Use the passage to answer the question.

Question

Why might the author have included the stage directions “After a pause” in Barrington’s last line of dialogue?

(1 point)
Responses

The stage directions establish dramatic tension; the other characters are nervous about his presence.
The stage directions establish dramatic tension; the other characters are nervous about his presence.

The stage directions establish seriousness; Barrington is concerned about his family.
The stage directions establish seriousness; Barrington is concerned about his family.

The stage directions bring a sense of relief; the other characters are happy that he is not asking them questions.
The stage directions bring a sense of relief; the other characters are happy that he is not asking them questions.

The stage directions reveal confusion; the other characters don’t know what he’s about to say.

Answer 1

The most appropriate response is:

The stage directions establish dramatic tension; the other characters are nervous about his presence.

Including "After a pause" suggests that Barrington's words carry weight and the other characters are likely anticipating what he will say, which contributes to the dramatic tension in the scene.