Which word is most closely synonymous with the word 'patronage' as it appears in the following statement? '...that I am sure he will need no charitable aid or condescending patronage.'

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Auspices.' 'Auspices' is closely related to 'patronage' in the sense of support or sponsorship. In the context of the excerpt, it conveys the idea that the working man will not require condescending support or sponsorship but will actively participate and contribute to the Institute. The other choices are incorrect: 'Aberration' means a deviation from the norm, 'Acerbic' means sharp or bitter in tone, and 'Adulation' means excessive admiration or praise, none of which align with the meaning of 'patronage' in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: According to the extract, the term 'working man' refers to individuals who are actively employed and earn wages in a traditional sense. Charles Dickens emphasizes the importance of the working man having a share in the management of institutions designed for their benefit. This aligns with choice C, making it the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect as the extract does not mention anything about being well versed in the workings of the soul. Choice B is incorrect because the extract does not suggest that working men are not involved in social activities due to the physical demands of their work. Choice D is also incorrect as the extract does not focus on the historical transitions of the working man.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: 'Enterprise' here refers to a company or organization, particularly one that requires effort and initiative. In the passage, the term 'enterprise' is used in the context of establishing a Mechanic's Institution, emphasizing the involvement and support of the working man in such an organization. Choice B, 'Courage,' is incorrect as the term refers more to determination and initiative in creating and supporting the institution rather than bravery. Choice C, 'Game,' and choice D, 'Cause,' are also incorrect as they do not align with the context provided in the passage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The salutation 'My Good Friends' used by Charles Dickens in his speech to the working men and their families in Birmingham shows that he is addressing them as an entertainer, aiming to connect with them before delivering a serious message. This friendly language establishes a personal connection with the audience, setting a tone of camaraderie and warmth. The salutation is not meant to bridge a gap between an employer and employees (Choice A), create irony (Choice C), or grab attention like a politician (Choice D). Instead, it is a genuine and warm address to engage the audience before conveying his earnest hope about the Institute's principles.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The speaker's second desire for his time in front of the audience is for the working man to have a say in the management of the institution designed for his benefit. This is evident from the passage where the speaker emphasizes the importance of the working man having a share in the management of an institution designed for his benefit. Choice A is incorrect because although reading a Christmas story was mentioned as the first desire, it was not the second desire. Choice C is incorrect as the desire mentioned is not about standing in the audience's presence but rather about the working man having a say in the institution. Choice D is incorrect as it does not align with the speaker's second desire as mentioned in the passage.