Question

in paragraph 23, the word magnate means —
a a person of great influence
b a rich person
c a pauper
d a squire
it was already nine oclock when herberts conversation with his mother ended, and he resolved to defer his call upon squire walsingham till the next morning. about nine oclock in the forenoon our young hero rang the bell of the village magnate, and with but little delay was ushered into his presence.
squire walsingham was a tall, portly man of fifty, sleek and evidently on excellent terms with himself. indeed, he was but five years older than his nephew, ebenezer graham, and looked the younger of the two, despite the relationship. if he had been a united states senator he could not have been more dignified in his deportment, or esteemed himself of greater consequence. he was a selfish man, but he was free from the mean traits that characterized his nephew.
“you are the carr boy,” said the squire, pompously, looking over his spectacles at herbert, as he entered the door.
“my name is herbert carr,” said herbert, shortly. “you have known me all my life.”
“certainly,” said the squire, a little ruffled at the failure of his grand manner to impose upon his young visitor. “did i not call you the carr boy?”

Explanation:

In paragraph 23, "village magnate" refers to Squire Walsingham, who earlier is described as having "great local influence" (from "the local influence of Squire Walsingham and his nephew was so great"). This context indicates "magnate" means a person of great influence.

Answer:

A. a person of great influence