Question

otis & hamiltons correspondence questions
instructions: complete the following multiple-choice questions.

1a. based on the text, what is the best meaning of the word ascertain?
a. to make sure of
b. to act quickly based on newly learned facts
c. to take the time to fully consider an option
d. to receive information from a spy

1b. what other lines from the text help you understand the answer to 1a?
a. “the question now is...”
b. “can any terms be obtained from mr burr?”
c. “we have certain advice from south carolina and georgia”
d. “the gentlemen of the opposition are of the opinion that this will be the case”

Explanation:

1a

To determine the meaning of "ascertain", we analyze each option:

• Option a: "To make sure of" aligns with the idea of finding out or verifying something, which is consistent with the typical meaning of "ascertain".
• Option b: Acting quickly based on new facts is more about reacting, not ascertaining.
• Option c: Considering an option is about deliberation, not ascertaining.
• Option d: Receiving info from a spy is specific and not the general meaning of "ascertain".

We need a line that relates to verifying or finding out (to support the meaning of "ascertain" in 1a):

• Option a: "The question now is..." is just stating a question, not about ascertaining.
• Option b: "Can any terms be obtained from Mr Burr?" involves trying to find out (ascertain) if terms can be obtained, which connects to the meaning of "ascertain".
• Option c: "We have certain advice..." is about receiving advice, not ascertaining.
• Option d: "The gentlemen of the opposition..." is about an opinion, not ascertaining.

Answer:

a. To make sure of

1b