Final answer:
Without context or the source text, it is not possible to accurately describe Mr. Putnam's reaction to Giles' claim.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question is about a character's reaction to a claim made by another character. In literature, character reactions are important for understanding the dynamics of the plot and the relationships between characters.
The question seems to reference a specific piece of literature, although the source text is not provided.
Without the context of which work it pertains to or the details of Giles' claim, it is not possible to accurately provide an answer.
This could likely be a reference to a character from the play The Crucible by Arthur Miller, where Mr. Putnam is a character, and Giles Corey makes several claims throughout the play. Normally, Mr. Putnam's reactions are guided by his self-interest and can be hostile if a claim opposes his views.