Question

Select the correct answer from each drop-down menu.

In this excerpt from The Life of Charlotte Bronté by
Elizabeth Gaskell, what is the meaning of the underlined words?
Even an inhabitant of the neighbouring county of Lancaster is struck by the
peculiar force of character which the Yorkshiremen display. This
makes them interesting as a race; while, at the same time, as individuals, the remarkable degree of self-sufficiency they possess gives them an
air of independence rather apt to repel a stranger. I use this expression, "self-sufficiency" in the largest sense. Conscious of the strong sagacity.
and the dogged power of will which seem almost the birthright of the natives of the West Riding, each man relies upon himself, and seeks no
help at the hands of his neighbour. From rarely requiring the assistance of others, he comes to doubt the power of bestowing it from the general
success of his efforts, he grows to depend upon them, and to over-esteem his own energy and power.
The word sagacity means
v
The word bestowing means
v

Answer 1

"Sagacity" refers to the ability of a person to make sound judgement. It is similar to wisdom. In this case, it refers to the self-reliance of Yorkshire men.

"To bestow" is to present something as a gift. It is often used as a synonym of "to confer" (an honor, an award). The word here refers to reluctance of Yorkshire men to offer assistance to others.