16.5.2 Test (CST): Reading for Information: Essays
A man cannot always expect to think of a natty thing to say
under such circumstances, and so it is pure egotistic
ostentation to put it off.
-Mark Twain
Which of these best paraphrases the sentence above?
OA. Situations that raise expectations are difficult ones, so it's best to
avoid them.
B. Trying to say the cleverest thing when dying is self-centered and
showy, so don't do it.
C. Great men end up being pompous under difficult circumstances,
and that's what makes them great.
OD. It's tough to be clever in this situation, so it's foolish to try to think
of your last words at the last minute.