Is it correct to say that "living in cities were beneficial for the immigrants" or "living in cities was beneficial for the immigrants"?

How does twain’s use of understatement serve his purpose

Which statement expresses a theme that is found in both "escape" and "to live"? the search for self–awareness is often a difficult one. life's distractions can make it difficult to know yourself. a person often sees herself differently than others see her. being a part of two cultures can make it hard to know yourself.

How does the author foreshadow trouble in the prison? support your answer with explicit textual evidence.