How did Mattie describe the ferry crossing?

• A. The ferry crossing occurred in calm weather with no fog.
• B. The crossing involved a light fog and a simple rope line.
• C. The two boys from the store operated the ferry; there was a heavy fog waist-high to a man; the ferry line was a heavy rope tied to trees on each bank; the ferry swung across the river in a looping downstream curve and was pulled by the current.
• D. The crossing used a railroad ferry.

Answer: (C)

This question tests your ability to recall Mattie’s detailed description of the ferry crossing, including weather, who runs it, and how the setup works. Mattie describes thick fog—waist-high to a man—before noting that two boys from the store operate the ferry. She explains a heavy rope tied to trees on each bank serves as the line, and the ferry swings across the river in a looping downstream arc, pulled by the current. Those specific details—heavy fog, the two boys running the crossing, the heavy rope anchored to trees, and the ferry’s downstream looping motion—are what make this description match the scene most accurately. The other options don’t fit because they simplify or change these elements: calm weather or no fog, a light fog with a simple rope, or a railroad ferry aren’t what Mattie describes.