Question

what is o. henrys message in the following passage in section 19 of \the gift of the magi\? 19- it was a platinum fob chain simple and chaste modest in design, properly proclaiming its value by substance alone and not by meretricious showy, cheap ornamentation--as all good things should do.

value should be placed more in quality than in flashy appearance.

ornaments are cheap but chains are valued.

it is better to buy a dull gift than a flashy one.

Explanation:

The passage describes the platinum fob chain as having value from its substance (quality) rather than showy ornamentation. The first option matches this idea: it says value should be in quality over flashy looks. The second option misinterprets, as it's not about ornaments vs chains generally. The third option is incorrect, as the passage isn't about dull vs flashy gifts, but about inherent quality vs showiness.

Answer:

A. Value should be placed more in quality than in flashy appearance.