Choose two of the following questions and compose a thoughtful answer. Each answer should be a paragraph in length. (Remember to use an MLA heading, write in ink, double space, and proofread!)
1. In chapter four the two cousins enter Mr. Grimshaw's room and discover him burning papers with his "fireplace full of black ash. He started violently as they entered, slammed shut the lid of a small dispatch box, and flung himself back into bed."
His behavior reminds us of Miss Slighcarp's when her letters are touched. This all seems really odd. What do you think is going on?
2. In chapter four the girls stray a long way from the house quite late in the afternoon. They are rescued by Simon, depicted as a bit of a "vagabond," dressed in animal skins and with a cave for a house. Who is Simon and how does he help the girls in chapter four?
3. At the end of chapter four Miss Slighcarp and Mr. Grimshaw are seen pouring over stacks of papers in the house's library. What do you think is going on? Do you think they have a plan?
4. Chapter five is the longest chapter in the book. It chronicles the events of the first day that the girls are alone with Miss Slighcarp. Miss Slighcarp's behavior is outrageous. For example, she wears Bonnie's mother's best dress, she fires all the servants, she imprisons Bonnie, and she makes Sylvia mend linens. What do you think is Miss Slighcarp's plan?
5. Toward the end of chapter five Miss Slighcarp seems to find the papers she has been searching for, namely a will, the document that details how Sir Willoughby's estate is to be distributed in the event of his death.
"What a good thing Sir Willoughby was careless enough to leave his will at home instead of keeping it with Mr. Gripe. It has saved us a deal of trouble."
In this passage Mr. Grimshaw and Miss Slighcarp are discussing the details of Sir Willoughby's will. What do we learn about the heirs to the Willoughby fortune?
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