage rather than warning readers about questioning orders or arguing that defiance is always heroic.
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