What does the author mean by the term “penetration” as used in line (3)?

Genius to engage those who are of a first order mind
Power to reason with the assistance of leaders of the day
Ability to enter or pass through objects
Power to read minds
Ability to assess and figure out difficult tasks

What may we infer about the author as it relates to the assessment of Washington’s mind? A. . B. . C. . D. .

He believed he had the ability to properly assess the abilities of Washington’s mind and could appropriately compare it to those he could recognize as having a mind of the very first order
He was informed from sufficient sources as to make a relative comparison to those with first order minds
A mind of the very first order was indeed a rarity and that only he and a very few others, certainly not Washington, possessed such a mind
Washington must have had a good mind to be selected for the positions he was assigned but not a good enough mind as to get any better positions; such as a mind of greater order would
He knew enough of the top minds of his day and could relate them to Washington

What may be inferred about Washington’s judgment based on the passage?

He ignored input from the greatest minds of the day when deciding
He required the assistance of others and then quickly decided
He rushed to judgment before considering the consequences
He was quick to decide and held to his decision
He was slow and methodical, but committed

Why does the author write the first two lines (1–2) before writing about Washington?

To suggest that he was able to observe Washington in various surroundings
To qualify himself as one who is knowledge- able enough to fully present the subject
As simply an introduction to establish his topic
As simply an introduction to establish his topic
To prepare the reader for the limitations he found in Washington

Which of the following best describes the treatment of Washington in this passage?

Presented both the positives and the flat sides of Washington
Reflected primarily on the negative sides of Washington
Presented only those aspects of Washington that are deemed positive
Reflected upon the personality of Washington as opposed to his accomplishments
Presented only enough positive attributes to suggest his leadership was questionable