Question

What important element of Benjamin Franklin's character does this passage from his autobiography reveal?

There was a salt-marsh that bounded part of the mill-pond, on the edge of which, at high water, we used to stand to fish for minnows. By much trampling, we had made it a mere quagmire. My proposal was to build a wharf there fit for us to stand upon, and I showed my comrades a large heap of stones, which were intended for a new house near the marsh, and which would very well suit our purpose.


his dishonesty

his ingenuity

his shyness

his sentimentality

Answer 1

The passage from Benjamin Franklin's autobiography reveals **his ingenuity**. It highlights his ability to come up with a practical solution (building a wharf) to improve a situation (the muddy marsh) and demonstrates his resourcefulness in wanting to use available materials (the heap of stones) for a constructive purpose.