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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Poirot likes which one of Nick's lunch companions?
(a) Jim.
(b) Challenger.
(c) Maggie.
(d) Seton.

2. What word is best used to describe Poirot's speculations at this point?
(a) Strong.
(b) Nonexistent.
(c) Melodramatic.
(d) Sketchy.

3. Who was Freddie supposedly staying with during the time of the attempted murder?
(a) Mother.
(b) Lazarus.
(c) Friends.
(d) Husband.

4. Where are the guests taken by their hostess?
(a) Drawing room.
(b) Library.
(c) Parlor.
(d) Garden.

5. Who is Hastings' choice for the prime suspect?
(a) Freddie.
(b) Challenger.
(c) Vyse.
(d) Ellen.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the first name of retired detective Poirot?

2. What is the girl's unusual nickname?

3. What is the name of the man interested in marrying Nick?

4. How long has it been since the uncle died?

5. Where will Nick be sent to ensure her safety?

Short Essay Questions

1. Briefly describe Nick's family history.

2. What questions does Poirot pose to Hastings the next morning?

3. Discuss the fireworks display and setting.

4. What caused Poirot to make a new deduction about Nick's secret? What telltale thing did Nick say to tip off Poirot?

5. Discuss Nick Buckley, the woman Poirot meets in the beginning of the story.

6. What does Poirot say when he approaches Freddie? What is Freddie's reply?

7. What is the discrepancy between the theories of the police and Poirot?

8. How does Poirot begin to separate the suspects? What is Poirot's biggest obstacle at this point?

9. What is Poirot's theory on the attempt on Nick's life? What causes Poirot to come up with the theory? What is Nick's response?

10. What is Poirot's reaction to Freddie's story?

(see the answer keys)

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