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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 1: "Afterward".

Multiple Choice Questions

1. On page 95, Mary mentions the "fun of the frisson." What is a frisson?
(a) A teasing remark.
(b) A frightening story.
(c) The feeling of "butterflies" in one's stomach.
(d) A sensation of chills or prickling down one's back.

2. Why does the narrator say that Ned and Mary are "two romantic Americans" (83)?
(a) Because they tell Alida a far-fetched story about their previous home.
(b) Because neither one has any common sense.
(c) Because they are not being practical about their search for a house.
(d) Because they are clearly deeply in love.

3. What is the name of Mary and Ned's house?
(a) Merton.
(b) Boyne.
(c) Pangbourne.
(d) Lyng.

4. Why is Mary unsure what Ned has or has not already told her about Beb Elwell?
(a) Because ever since they moved into the house, her memory is getting weaker.
(b) Because she does not pay much attention when he talks about work.
(c) Because the Bob Elwell story is very similar to another incident in their past.
(d) Because Ned has a habit of lying about what he has or has not told her.

5. What explanation does Ned give Mary at the time of the mysterious visit in October?
(a) It was Peters, the man working on their stable drains.
(b) It was the boyfriend of Trimmle, the parlor maid.
(c) It was a tourist who had heard stories about their ghost.
(d) He refuses to talk about the incident.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Ned speeds off to talk with the mysterious visitor on that day in October, why does it take Mary so long to follow?

2. Who is the author of "Afterward"?

3. For the past week, what has Mary been assuming is the cause for Ned's need to be alone and his odd mood?

4. According to Alida, what is unusual about the ghost at Ned and Mary's new house?

5. In the opening of the story, what is Mary waiting for?

(see the answer key)

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