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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. When Mary is waiting in the library at the beginning of the story, where is Ned?
(a) Finishing his lunch.
(b) Taking a walk.
(c) Working in his office.
(d) In town on an errand.

2. What does Ned say, on page 83, must be true for him to believe a house is old?
(a) It must be "thoroughly uncomfortable."
(b) It must be "a registered home."
(c) It must be "bought out of an exhibition."
(d) It must be "practical."

3. What does Ned's motive seem to be when he first brings up the subject of whether the house has a ghost?
(a) He is joking about how old the house is.
(b) He is trying to frighten Mary.
(c) He thinks that living in a "haunted" house will add to his reputation as a writer.
(d) He is looking for an excuse to back out of buying the house.

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

5. Which character opens the story on page 83 by saying "Oh, there is one, of course, but you'll never know it"?
(a) Alida Stair.
(b) Mary Boyne.
(c) Trimmle.
(d) Ned Boyne.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Mary discards her first two ideas about what is bothering Ned, she comes to a conclusion that upsets her. What is it?

2. Why does Mary believe that people should not talk about seeing ghosts?

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

4. When Ned begins to read the newspaper in the library in section "II," he tries to sound casual as he asks Mary a question. What is the question?

5. When Mary finally catches up with Ned on that October day, what is he doing?

(see the answer key)

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