Question

which example from \a visit of charity\ speeds up the pacing of the story and makes the reader feel as if the action is happening quickly?
a. she stopped for a moment beside one of the prickly dark shrubs with which the city had beautified the home, and then proceeded slowly toward the building, which was of whitewashed brick and reflected the winter sunlight like a block of ice.
b. marian jumped up and moved toward the door. for the second time, the claw almost touched her hair, but it was not quick enough. the little girl put her cap on.
c. as she walked vaguely up the steps she shifted the small pot from hand to hand; then she had to set it down and remove her mittens before she could open the heavy door.
d. one old woman was pulling the door open in short, gradual jerks, and when she saw the nurse a strange smile forced her old face dangerously awry.

Explanation:

• Option A: The description of her stopping and proceeding slowly indicates a slow pace.
• Option B: Words like "jumped up", "moved toward the door" show quick actions, which speed up the pacing.
• Option C: Shifting the pot, setting it down, removing mittens are actions that imply a slower, more deliberate pace.
• Option D: Pulling the door open in short, gradual jerks suggests a slow movement.

Answer:

B. Marian jumped up and moved toward the door. For the second time, the claw almost touched her hair, but it was not quick enough. The little girl put her cap on.