A soldier, for example, enters a shop, buys some trifling object, and stays there leaning against the counter; he listens to the conversations, probably does not understand them, and yet gives the impression of understanding; he himself does not say a word, just stares blankly at the speaker, then back at the listeners, all the while keeping his hand on the hilt of the long knife in his belt. This is revolting, one loses the desire to talk, the customers start leaving the shop, and only when it is quite empty does the soldier also leave. Thus wherever the soldiers appear, our lively people grow silent. That's what happened this time, too. As on all solemn occasions the colonel stood upright, holding in front of him two poles of bamboo in his outstretched hands. This is an ancient custom implying more or less that he supports the law, and the law supports him.
Answer choices for the above question
A. The soldiers act as spies who bring back incriminating information to the capital.
B. The presence of soldiers in the small town intimidates its inhabitants.
C. The soldiers exercise violence on the citizens of the town.
D. The soldiers enjoy a calm, welcoming relationship with the villagers.
1 answer
The inference best supported by the passage is:
B. The presence of soldiers in the small town intimidates its inhabitants.
The description of the soldier's behavior, the reaction of the customers in the shop, and the overall atmosphere created by the soldiers suggest that their presence leads to fear and silence among the townspeople, indicating intimidation.
