I visited St. Louis lately, and on my way West, after changing cars at Terre Haute, Indiana, a mild, benevolent-looking gentleman of about forty-five, or maybe fifty, came in at one of the way-stations and sat down beside me. We talked together pleasantly on various subjects for an hour, perhaps, and I found him exceedingly intelligent and entertaining.

Question

How does the author’s use of the multiple-meaning word mild affect the reader’s understanding of the gentleman?

(1 point)
Responses

The gentleman has a gentle and kind demeanor.
The gentleman has a gentle and kind demeanor.

The gentleman seems extreme and severe.
The gentleman seems extreme and severe.

The gentleman is noble and proper.
The gentleman is noble and proper.

The gentleman has a bland personality.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

The gentleman has a gentle and kind demeanor.

The use of the word "mild" suggests that the gentleman is not harsh or aggressive, but rather has a soft and kind personality, which contributes to the reader's understanding of him as a pleasant and agreeable character.