In the passage where Sancho expresses gratitude toward Sterne's writing, how does his tone come across?

• A. Playful and amused
• B. Suspicious and critical
• C. Impolite and annoyed
• D. Respectful and humble

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is how tone signals attitude toward a writer and their work. When Sancho expresses gratitude toward Sterne’s writing, the tone is best read as respectful and humble because gratitude in a literary context usually conveys deference to the author and appreciation for the impact of the writing, rather than mockery, suspicion, or offense.

In eighteenth-century English literature, readers often respond to a gifted writer with civility and humility, recognizing the value of the author's craft. If Sancho’s remarks acknowledge the wisdom or pleasure found in Sterne’s prose and place himself in a position of thanks, that strong sense of respect and modesty fits the moment and the era’s norms for engaging with authors.

The other tonal options would clash with this posture: playful and amused would imply teasing or light joking at Sterne’s expense; suspicious and critical would suggest doubt or challenge; impolite and annoyed would break the courtesy expected in expressing gratitude. The respectful and humble reading best captures the intended attitude toward Sterne’s writing.