Question

excerpt from \the wife\ by washington irving
adapted for educational purposes
in this story from 1818, irving puts a spin on the traditional relationship between a man and a wife. when leslie loses his fortune, he is devastated and fears both his wifes reaction and what the future holds. yet rather than fall apart at the news of their misfortune, his wife mary shows strength, resilience, and a positive attitude. she could not be happier about the change to a more simple, authentic lifestyle. it is her fortitude that preserves and enhances their relationship in times of trouble.
my close friend leslie had married a
\oh, but my friend! to think what a blow i am to give to all her future prospects,—how i am to strike her very soul to the earth, by telling her that her husband is a beggar!\
what do the words \strike her very soul to the earth\ suggest?
leslie believes the bad news
about their financial situation will
cause mary physical pain.
mary will not survive the shock of
learning that leslie can no
longer financially support her.
mary will abandon their marriage

Explanation:

The phrase "strike her very soul to the earth" is a metaphor. It implies a deep emotional impact rather than physical pain. Mary's survival isn't in question as she shows strength. And there's no indication she'll abandon the marriage. Leslie fears the news about their financial situation (him being a "beggar") will deeply affect her emotionally.

Answer:

Leslie believes the bad news about their financial situation will cause Mary emotional pain (as the metaphor "strike her very soul to the earth" implies emotional impact, not physical pain. There's no basis for Mary not surviving or abandoning marriage from the text).