Directions: For the given question, select one entry for the blank to best complete the text.

With the __________ of a true believer, he had assured the kids that there was no such thing in the world as a black cat.

Option (1): True belief can only mean conviction or certitude. So, the answer is (1). Option (2): A true believer need not be dogmatic. But he will surely have certitude. Option (3): Credence is to put faith on somebody else's statement or an explanation, which cannot be derived from the text. Option (4): 'Softness' doesn't make any sense in context. Option (5): 'Assurance' might fit in coherently, but not 'reassurance'.