Comprehension:
Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Emma could not feel a doubt of having given Harriet's fancy a proper direction and raised the gratitude of her young vanity to a very good purpose, for she found her decidedly more sensible than before of Mr. Elton's being a remarkably handsome man, with the most agreeable manners; and as she had no hesitation in following up the assurance of his admiration, by agreeable hints, she was soon pretty confident of creating as much liking on Harriet's side, as there could be any occasion for. She was quite convinced of Mr. Elton's being in the fairest way of falling in love, if not in love already. She had no scruple with regard to him. He talked of Harriet, and praised her so warmly, that she could not suppose anything wanting which a little time would not add. His perception of the striking improvement of Harriet's manner, since her introduction at Hartfield, was not one of the least agreeable proofs of his growing attachment.
‘You have given Miss Smith all that she required,’ said he; ‘you have made her graceful and easy. She was a beautiful creature when she came to you, but, in my opinion, the attractions you have added are infinitely superior to what she received from nature.’
‘I am glad you think I have been useful to her; but Harriet only wanted to draw out, and receiving a few, very few hints. She had all the natural grace of sweetness of temper and artlessness in herself. I have done very little.’
‘If it were admissible to contradict a lady,’ said the gallant Mr. Elton -- ‘I have perhaps given her a little more decision of character, have taught her to think on points which had not fallen in her way before.’
What does Emma notice about Harriet after her guidance?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Harriet was more aware of Mr. Elton’s good qualities.
Emma "found her decidedly more sensible than before of Mr. Elton's being a remarkably handsome man, with the most agreeable manners". Here sensible of means aware of: Harriet now noticed Mr. Elton's good looks and pleasant manners.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: Harriet had become less graceful. — Incorrect. Contradicted: Mr. Elton says Emma has "made her graceful and easy".
Option 3: Harriet disliked social interactions. — Incorrect. Not mentioned: nothing is said about her disliking company.
Option 4: Harriet had grown indifferent. — Incorrect. Contradicted: Emma was confident of "creating as much liking on Harriet's side" as was needed; Harriet was growing fond of Mr. Elton, not indifferent.