Question

in the following excerpt from \the terrible old man\ by h. p. lovecraft, which type of conflict is most evident?
waiting seemed very long to mr. czanek as he fidgeted restlessly in the covered motor - car by the terrible old mans back gate in ship street. he was more than ordinarily tender - hearted, and he did not like the hideous screams he had heard in the ancient house just after the hour appointed for the deed. had he not told his colleagues to be as gentle as possible with the pathetic old sea - captain? very nervously he watched that narrow oaken gate in the high and ivy - clad stone wall. frequently he consulted his watch, and wondered at the delay.
character vs. self
character vs. society
character vs. supernatural
character vs. technology

Explanation:

Mr. Czanek is experiencing internal conflict. He is tender - hearted and doesn't like the screams he heard. He is worried about the deed (presumably something his colleagues are doing to the old man) and is nervous about the delay. This shows his internal struggle (Character vs. self) as he grapples with his emotions and the situation. There is no indication of conflict with society (no societal norms or groups opposing him in a direct sense), no supernatural elements (like ghosts, etc.) shown in this excerpt to oppose him, and no conflict with technology (the motor - car is just a means of transport, not something opposing him).

Answer:

Character vs. self