Prior to tthe following scene, Agnes Grey, the protagonist and first-person
narrator of Anne Bronte's classic novel, describes the recent fall in her family's
fortunes. Her father, eager to increase his income, had invested heavily in the
cargo of a merchant ship, but the subsequent shipwreck left the family
penniless. - Ed.
1. Through all our troubles, I never but once heard my mother complain
of our want of money. As summer was coming on she observed to
Mary and me, "What a desirable thing it would be for your papa to
spend a few weeks at a watering-place¹. I am convinced the sea-air
and the change of scene would be of incalculable service to him. But
then, you see, there's no money," she added, with a sigh. We both
wished exceedingly that the thing might be done, and lamented
greatly that it could not. "Well, well!" said she, "it's no use complaining.
Possibly something might be done to further the project after all.
Mary, you are a beautiful drawer. What do you say to doing a few
more pictures in your best style, and getting them framed, with the
water-coloured drawings you have already done, and trying to dispose
of them to some liberal picture-dealer, who has the sense to discern
their merits?"
2. "Mamma, I should be delighted if you think they could be sold; and for
anything worth while."
3. "It's worth while trying, however, my dear: do you procure the
drawings, and I'll endeavour to find a purchaser."
4. "I wish I could do something," said I.
What is one universal human experience that is most clearly addressed in this
passage?
A. The search for knowledge
B. The need for connection
C. The betrayal of friendship
O D. The overcoming of adversity