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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. How does Maturin almost make a serious faux pas?
(a) By asking to examine the eye socket of a one-eyed sailor.
(b) By almost missing the Captain's table.
(c) By forgetting the Captain's name.
(d) By telling the first mate what Maturin thinks of the mate's mother.

2. How was the news disseminated?
(a) Via a letter from Diana Villiers.
(b) From Maturin's wife.
(c) From one of the sailors who deserted the Leopard.
(d) Through Admiral Nelson's aide.

3. What do Aubrey and the Leopard crew volunteer to do?
(a) Serve on the boarding crew.
(b) Serve the forward gun battery.
(c) Man the rigging.
(d) Guard the diplomat and his retinue.

4. What are in the letters to Sophie?
(a) Questions about news at home.
(b) Information about Aubrey's upcoming assignment.
(c) Questions about his new son.
(d) Aubrey's thoughts and reports of many current events.

5. What does Aubrey do on the voyage?
(a) Practises his sword skills.
(b) Helps Maturin with his collection.
(c) Takes turn doing watches on the bridge.
(d) Writes many lengthy letters home.

Short Answer Questions

1. What has been the outcome of those encounters?

2. What war do they learn has erupted?

3. Who is the first man to die?

4. How are Aubrey's men received?

5. Why does Maturin leave the cricket match?

Short Essay Questions

1. Do you think it would be difficult for the men to stay optimistic if after spotting a ship but they do not see you?

2. What happens at the cricket match when Maturin joins the game and what tone does it set?

3. Why do you think the sailors on board La Flèche do not take the war with the United States very seriously?

4. What surprises Aubrey once he is quartered at Asclepia?

5. What do you think it means that Raikes' body was gnawed upon and do you think that is acceptable?

6. Why do you think Aubrey argues so strenuously to retain his lieutenants and midshipmen?

7. What tone for the novel is set and how is it set by the references to "Abraham"?

8. What do you think is a possible cause of La Flèche catching fire and exploding?

9. How would you respond to being in open sea in an eighteen-foot boat with twelve other people?

10. Why do the boats become separated and what are the advantages and disadvantages of that happening?

(see the answer keys)

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