PSAT Reading Question 440: Answer and Explanation

Question: 440

The implied meaning of Jefferson's message in Passage 2 is that at the time of the letter, the American defense against the invading British force was

• A. incapable of resistance.
• B. likely to collapse if there were British reinforcements.
• C. likely to defeat the insignificant force at Portsmouth.
• D. capable of meeting and defeating the British on an open battlefield.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) The meaning of his second letter concerns "a fleet of the enemy's ships" that will easily have access to America's shores "[s]hould any more be added to them." Hence, Jefferson worries that American defenses will fail if more British ships arrive, as in choice (B). Choice (C) says the opposite. Choice (D) is wrongly concerned with the "open battlefield." Although choice (A) is tempting, it is too extreme. Certainly, Jefferson believes American defenses can resist. However, he also believes that they will be quickly overcome if the situation gets any worse.