Read this sentence from the passage: "Not a few old-fashioned people, and young ones likewise, in the ardor of their hopes, still cherished an enduring faith in this old prophecy." (paragraph 8)

What does the word ardor suggest about the inhabitants described in this sentence?

a
The young and old are divided in their belief about the truth of the prophecy.
b
They are enthusiastic in their beliefs about the truth of the prophecy.
c
The young and old have personal experience with the prophecy.
d
They are confused about the meaning of the prophecy.

Why does the author introduce the inhabitants of the valley before describing the Great Stone Face?

a
Explaining where the inhabitants of the valley live shows why they are influenced by the Great Stone Face.
b
Describing the wide variety of people who live in the valley shows many different kinds of people can relate to the Great Stone Face.
c
Explaining the work performed by the inhabitants of the valley highlights the role the Great Stone Face plays in their lives.
d
Describing how the people who live in the valley talk about the Great Stone Face shows how they feel about it.

In paragraph 8, the author uses personification to describe the prophecy. How does the author's language add to the meaning of the story?

a
By describing how the prophecy was told, it implies that the prophecy is difficult to understand.
b
By emphasizing that the prophecy was murmured and whispered, it highlights the secret nature of the prophecy.
c
By personifying the streams and wind, it shows that the prophecy connects people and nature.
d
By referencing the origins of the prophecy, it shows that it is not reliable or likely to be true.