19) *The captain stood with folded arms, silent, observing the work of
his subordinates, but making no sign. Death is a dignitary who
when he comes announced is to be received with formal
manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him. In
the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of
deference.
What is the meaning of the word dignitary as it is used in this sentence?
A) a person who is ill
B) a friend or acquaintance
C)
a beast of no importance
D)
someone of high rank and influence

D). someone of high rank and influence.

Explanation:

The word 'dignitary' stands for 'an important or influential person, or one of high rank or position.' In the given excerpt, the word 'dignitary' has been employed as a metaphor for 'death' and signifies its 'high rank' given to it by the military men. They treat it with uttermost silence and respect which is reflected through the captain's motionless state with 'folded arms.' Thus, option D is the correct answer.

ok if it wasn't the hans one it was probably c or he thought the mountain was collapsing on them.