Question

which phrase from the proposal is an example of hyperbole?
a. i again subtract fifty thousand babies, for those women who miscarry, or whose children die by accident or disease within the year.
b. some persons of a desponding spirit are in great concern about that vast number of poor people, who are aged, diseased, or maimed... it is very well known, that they are every day dying... as fast as can be reasonably expected.
c. from which number i subtract thirty thousand couple, who are able to maintain their own children, (although i apprehend there cannot be so many, under the present distresses of the kingdom).
d. mothers instead of being able to work for their honest livelihood, are forced to employ all their time in strolling to beg sustenance for their helpless infants...

Explanation:

Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally. In option C, the speaker doubts there can be as many as thirty - thousand couples who can maintain their own children under present distresses, exaggerating the number for emphasis.

Answer:

C. [F]rom which number I subtract thirty thousand couple, who are able to maintain their own children, (although I apprehend there cannot be so many, under the present distresses of the kingdom).