Question

2The opera was Verdi’s “The Masked Ball,” and Marian had the role of Ulrica, the gypsy fortuneteller. Though her character only appears in the first act, her telling predictions are crucial to the plot. In the grand entry, I overheard two women debating Marian’s ability to perform. “I know she is a contralto, but some of those soprano notes are just too high,” said one. “Maybe she could have done it ten or twenty years ago, but the woman is nearing sixty!” retorted another. I knew better.

6When lights came up after the performance, everything was a blur of velvet and pearls as the applause echoed throughout the hall. During our exit, we passed by the women who had been questioning Marian’s abilities before the performance. “She was simply amazing,” stated one. “She’s still got it after all these years!” exclaimed the other. The power of Marian’s astonishing voice had captured their hearts as well as mine.

Which statement BEST explains the difference between Florence's and the other women's opinions of Marian?
A) Florence believes Marian's performance will be brilliant, and the other women agree.
B) Florence believes Marian is a great singer, and the other women think she is quite ordinary.
C) Florence thinks that Marian has been mistreated, and the other women see nothing wrong with the D.A.R.'s viewpoint.
D) Florence thinks Marian should have had more time on stage, and the other women think that she had an adequate role.

Answer 1

“I know she is a contralto, but some of those soprano notes are just too high,” said one. “Maybe she could have done it ten or twenty years ago, but the woman is nearing sixty!” retorted another."

The women doubted Marion's ability

"I knew better."
Assuming Florence is the narrator, Florence knew that Marion was a great singer