Critical Reading For Exams / Short Reading Comprehension 25


The next morning a message came from Lady Berrick, to say that she would see her nephew after breakfast. Left  by myself, I walked toward the pier, and met with a man who asked me to hire his boat. He had lines and bait, at  my service. Most unfortunately, as the event proved, I decided on occupying an hour or two by sea fishing. 

The wind shifted while we were out, and before we could get back to the harbor, the tide had turned against us. 

It was six o’clock when I arrived at the hotel. A little open carriage was waiting at the door. I found Romayne im-  patiently expecting me, and no signs of dinner on the table. He informed me that he had accepted an invitation, in  which I was included, and promised to explain everything in the carriage. 

Our driver took the road that led toward the High Town. I subordinated my curiosity to my sense of politeness,  and asked for news of his aunt’s health. 
 



What selection best depicts the reason for the narrator’s fishing episode as being \"unfortunate?”

No catch and having to pay extra for the additional hours.
There was obviously no catch due to the weather.
He missed his appointment with Romayne causing a late dinner.
The wind turned against them.
The tide turned against them.

In context, the word \"subordinated” line (8) most nearly means

Left.
Made certain to ignore.
Lowered the level of importance.
Forgot about.
Ensured it was stifled.