Across the threshold stepped a tall figure under a wide, featherless hat, and wrapped in a cloak which is loosened as he entered.
Directions for the question:
The following sentence tests correctness and effectiveness of expression. Part of the sentence or the entire sentence is underlined; beneath the sentence are five ways of phrasing the underlined material. Choice (A) repeats the original phrasing; the other four choices are different. If you think the original phrasing produces a better sentence than any of the alternatives, select choice (A). If not, select one of the other choices.
In making your selection, follow the requirements of standard written English; that is, pay attention to grammar, choice of words, sentence construction, and punctuation. Your selection should result in the most effective sentence – clear and precise, without awkwardness or ambiguity.
Example:
If it were a British ship the resistance to the duty would be offered by the land merchants rather than by the sea traders; for the merchants did not desire that the cost of the merchandise to themselves and their customers should be doubled without some equivalent advantage.
(A) If it were a British ship the resistance to the duty would be offered by the land merchants
(B) If it had a British ship the resistance to the duty would be offered by the land merchants
(C) If it were a British ship the resistance to the duty would have been offered by the land merchants
(D) If it had been a British ship the resistance to the duty would have been offered by the land merchants
(E) If it would have been a British ship the resistance to the duty would be offered by the land merchant
Answer: (D)